A chance for an ambitious Bermudian to potentially reach employment at the the very highest levels of international business is being offered through a Masters degree scholarship offered at one of the world’s leading universities for risk management studies.

Worth $40,000 a year, the scholarship is the fruit of a link-up between Georgia State University and Association of Bermuda International Companies (ABIC).

It is the next logical step for ABIC which for the past 27 years has offered under-graduate studies to Bermudians to help them gain the academic learning and certificates to step into the Island’s booming business sector, something that is ongoing alongside the new initiative.

Now for the first time a post-graduate scholarship is being offered leading to study on an MBA or MSc programme at the Georgia State University’s insurance and risk management facility.

The university’s Professor Lorilee Schneider is in Bermuda for the next few days to interview some of those who have already applied and to encourage others to take advantage of the opportunity.

“Ours is an urban university in Atlanta, which is an international hub that has attracted international business,” she said, pointing out the university’s risk management department is considered amongst the world’s top five.

“I believe we have something to offer Bermudian students who come for a year or a year-and-a-half and specialise.”

The university has strong links with risk management companies globally and in Bermuda, another bonus for a successful student looking for leads and contacts to secure top-level employment afterwards.

The scholarship on offer is particularly suited to an insurance or financial services industry employee who already has an undergraduate degree. However, the person does not have to have an undergraduate degree in a specific subject, as long as they have a genuine interest in pursuing a career in the arena of risk management.

ABIC executive director Richard Winchell said: “We have Bermudians in international business but not at the highest level. This is a great chance to enhance their career opportunities.”

The deadline for applications for the new scholarship award is April 15. Students interested in meeting Dr. Schneider, who leaves the Island on Sunday, can do so if they are quick and contact Elaine Williams on 295-8932 or e-mailing to info[AT]abic.bm

Information about ABIC’s scholarship schemes can be found on it’s web site www.abic.com