Michelle Moreau has emerged as the winner of an Edinburgh Napier University contest after the shortlisted entries were put to an online public vote.
Applicants for the Destination Edinburgh Scholarship were asked to submit a 90-second pitch video explaining what made Edinburgh a successful tourism destination.
Keen traveller Michelle, 24, from Portsmouth, New Hampshire, was already a huge fan of the city and jumped at the chance to highlight its attractions.
The video which won her a scholarship valued at $16,000 focused on the scenic views, parks, museums and festivals in a city “full of passion and passionate people”.
Michelle said she was “elated” to have come out on top in a contest which attracted tens of thousands of voters.
“Edinburgh is my favourite city in the world, and when presented with the chance to make a video about why it is a successful tourism destination I leapt at the opportunity.
“I studied abroad in Edinburgh while pursuing my undergraduate degree, and spent four months living in the city and learning its ins and outs. I returned last spring for some time to visit, tour and spend time with friends who live in the city.
“I have been a traveller all of my life, and the MSc in International Tourism Management at Edinburgh Napier is going to be a perfect fit.
“I am very excited about moving back to Scotland and beginning my Master’s programme in September.”
The makers of the three runner-up videos also receive a £2000 reduction in international fees to study a tourism Master’s at Edinburgh Napier; Shelly Scofield of Provo, Utah; Shannon Ho of Alhambra, California; and Mary Kristen Lee of Mobile, Alabama.
The Destination Edinburgh Scholarship was open to Americans hoping to come to Edinburgh Napier for a year to study for a tourism-focused Master’s degree.
As the competition winner, Michelle will also enjoy a programme of cultural activities across Scotland and get the chance to share her experiences online as the University’s International Brand Ambassador.
Claire Hope, Edinburgh Napier’s International Partnership Manager for the Americas, said: “Increasing numbers of students from the USA are expressing interest in our one-year Master’s, and this popular and exciting competition has made that dream a reality for Michelle.”