Mauricio Gonzalez has become the first University of North Georgia (UNG) student to be selected for the Douglas-O'Connell Internship in Ireland. He was one of 12 students selected from more than 600 applicants.

The Douglass-O'Connell Internship is a fully funded, eight-week internship program in Dublin, Ireland. Students learn about Irish history and culture while enjoying lectures on the history of social change, attending networking activities and interning at a host company. The internship itself is named for two social reformers: American Frederick Douglass and Irishman Daniel O'Connell.

Gonzalez, a sophomore from Gainesville, Georgia, pursuing a degree in political science, completed a U.S. Department of Agriculture internship in Washington, D.C., between his freshman and sophomore years, and he won a Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship to study in France before that trip was canceled.

He credits Dr. Bibek Chand, associate professor of Political Science and International Affairs and a faculty fellow in the Nationally Competitive Scholarships (NCS) office, for helping him grow during his time as a student.

"He taught me to think critically about everything," Gonzalez said. "In his classes, he really emphasizes the importance of diplomacy."

Chand said Gonzalez excels in his scholarship applications because of his strong story-telling ability. The faculty member fully expects Gonzalez to be successful in his future endeavors.

"He's very good at engagement and nuanced in his analysis," Chand said. "He reads between the lines very well. You need that if you want to work in public service."

Gonzalez works with multiple student groups on campus. He serves as social director for Nighthawks Entertainment at UNG's Gainesville Campus, is a part of the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) and is a student worker for the High School Equivalency Program.

"Mauricio is driven by a desire to apply his academic knowledge in real-world settings and gain valuable career skills. He actively seeks challenging opportunities that push him beyond his comfort zone, recognizing their importance for professional development, network building and resume enhancement," David G. Michener, director of Student Involvement, said. "His time in Ireland will allow him to develop international soft skills and provide the enriching experience of immersing himself in a new culture and connecting with a diverse community.

Danielle Eafford, CAMP director, said Gonzalez's interview with CAMP before coming to UNG was one of her early indicators of his mentality. He answered a question about what it felt like to get an A in a class by saying it's what he expects.

"Because of his determination, Mauricio knows he is capable of great work," Eafford said.

Eafford said "his spirit and his tenacity" come from Gonzalez's mother, and as a First-Generation college student, it's clear what motivates the sophomore.

"I really want to make my parents proud," Gonzalez said.

Students interested in applying for nationally competitive scholarships should contact the NCS office at ncs@ung.edu. Those interested in studying abroad should contact the Center for Global Engagement at global@ung.edu.