Guardian Scholars Fund
The Guardian Scholars Fund is a program that supports former foster youth who are pursuing their dreams of study abroad with UCEAP. Unlike most college students, Guardian Scholars do not have families on whom they can rely for simple things that other students take for granted, like a place to store their belongings while abroad.
Our most recent Guardian Scholar - Xandria Romei - spent the semester at the University of Queensland (banner photo above taken by student):
"My experience in Australia hasn’t just shaped my academic direction—it’s made my long-term goals clear and, with persistence, attainable. I want to contribute to marine and coastal research and apply that work to larger systems: policy, international collaboration, and environmental restoration. This year, I’ve started stepping into those worlds, and I can’t imagine turning back. My lifetime work will be a contribution to a more ecologically compassionate Earth. I will use the experience I’ve been empowered with to protect the oceans, the forests, and the creatures—including humans—who depend on them. Thank you again for making this life-changing opportunity possible. Your support was a catalyst to me stepping into myself; I’m so grateful. - Xandria Romei
UCEAP believes international academic experience is more important than ever and we are committed to providing access to all students who want to study abroad. Will you give a gift in support of our Guardian Scholars Fund this year? No gift is too small – it is your participation that’s important. Sign up to be a monthly donor (see tab on giving form) and receive a free UCEAP t-shirt!
Tiara Francisco (left) was the first recipient of the UCEAP Guardian Scholar award. Tiara spent the 2016-17 year abroad at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. After UCEAP, Tiara returned to California, graduated from UCSB, and now works with foster youth in San Luis Obispo.
On behalf of all our students, thank you for your continued support.
Help us reach our goal!
I want to extend a warm thank you for your generous gift of the 2025 UCEAP Guardian Scholarship. I am overwhelmed by your generosity and filled with joy by what this means I can pursue. As donors, I can feel your empathy for this desire and admire your giving hearts. I wholeheartedly believe in giving back to others, especially those who are in the places you came from or going to places you’ve been. Now I’m 23 and dreaming of being like you when I grow up! Thoughtful, generous, empathetic, and making the world a better place by supporting others’ ability to dream, learn, and travel. With a full heart and much gratitude
Xandria
UC San Diego | Australia | Marine Biology & Terrestrial Ecology
I think the most personally significant thing that I learned about the world was that while people come from all over and have different beliefs and occupy their own corners of the world, fundamentally people are incredibly open and kind. I found that even when I was not similar to people or did not agree with them, there was still a channel of understanding. It reminded me upon my return home to be more open to new experiences and the unexpected and to not be so hasty to judge others.
Lien
UCLA | Scotland | 2022 Guardian Scholar