Fabiola Ramirez-Diaz

2025 Gilman Scholarship Recipient

Hometown

Gurabo, Puerto Rico

Major

Animal Sciences

College

College of Agriculture

 

Established in 2001, the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program is committed to sending American students of limited financial means from all backgrounds to study abroad.

 

Preparing for a future career in veterinary medicine, Fabiola Ramirez-Diaz was awarded the Gilman Scholarship to pursue professional development through a Pre-Vet Experiential Internship in Costa Rica. Fabiola sought to accomplish several goals in choosing a study abroad program from gaining hands-on work experience with wildlife species to exploring a wide range of veterinary experiences, including clinical, conservation, and emergency medicine. Fabiola was drawn to the biodiversity and emphasis on conservation that one finds in Costa Rica, where she looks forward to shadowing professionals who treat exotic animals. At Purdue, Fabiola prepared both inside and outside the classroom to succeed on a summer study abroad program. Pursuing a concentration in pre-veterinary medicine, Fabiola not only honed her critical thinking skills and understanding of veterinary medical concepts, but also gained laboratory experience and volunteered in the Cardiology Department at Purdue’s Small Animal Hospital.