Frida Montano

2025 Gilman Scholarship Recipient

Hometown

Libertyville, IL

Major

UX Design

College

Purdue Polytechnic Institute

 

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.

 

Frida Montano was awarded the Gilman Scholarship to pursue her research in digital security and civic technology in the United Kingdom. When she discovered an interest in exploring how design can address societal needs during a semester-long project with Microsoft, Frida chose a Maymester that offers a Digital Civics program. Frida is motivated to engage with students and faculty at Northumbria and Newcastle Universities, where she will be challenged to integrate the voices of citizens into the design process. Aspiring to work in an organization that handles sensitive information, Frida was drawn to this opportunity for professional development abroad, including workshops and panels that provide a window into this industry. Neither is she afraid to test her public speaking skills during a final project presentation. With a minor in psychology, Frida brings an understanding of empathy to her work and seeks personal growth that comes with listening to others through the study abroad experience. At Purdue, Frida supports social media through her local chapter of Sigma Lambda Gamma, and she will share a follow-on presentation through the national newsletter.