Three University of Southern Mississippi students have been awarded a prestigious study abroad scholarship from Phi Kappa Phi, an honor society promoting academic excellence and service.

The students include Suzanna Ellzey, a sophomore biochemistry major from Hattiesburg; Ruth Poe, a junior history and psychology double major from Vicksburg; and Alexis Smith, also a junior history and psychology double major, from Oak Grove.

Another Southern Miss student, junior Christie Reynolds of Valley Grande, Ala., was chosen as an alternate in the event one of the others students is unable to participate. All four are students in Southern Miss’ prestigious Honors College

The three recipients were among just 50 from across the country chosen for the $1,000 awards, which require applicants have at least a grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale; a minimum of 30 and maximum of 90 completed academic credit hours; and attend an institution with a Phi Kappa Phi chapter.

“As a graduate of Southern Miss, I’m proud to see my alma mater have such great success with Phi Kappa Phi’s major awards,” said PKP Chapter Relations Director Jim Carlson. “In a year that was extraordinarily competitive, Southern Miss had a fellowship winner, three study abroad recipients and a study abroad runner-up. These five students should be applauded for their outstanding efforts.”

Study abroad grant winners must also have at least two semesters remaining in their home institution after studying abroad, and participate in a study abroad program between May 1, 2009 and June 30, 2010.

Ellzey will participate in this summer’s British Studies program, where she will take a medical history class and learn about changing medical practices dating back to the medieval period.

“After spending a month in London learning about medical practices, my goal is to use this experience as a foundation for my career in the medical field,” Ellzey said. “I also hope that the magnificent places and attractions I see will spark new research interests and professional ambitions I had never considered or thought of before.”

Poe enrolled in the British Studies program last summer, and this year will take part in the Vietnam Study Abroad Program. “Going to London last year was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” she said. “I learned more about World War II then I would have inside a classroom because I got to see where it all happened, and that makes history come alive.

“Aside from the academics, studying abroad made me a much more open minded, understanding person. I grew more in that month (in London) than in my first year in college.”

Like Poe, Smith studied in London last year and will go to Vietnam this summer, which will aid her in completing her honors thesis on the cultural effects of post-traumatic stress disorder in both American and Vietnamese combat veterans. The opportunity, she said, will provide her with research resources that would otherwise by unavailable.

“I wish every student had the opportunity to study abroad,” Smith said. “Going to London last year changed my perspective on both learning and life. I not only became a more independent person, but I also learned to appreciate the vast history and knowledge the world has to offer.”

For more information about these and other scholarships, contact Southern Miss Officer of National Scholarships and Fellowships Robyn Curtis at 601.266. 4263; for more information about Southern Miss Study Abroad Programs, call International Education at 601.266.4344.

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About The University of Southern Mississippi
The University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, is a comprehensive doctoral and research-extensive university fulfilling its mission of being a leading university in engaging and empowering individuals to transform lives and communities.  In a tradition of leadership for student development, Southern Miss is educating a 21st century work force providing intellectual capital, cultural enrichment and innovation to Mississippi and the world.  Southern Miss is located in Hattiesburg, Miss., with an additional campus and teaching and research sites on the Mississippi Gulf Coast; further information is found at www.usm.edu.