Scholarship Recipients 2023/24

What does this scholarship mean to you?

“I am deeply honored to be awarded the Dalai Lama Graduate Scholarship. With my MPH training in Epidemiology from Stanford University and experience at Men-Tsee-Khang’s Research & Development Department, I am equipped to advance Tibetan Sowa-Rigpa research globally. This opportunity allows me to contribute to preserving our cultural heritage through my unique experiences and expertise.”

Tenzin Sangmo
Masters, Public Health, Rutgers University
Scholarship recipient 2023-24

“I’m deeply honored to receive the Dalai Lama Graduate Scholarship, recognizing His Holiness’s vision. This opportunity is both a blessing and a reminder of my duties as a Tibetan. As I train to become a clinical psychologist, I aim to develop culturally informed therapy, particularly for minority communities, and advance mental health research within our diaspora community.”

Tsering Yangdol
PhD, Clinical Psychology, City College of New York
Scholarship recipient 2023-24

“I’m deeply honored to receive the Dalai Lama Graduate Scholarship and grateful for the Gaden Phodrang Foundation’s support of young Tibetan students like myself. My undergraduate studies in International Relations inspired my pursuit of a legal education, driven by a personal and communal commitment to creating access and opportunity for Tibetan communities. As I begin my JD, I aim to empower Tibetans in the United States through legal pathways, fostering empowerment for others worldwide.”

Tenzin Yigha
JD, Human Rights Law, Berkeley Law School Berkeley
Scholarship recipient 2023-24

“I am profoundly grateful and humbled to accept the Dalai Lama Graduate Scholarship, as His Holiness’s blessings empower me to realize my dreams and work for Tibet and the Tibetan people in the future. Pursuing an MSc in China in Comparative Perspective at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) holds significant importance for two main reasons: firstly, China’s prominent role in today’s world and its future influence in global power dynamics; and secondly, as a Tibetan, I believe that a profound understanding of China is essential for resolving the conflict between China and Tibet.”

Drukthar Gyal
MSc China in Comparative Perspective, London School of Economic (LSE)
Scholarship recipient 2023-24

“I completed my Master’s in Theoretical Physics at the University of Madras and taught at TCV Selakui. Now in my second year of the PhD program in Quantum Information and Networking at Stony Brook University, I am honored to be selected for the Dalai Lama Graduate Scholarship for the 2023/2024 academic year. This opportunity will greatly support my journey towards becoming an influential experimental physicist and inspiring Tibetan youth in the field.”

Tsering Lodhen
PhD, Physics, Stony Brook, New York
Scholarship recipient 2023-24

“Currently pursuing an MA in Education at the University of Toronto’s Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, I’m inspired by the multidisciplinary approach of my department. Specifically, the combination of Sociology of Education with Political Science, Indigenous Studies, and critical pedagogy holds immense potential for application in the Tibetan context. Deeply honored to receive the Dalai Lama Graduate Scholarship, this funding will alleviate financial pressures, allowing me to focus on completing my studies successfully.”

Namlha
MA, International Education, University of Toronto
Scholarship recipient 2023-24

“Truly honored to receive the scholarship as I pursue my MS in Information at the University of Michigan, renowned for its digital archives and preservation program. Drawing from my diverse experiences in libraries, museums, and archives, my goal is to influence the future of cultural institutions collecting materials on Tibet. Grateful for the scholarship’s support, I’m excited to join a cohort dedicated to serving the Tibetan community across various fields and industries.”

Tara Yudon Dorje
MS, Information, University of Michigan
Scholarship recipient 2023-24

“I’m deeply honored and grateful for the Gaden Phodrang Foundation’s investment in my medical education. I’m also thankful for the support of my family, friends, and mentors. Witnessing health inequities within Tibetan populations, both in America and abroad, has motivated me to investigate the determinants impacting access to comprehensive healthcare. As a future physician, I aspire to serve underserved populations and advocate for affordable healthcare.”

Tsering Chozom Shola
MD, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta
Scholarship recipient 2023-24

“I’m a PhD candidate at McGill University specializing in Tibetan Abhidharma psychology. Honored to receive the Dalai Lama Graduate Scholarship, I hold an MA in Asian Studies from the University of British Columbia. My journey began at Vikramashila Buddhist Institute in Nepal, and I’ve since transitioned from monastic life to share my expertise internationally. This scholarship is crucial for completing my dissertation and fulfilling His Holiness’s aspirations, as I aim to promote inner values and contribute to contemplative science.”

Tsultrim Gyatso
PhD, Tibetan Abhidharma, McGill University
Scholarship recipient 2023-24

“As a Massachusetts public school teacher for nine years, I’ve taught over 200 students in math, reading, STEAM, and social studies. I’m thrilled that Tibet is now part of our second-grade curriculum. After earning my Master’s in School Counseling, I aim to continue this work, thanks to the support of the Dalai Lama and the Gaden Phodrang Foundation.”

Samphel Bayul
MA, School Counselling, University of Massachusetts Boston
Scholarship recipient 2023-24