University students win scholarships to study in China, Tanzania

Two University of South Carolina students, both from Virginia, have won National Security Education Program (NSEP) Boren scholarships for study abroad during the 2008 - 09 academic year.

Daniel Mathieu of Midlothian will spend his sophomore year studying in China, and Amanda Jean Tatum of Richmond will be studying in Tanzania her junior year.

Mathieu, a graduate of Midlothian High school and a member of the South Carolina Honors College, is pursuing a major in interdisciplinary studies. He will spend his academic year at the University of Nanjing studying Chinese, in preparation for a career involving linguistics. Mathieu is the son of Jill and Mike Mathieu of Midlothian.

Tatum, also a member of the South Carolina Honors College, is majoring in international studies and will study Swahili at Knowledge Exchange Institute. She is pursuing a career in public relations for either the State Department or a nonprofit international organization. Tatum is the daughter of Nelle Pender of Fripp Island, S.C., and Edward Tatum of Richmond.

The NSEP David L. Boren Scholarships provide U.S. undergraduates with resources and encouragement for acquiring skills and experience in countries and areas of the world critical to the future security of the nation. This year, NSEP granted 150 scholarships for undergraduates from 697 applications nationwide. The maximum year-long award is $20,000.