The decision to study abroad often stems from a desire for growth, understanding, and adventure. For Morganne Percevault, one of the three recipients of the prestigious Ambassador Marilyn McAfee Study Abroad Scholarship, it was all of this and more. With a lifelong curiosity about cultural differences and a passion for international business, Morganne chose France as her destination – a choice deeply rooted in her heritage, personal interests, and professional aspirations.
“I’ve always been fascinated by living abroad,” Morganne shared. “I’m driven by a desire to understand people who are different from me.” Living in France was not her first experience with cultural immersion. In high school, Morganne participated in a Rotary Youth Exchange program in Lithuania, an experience that gave her an early taste of culture shock and taught her the resilience needed to adapt. Moving to France presented its own set of challenges, but with years of experience living abroad, Morganne has grown to feel more home in Paris than in the United States. During her time in Paris, she had the unique opportunity to witness the city preparing for and hosting the Olympic Games or Les JO en francais. “The energy and diversity were incredible,” Morganne shared. “The city buzzed with an international atmosphere, and it was amazing to witness firsthand.”
The challenges and rewards of studying abroad have significantly shaped Morganne’s personal and professional outlook. As she nears the completion of her master’s program in September 2025, she plans to stay in Europe, particularly in Paris, to continue exploring her passions and building on the community she has cultivated. Morganne also emphasized the importance of forming connections while abroad, advising future students to build a strong support system before embarking on extensive travel. “Having a solid ‘home base’ community makes all the difference in adjusting to life abroad,” she said.
Morganne’s transformative journey would not have been possible without the support of the Ambassador Marilyn McAfee Study Abroad Scholarship. Named in honor of the former Council Chairman Ambassador Marilyn McAfee, this scholarship is designed to alleviate the financial burdens that often come with studying abroad, ensuring that students like Morganne can pursue their international educational dreams. To the scholarship sponsors, Morganne shared her gratitude: “The Marilyn McAfee Scholarship allowed me to experience firsthand the nuances of cross-cultural communication – something you can only truly learn through practice.”
Morganne’s journey is just one example of how this investment is changing lives and shaping the futures of the upcoming generation.
To learn more about the Ambassador Marilyn McAfee Scholarship and ways to support our education programming, please click here!
