The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Aline Abayo has been awarded a full-time research internship at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in Washington, D.C.
Abayo is a senior integrated sciences major, with a concentration in agricultural economics, from Kigali, Rwanda. She is a member of the University Honors Program and the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources’ Undergraduate Scholars Program, a unique exchange program that has supported Rwandan students in studying priority topics identified by the Rwandan Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources.
Abayo’s passion for international economics and agriculture policies was inspired by her research on coffee pricing economics, conducted under the guidance of Lia Nogueira, associate professor of agricultural economics. Her undergraduate experience has included opportunities to develop research skills, including her service as a Clayton Yeutter Institute Student Fellow, a Bureau of Business Research Scholar and research assistant at the University of Nebraska Public Policy Center. Her project “Effects of Changing Rainfall Patterns on Soil Nutrients and Crop Yield” also received support from the Undergraduate Creative Activities and Research Experiences program.
“Aline’s story demonstrates the success of our efforts to engage all UNL undergraduates in the co-creation of knowledge,” said Amy Goodburn, senior associate vice chancellor and dean of undergraduate education. “The N2025 Strategic Plan prioritizes experiential learning to prepare our students to address critical issues facing Nebraska and the world. We hope that many UNL students will be inspired by Aline’s path to success.”
As a James C. Gaither Junior Fellow in the Africa Program, Abayo will explore economic, social and political factors that shape the Africa region today. She is especially interested in understanding issues related to climate change, trade agreements and investments. Per the Carnegie Endowment, the Africa program helps “regional and international policy actors strengthen their contributions to a prosperous and stable African future.”
Gaither Junior Fellows provide research assistance to scholars working within Carnegie’s research programs. The fellowship program provides a substantive work experience for students who have a serious career interest in international affairs, including opportunities to conduct research for publication and to participate in meetings and briefings with government officials. About 13 interns are selected for the nationally competitive program each year.
Participating institutions are invited to nominate applications from graduating seniors or recent alumni. At Nebraska, the Office of National and International Fellowships advises and nominates undergraduate candidates for 30 supported scholarships and fellowships. To learn more, students and campus community members may contact Courtney Santos, director of national and international fellowships, at courtney.santos@unl.edu.
