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Student David Pozo. DAVID POZO / COURTESY  

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Leyla J. Mercado Features Editor / Assistant Social Media Editor

Manhattan University (MU) student David Pozo, a senior criminology major with a minor in computer science, has received the U.S. Department of State’s prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship. This is a program that is federally funded to provide financial support to U.S. undergraduate students who face limited financial means in order to study or intern abroad.  

Selected through a competitive application process, applicants are additionally assessed on how their experience abroad will contribute to their academic, professional and community goals.

Pozo, who felt the scholarship was representative of access and not having to choose between financial responsibility and academic opportunity, spoke to The Quadrangle about his initial emotions when he found out he was a recipient of the scholarship.  

“When I found out I had been selected as a Gilman Scholar, my first reaction was honestly disbelief,” Pozo said. “I had originally put in my application without putting too much thought into it and just thought, why not? Once it really sank in, I felt a mix of pride, relief and gratitude. This wasn’t just a personal win for me. It felt like validation of the work I’ve put in navigating college with limited financial resources and staying committed to my goals, even when the path wasn’t always straightforward.”  

In addition to his own reflections, members of the MU faculty also acknowledged Pozo’s academic achievements and character. 

Madeline Novich, Ph.D., an associate professor of sociology at MU, wrote to The Quadrangle about Pozo’s persona and work ethic. 

“David is a hardworking, dedicated and serious student with a genuine passion for criminology,” Novich wrote to The Quadrangle. “He consistently demonstrates strong preparation, focus and intellectual curiosity in the classroom. David exemplifies the goals of the criminology program through his deep commitment to understanding the many facets of criminal justice from a scholarly and empirical perspective.”  

She further referenced his very broad range of interests, consisting of law enforcement, juvenile justice and contemporary ethical challenges. He approaches each with enthusiasm and critical engagement while remaining an engaged student who is eager to learn and grow. 

“The criminology program is a rigorous, cutting-edge program that prepares students to think critically, write at a graduate level and analyze advanced empirical research,” Novich wrote. “These skills position students well to compete for prestigious scholarships and to succeed in demanding academic and global learning environments.” 

Pozo currently has plans to study abroad in Argentina. He was initially drawn to the country due to its complex social history, the country’s roots and cultural norms.  

“While abroad, I’m looking forward to gaining firsthand exposure to a different justice system and expanding my understanding of Latin American society through immersion beyond the classroom,” Pozo said.  

Kelly Marin, Ph.D., department chairperson of social and behavioral sciences and professor of psychology, spoke on what it means for Pozo to receive this scholarship within this department.

“I think it represents the amazing things that our students are doing and the opportunities that our students have,” Marin said. “Our students are great. The thing about our students is that they have a lot of curiosities and really do a great job at bridging some of their interests.”

Marin also spoke to how Pozo has distinguished himself academically as well as professionally in order to receive this honor. 

“One thing that really stands out are his curiosities… he has a lot of different interests, and he’s really taken advantage of a lot of different opportunities at the university but also outside of the university,” Marin said. “Obviously, he is a really great student and pursues a lot of different opportunities and gets them, which is great.”

Pozo feels that the Gilman Scholarship makes this opportunity possible for him by removing financial barriers that he would have otherwise faced. He has made it evident that due to this scholarship and his efforts, he can focus on his academic growth rather than financial stress, with hopes that this experience with study abroad shapes his future by strengthening his commitment to studying justice through a global lens. 

“I am incredibly proud of David,” Novich wrote to The Quadrangle. “I hold him, and all of my students, to very high standards of academic performance, ethical behavior and professionalism. Because of that, while I am proud, I am not surprised by this accomplishment.” 

For Pozo, the significance of this achievement lies in the influence he leaves on other students like himself. 

“I hope my achievement shows other students, especially those from underrepresented or financially limited backgrounds, that opportunities like this are attainable,” Pozo said. “Studying abroad and receiving national scholarships can feel out of reach, but they aren’t reserved for a select few. I want other students in criminology and the social sciences to see that they should pursue opportunities that push them beyond their comfort zone.” 

*Sarah Rolka contributed to reporting.