Michael Eschmann, a junior at Palmer Trinity School (PTS), has received The Experiment in International Living Scholarship.
The Experiment has been providing immersive experiential learning programs abroad since 1932. It has had more than 70,000 participants and remains a leader in the field of international cross-cultural education for high school students. Michael recently learned about the award while on a service trip to Haiti.
“Part of what makes Michael so exceptional is what he did after his first trip to Haiti with Palmer Trinity faculty member Mr. Raul Gonzalez and a group of fellow PTS students,” said Laura Massa, chair of the History and Humanities Department. “In 2014, he developed a project to lead a another medical trip to Haiti and raised enough funds to cover the expenses for three doctors as well as collected a significant number of medical supplies. This past week he returned from his third trip, this time accompanied by three female doctors.”
Dr. Manjula Salomon, Palmer Trinity School’s associate head of school for academics and an alumna of The Experiment in International Living, said, “This scholarship has been designed for students with a focus on global health. Michael is the perfect candidate as he has shown serious interest in intercultural leadership, global issues, and civic engagement.”
“There are exceptional, intrepid students who dare to take chances despite their youth — Michael Eschmann is one of them,” said Patrick Roberts, head of school.
Michael will participate in an intensive four-day leadership seminar in Washington, DC, followed by a four-week-long training in India focusing on public health, activism, and community development. To enhance his experience, Michael will spend two weeks with an Indian family in a homestay modality.
