Scholarship Broadens Horizons

Mary Keegan, '14, Business Administration/Spanish

Mary Keegan says Flagler College has given her more opportunities in just one year than she could have ever imagined. Keegan was able to travel to Costa Rica for five weeks thanks to the Unger Family Study Abroad Scholarship.
The scholarship was established in 2008 to “recognize a student’s pursuit of excellence by broadening his or her educational and life experiences beyond borders.”

Brian and Jacki Unger, parents of Rachel Unger, ‘06, say “We are proud and honored to support a student’s desire to ‘experience the world’ while he or she pursues a world-class education at Flagler College.”
Keegan said it’s the extra support provided by the scholarship, and alumni in general, that gave her an extra edge.

“The Flagler community and alumni are all such great and generous people and continue to return to Flagler to give back to the students through scholarships and personal one-on-one meetings,” Keegan said.

While in Costa Rica, Keegan was able to develop her Spanish language skills. She says the trip led her to change her Spanish minor to a major; she will also earn a degree in business administration.

“Because of this trip, I know that Spanish is in my future,” Keegan said. “And I wouldn’t have had this incredible experience if it weren’t for Flagler College and the Unger Scholarship.”

Keegan says she will never forget her opportunity to study abroad. “I learned more in five weeks in Costa Rica than I learned in the 10 years that I have been taking Spanish classes,” she said. “I am so grateful to the Unger Family for giving me such an amazing opportunity and an experience that I will remember forever.”

Keegan is a member of Spanish Cultural Club, the Student Government Association, and serves on the executive board of Phi Alpha Omega, Flagler’s women’s community service organization.

“Be faithful in the small things, because it is in them that your strength lies.” — Mother Teresa