Gilman Scholarship Spotlight: Naelyn Carrasco ’24

Naelyn Carrasco, a Purchase College Bachelor of Science in Visual Arts graduate, received the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, allowing her to study abroad in Benin, West Africa.

Naelyn first learned about the Gilman Scholarship from Purchase College’s Office for Global Education, where she was guided and supported throughout the application process. “I wasn’t sure how I would afford the trip, but I knew I had to go,” she said. “The scholarship made it possible, and I’m so grateful for that.”

Naelyn has always been interested in West African culture, especially its visual arts, textiles, and music. “I also have roots in West Africa, and I felt really drawn to go there at some point in my life,” she shares.

With the goal of becoming an art therapist, she enrolled in a cultural psychology course to expand her knowledge of how art and mental health overlap. Studying cultural psychology abroad broadened her perspective on human connection, identity, and artistic expression, all of which influenced her career goals in art therapy. Much of the coursework was completed outside of the classroom, through hands-on experiences such as working with local artists and community members.

Naelyn’s experience exceeded her expectations. “I knew this would be a pivotal moment in my life, but I didn’t anticipate how deeply it would change me,” she confesses. “From the simple things, like feeling the moist heat and watching the ocean waves, to meeting incredible people, the experience impacted me in ways I never imagined.”

One of the most moving experiences of her journey was visiting the Door of No Return, a historical site that served as a major departure point for the transatlantic slave trade. “Being there, knowing I was likely the first person in my family to return to Africa, was incredibly emotional,” she reflects.

Looking Ahead

Since being back, Naelyn has been inspired to incorporate her experiences into her artistic work, which led her to create a book art project that reflects on her time in Benin. Copies of the book are now available in Purchase College’s Office for Global Education and Multicultural Center. She wants to incorporate African textiles and cultural elements into future projects and is thinking about applying for a Fulbright program to continue her research and artistic practice in West Africa.

Naelyn’s experience has given her a greater sense of confidence and global awareness. “I feel more equipped to travel abroad for both academic and professional reasons,” she shares. “I would love to go back to Benin or a neighboring country,” she says. “I’m curious about what kind of work I’ll be inspired to create and the collaborations I could pursue with local artists and communities.”

Her story demonstrates the transformative power of studying abroad, and she encourages other students to seize these opportunities. To students considering applying for the Gilman Scholarship, Naelyn advises: “Start early. Do your research and reach out to the Office for Global Education as soon as possible. The earlier you begin, the less overwhelming it will be alongside your classes.”

Written by: Jo-Emma Felix ’26