Maya McDermott '26 Earns Fulbright to Argentina</h1> <article> <h1>Maya McDermott '26 Earns Fulbright to Argentina</h1> <p>dfrezza — Thu, 28 May 2026 19:21:35 +0000</p> <span>Maya McDermott '26 Earns Fulbright to Argentina</span> <span><span>dfrezza</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-05-28T15:21:35-04:00" title="Thursday, May 28, 2026 - 15:21">Thu, 05/28/2026 - 15:21</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><strong>What are you looking forward to the most with your Fulbright? </strong><br>I spent a semester studying abroad in Buenos Aires in the spring of 2025, and absolutely fell in love with the capital city and the country as a whole. I’m thrilled to return to Argentina and potentially experience living in a different part of the country. </p><p>I’m also looking forward to getting to know my students and further immersing myself in Argentine culture. I studied Spanish throughout my entire time at ��سԹ�, so I’m excited to continue to improve my Spanish-speaking skills and live again in a country I’ve come to embrace and deeply appreciate.</p><p><strong>How did ��سԹ� shape or influence you to pursue the Fulbright?</strong><br>My time at ��سԹ� completely informed my decision to pursue a <a href="/news/oberlin-celebrates-years-fulbright-winners" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="b8a20a4f-3b1b-4ee9-8d92-315bcfa3703a" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="��سԹ� Celebrates This Year’s Fulbright Winners">Fulbright,</a> particularly my experience in the SITES program. I learned about SITES through the Hispanic Studies department. While I had little to no teaching experience prior to starting the program, I was interested in working with children and thought it would be an interesting way to practice Spanish outside of the classroom. In SITES, I gained the pedagogical skills to teach to a variety of different ages, as well as learned the challenges and rewards of being an educator. I’ve also worked as a teaching assistant and tutor for HISP 101 and 102 classes in the college. Through this experience, I’ve discovered how much I enjoy working with college students, which is especially exciting as I prepare to do just that during my Fulbright in Argentina.</p><p><strong>How does pursuing the Fulbright align with your post-college life and career goals? </strong><br>While I’m not fully settled on my post-college career path, I’m interested in potentially attending graduate school for public policy with a focus in educational policy. With Fulbright, I hope to deepen my understanding of how a different country approaches issues such as education, governance, and social equity. This experience will allow me to bring to a future role a more global and inclusive approach to policy analysis and development. </p><p><strong>What’s the best advice you’ve received from your ��سԹ� faculty mentor?</strong><br>During my first semester in SITES, I was overcomplicating my lessons to compensate for the anxiety I felt about not being qualified enough to take on this new role. When I expressed this to Professor <a href="/kim-faber" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="3bf3f95e-4137-447b-bead-d8b75fce5941" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Kim Faber">Kim Faber</a>, the founder and head of the SITES program, she reassured me it was okay to feel nervous and trial and error was all part of the process. Through this conversation, I realized my biggest obstacle to becoming a confident teacher wasn’t a lack of qualifications, but self-doubt. <br><br>This moment speaks to the solid and unwavering support I’ve received from professors and mentors throughout my time at ��سԹ� to pursue all of my interests, often in spite of initial hesitation. Later on, when I was first considering applying for a Fulbright, the award’s prestige was intimidating. My friends, family, and several of my professors encouraged me to apply, even when I questioned whether I was qualified for such a competitive opportunity. I’m so grateful for the community at ��سԹ� that has consistently encouraged me to pursue opportunities that genuinely excite me.</p><hr><p><em>If you’re a rising or graduating senior interested in Fulbright, connect with </em><a href="/node/4526"><em>Fellowships & Awards</em></a><em> to learn more about pursuing research or an arts project, obtaining a graduate degree, or teaching English in a foreign country of your choice following graduation.</em></p><p> </p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">The English and politics double major will work as an English Teaching Assistant (ETA) at a teacher-training institution. </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-05-29T12:00:00Z">Fri, 05/29/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Maya McDermott '26 has earned a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship (ETA) to Argentina for the 2026-2027 academic year. At ��سԹ�, the <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/english" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="1407c1dc-ec04-4a04-bf44-267ef8c9c4e1" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="English">English</a> and <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/politics" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="40fd290a-5375-4595-9b23-da92a8bf29d7" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Politics">politics</a> double major took part of the <a href="/arts-and-sciences/resources-and-support/sites" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="f836a21e-8e31-4d3a-b4df-16641967c0fd" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Spanish in the Elementary Schools">Spanish in the Elementary Schools</a> (SITES) program, where she taught Spanish to students in various grade levels at ��سԹ� Elementary School, as well as preschoolers at the Kendal Early Learning Center. McDermott also worked as a tutor for elementary Spanish courses and taught a baking class called SweetsCo through the ��سԹ� Experimental College.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3831">Fulbright</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4080">Fellowships</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2373">Awards and Honors</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/english" hreflang="und">English</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/politics" hreflang="und">Politics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Tommy Chen</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>Momo Song Suzuki ’20 Earns Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship</h1> <p>azaleski — Thu, 28 May 2026 18:35:01 +0000</p> <span>Momo Song Suzuki ’20 Earns Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship</span> <span><span>azaleski</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-05-28T14:35:01-04:00" title="Thursday, May 28, 2026 - 14:35">Thu, 05/28/2026 - 14:35</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Momo Song Suzuki ’20 has earned a <a href="/news/oberlin-celebrates-years-fulbright-winners">Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship (ETA)</a> to Taiwan for the 2026-2027 academic year. The comparative literature and musical studies major will be living and co-teaching English in Hualien, “a city nestled on the east side between the mountain range and the ocean,” they say. “Hualien is known for its natural beauty, so I’m excited to spend a lot of time outside, to go hiking and climbing, and to learn about the local ecology, especially from my students.” <br><br>While at ��سԹ�, Song Suzuki was a radio host on WOBC, a docent at the Allen Memorial Art Museum and member of OSCA in the Pyle Co-op. They were also a writing associate and program note writer at the Cleveland Chamber Choir and participated in orchestra and chamber music ensembles through the conservatory. Song Suzuki also taught in music classes at Prospect Elementary, and facilitated gamelan ensemble for kids from the Lorain City Salvation Army.</p><p><strong>What are you looking forward to the most next year?</strong><br>I’m looking forward most to getting to know my students and to being a part of the community in many ways. I want to volunteer on farms and learn ancestral agricultural practices, talk to elders at farmers markets, and learn more about regional cooking. <br><br><strong>How did ��سԹ� shape or influence you to pursue the Fulbright? </strong><br>At ��سԹ�, getting a Fulbright is made out to be a commonplace thing; it feels like everyone does it. That certainly made it more approachable. But more broadly, the general culture and the professors really support exploration, whether that’s tumbling down a rabbit hole about a certain niche in literature, or learning a new language. I felt supported in my intellectual curiosities and pursuits, and ��سԹ� also gave me the opportunities to ground this in community work. </p><p>Whether working at the Allen, running a music afterschool program at the Salvation Army or teaching at Prospect Elementary, I had so many opportunities to share what I was passionate about, and use my studies to brighten other peoples’ lives as well. </p><p><strong>How does pursuing the Fulbright align with your post-college life and career goals? </strong><br>I just completed my master’s degree in special education with an endorsement in multilingual education. My goal is to eventually return to Seattle and be a special ed co-teacher in an inclusion model context; I would be the teacher focused on altering the instructional environment to meet all students’ needs.</p><p>Doing this Fulbright gives me the unique opportunity to teach beginner-level English. Thinking about how to effectively (and enjoyably) teach foundations like grammar and phonics will prepare me well for integrating these strategies into the American high school classroom context. </p><p>This is important to me because I work with students whose educational needs may not have been met; for example, these students may have reached high school with spotty reading skills. I want to be able to serve newcomer migrant and immigrant students. This is not training that’s readily available in the U.S., so I’m delighted by the opportunity to practice in Taiwan, all while being a beginner-level language learner myself in mandarin.</p><p><strong>What’s the best advice you’ve received from your ��سԹ� faculty mentors?</strong><br>I can’t think of one piece of advice, but overall, my ��سԹ� professors supported me so much by celebrating who I am and honoring my whole humanity, not just my skills as a student. </p><p>The late Professor of Comparative Literature and English Jed Deppman spent extra hours with me nerding out about interarts connections and translation, and gave space in class to pursue passion projects. He showed me that it’s worth pursuing what I’m interested in and encouraged me to see that I have a voice to share. </p><p>Other professors, like <a href="/jennifer-fraser">Jennifer Fraser</a>, let me cry in their office and supported me on a personal level, sharing their own difficult experiences so that I wouldn’t feel alone. I’m so grateful that Jennifer regularly reminded me to take care of myself, vent, laugh, and keep moving forward. </p><p>Professor of Musicology <a href="/charles-mcguire">Charles McGuire</a> was adamant about believing in my intelligence when my self-perception was clouded by imposter syndrome. He leveraged his position in the academy to hold the gate open and enthusiastically usher me in. </p><p>I was also lucky to have a private viola teacher, <a href="/peter-slowik">Peter Slowik</a>, in the conservatory. I think of him often when I’m working on individualizing instruction for my students, as he’s such a problem solver. Getting to have one-on-one time with professors like him, and in office hours, has truly inspired me to be a thoughtful one-on-one support for students. </p><p>I also think that the small, discussion-style classes at ��سԹ� prepared me to be a good discussion facilitator. <a href="/laurie-mcmillin">Laurie McMillin</a> especially held space for vulnerable group conversations connecting the personal with the academic; holding space like that is so much more than just an intellectual skill. She showed me how to bring in your heart and warmth into the classroom to create a safe learning environment for students. Asking probing questions while following students’ leads is my favorite part of teaching high school, and professors like Jed, Laurie, and Jennifer showed me how to be demanding and genuinely excited to hear students’ ideas. </p><p>Former fellowships director Nick Petzak once gave my class the advice that “people who win Fulbrights aren’t just interested in making their own projects better. They’re invested in improving everyone else' s projects along the way.” This really stuck with me and is an ethos I saw across ��سԹ�. It helped me to anchor my work in not just individual success, but in rising all tides. </p><hr><p><em>If you’re a rising or graduating senior interested in Fulbright, connect with </em><a href="/node/4526"><em>Fellowships & Awards</em></a><em> to learn more about pursuing research or an arts project, obtaining a graduate degree, or teaching English in a foreign country of your choice following graduation.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">The comparative literature and musical studies major will be living and co-teaching English in Hualien, Taiwan.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-05-28T12:00:00Z">Thu, 05/28/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4080">Fellowships</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2373">Awards and Honors</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-programs field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=25316">Comparative Literature</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/comparative-literature" hreflang="und">Comparative Literature</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Emerson Ford</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>Derya Taspinar '25 Earns Fulbright to Spain</h1> <p>dfrezza — Wed, 20 May 2026 18:50:23 +0000</p> <span>Derya Taspinar '25 Earns Fulbright to Spain</span> <span><span>dfrezza</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-05-20T14:50:23-04:00" title="Wednesday, May 20, 2026 - 14:50">Wed, 05/20/2026 - 14:50</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><strong>Share with us what you will be doing next year in Spain.</strong><br>From September 2026 to June 2027, I’ll be in Galicia, Spain, as a <a href="/news/oberlin-celebrates-years-fulbright-winners" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="b8a20a4f-3b1b-4ee9-8d92-315bcfa3703a" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="��سԹ� Celebrates This Year’s Fulbright Winners">Fulbright </a>English Teaching Assistant (ETA). I’m really excited to be working in a plurilingual school, where I’ll collaborate with teachers and support students as they learn English. Beyond the classroom, I’ll also be involved in a couple of community projects, giving me the chance to connect more deeply with the local community and take part in cultural and language exchange outside the classroom.</p><p><strong>What are you looking forward to the most?</strong><br>I’m really excited about the whole experience! I can’t wait to live and work in a region of Spain I’ve never been to, and be immersed in its history and culture. I’m also really looking forward to meeting new people, learning from different perspectives, and growing from those experiences. At the same time, I’m excited to share what I know - helping others learn English and improving my Spanish along the way. Being able to learn and give back at the same time is what makes this feel especially meaningful to me.</p><p><strong>How did ��سԹ� shape or influence you to pursue the Fulbright?</strong><br>��سԹ� played a huge role in shaping my decision to pursue Fulbright. I always knew I loved traveling and connecting with people from different cultures. Through my psychology courses, and my own experience being bilingual in English and Turkish, I already understood how important language learning can be. It wasn’t until I took Language Pedagogy 301 with Professor <a href="/kim-faber" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="3bf3f95e-4137-447b-bead-d8b75fce5941" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Kim Faber">Kim Faber</a> that everything really came together.</p><p>Through that class, I joined <a href="/arts-and-sciences/resources-and-support/sites" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="f836a21e-8e31-4d3a-b4df-16641967c0fd" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Spanish in the Elementary Schools">SITES</a> and taught Spanish to kindergarten and first-grade students twice a week. Seeing how quickly they picked up the language was so rewarding. I also learned about the cognitive benefits of language learning at a young age, such as improved executive functioning and greater empathy for people from different backgrounds. While I had done some English tutoring in Spain before, it was through SITES that I learned concrete teaching strategies that motivated students while staying in the target language. That experience really solidified my interest in language education and cross-cultural exchange, and it’s what ultimately inspired me to apply for Fulbright.</p><p><strong>How does pursuing the Fulbright align with your post-college life and career goals?</strong><br>Being a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant is an incredible and meaningful opportunity for me right now. This experience will allow me to work closely with youth in multicultural and multilingual settings while developing skills that are essential to my future work in psychology. Teaching in an immersive environment will strengthen my communication, cultural awareness, adaptability, and ability to build trust and engagement across differences—skills that are central to working with diverse populations. After my time in Spain, I plan to pursue a master’s degree in developmental psychology, and the Fulbright experience provides an important bridge between my academic training and the kind of culturally responsive clinical work I hope to pursue.</p><p><strong>What’s the best advice you’ve received from your ��سԹ� faculty mentor?</strong><br>The piece of advice that has stuck with me the most was from Professor <a href="/cindy-frantz" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="da803d43-c805-4106-86e2-49ffcc49ae53" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Cynthia (Cindy) Frantz">Cindy Frantz</a>, chair of the psychology department. While being one of her research assistants during my senior year, she always made me feel more at ease about life after ��سԹ�. I often felt like my peers all knew what career path they wanted to take right after college, and I felt insecure about not being as certain. Professor Frantz told me about how her life post-undergrad involved many jobs that might not have aligned with her current career, but were all still helpful in getting her to where she is today. She assured me that there was no rush to “figure everything out” now, but to get different experiences, compare and contrast, and to learn more about myself and my interests along the way.</p><hr><p><em>If you’re a rising or graduating senior interested in Fulbright, connect with </em><a href="/node/4526"><em>Fellowships & Awards</em></a><em> to learn more about pursuing research or an arts project, obtaining a graduate degree, or teaching English in a foreign country of your choice following graduation.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">The psychology major will be teaching English in Galicia.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-05-20T12:00:00Z">Wed, 05/20/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>As a <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/psychology" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="382e130d-10dd-4b3d-9e0b-894ba3b1fe62" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Psychology">psychology</a> major at ��سԹ�, Derya Taspinar '25 <a href="/study-away" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="9163cd25-a90f-4576-aac0-a0d8d3818195" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Study Away">studied away</a> in Seville, Spain. Now as a Fulbright fellow, she'll return to Spain to teach English for ten months.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3831">Fulbright</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4080">Fellowships</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2373">Awards and Honors</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/psychology" hreflang="und">Psychology</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>Joel Tang '24 Wins Fulbright Fellowship to South Korea</h1> <p>dfrezza — Tue, 19 May 2026 13:26:18 +0000</p> <span>Joel Tang '24 Wins Fulbright Fellowship to South Korea</span> <span><span>dfrezza</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-05-19T09:26:18-04:00" title="Tuesday, May 19, 2026 - 09:26">Tue, 05/19/2026 - 09:26</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><strong>What are you looking forward to the most?</strong></p><p>Interacting with the soul of the nation, the communities that make up what Korea truly is outside of what we see through their media internationally. </p><p><strong>How did ��سԹ� shape or influence you to pursue the Fulbright?</strong></p><p>As an East Asian Studies minor, I’ve always been interested in interacting with Asia post-graduation. Also, ��سԹ�’s stellar <a href="/study-away" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="9163cd25-a90f-4576-aac0-a0d8d3818195" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Study Away">Study Away office</a> gave me the resources to learn about <a href="/news/oberlin-celebrates-years-fulbright-winners" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="b8a20a4f-3b1b-4ee9-8d92-315bcfa3703a" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="��سԹ� Celebrates This Year’s Fulbright Winners">Fulbright</a>!</p><p><strong>How does pursuing the Fulbright align with your post-college life and career goals? </strong></p><p>My goal is to become an internationally recognized singer-songwriter, and that takes cultural sensitivity and language fluency. I am pursuing this fellowship to aid in my goal of becoming a polyglot, which will help me connect to the Korean audience in ways that English may not. </p><hr><p><em>To learn how ��سԹ� can help you apply for opportunities, like the Fulbright Fellowship, visit </em><a href="/center-engaged-liberal-arts" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="068ff5e8-2a7e-4726-91b0-7d9995d4c79e" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Center for Engaged Liberal Arts"><em>CELA</em></a><em>.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">The young alum from Houston, Texas, will teach English in rural communities.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-05-19T12:00:00Z">Tue, 05/19/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Joel Tang '24, who majored in <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/musical-studies" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="a6dd17c3-7a04-410a-aded-9ced1afd2b4b" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Musical Studies">musical studies</a> and minored in <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/east-asian-studies" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="96d60626-0b66-4943-8cc7-5a8834f0c0c0" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="East Asian Studies">East Asian studies</a> at ��سԹ�, received a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship (ETA) to South Korea. He plans to teach English in rural communities and hopes to organize a poetry/songwriting club at his host school. </p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4080">Fellowships</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2373">Awards and Honors</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3831">Fulbright</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/musical-studies" hreflang="und">Musical Studies</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/east-asian-studies" hreflang="und">East Asian Studies</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Serafina Yan</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>Ariana Ofori '26 Earns a Fulbright to Switzerland</h1> <p>dfrezza — Fri, 15 May 2026 18:01:21 +0000</p> <span>Ariana Ofori '26 Earns a Fulbright to Switzerland</span> <span><span>dfrezza</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-05-15T14:01:21-04:00" title="Friday, May 15, 2026 - 14:01">Fri, 05/15/2026 - 14:01</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><strong>What are you looking forward to the most?</strong></p><p>I am especially excited to share my passion for teaching amongst my students, encouraging curiosity and fostering a space for lifelong learning.</p><p><strong>How did ��سԹ� shape or influence you to pursue the Fulbright?</strong></p><p>My time at ��سԹ� provided me with a variety of teaching opportunities. As both a <a href="/bcsl/programs/ninde-scholars" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="55150ae5-835f-43c3-920b-91388ef32b01" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Ninde Scholars Program">Ninde Scholars Program</a> tutor and a <a href="/arts-and-sciences/resources-and-support/pal">Peer Advising Leader</a> (PAL), these areas deepened my interest in becoming a teacher and helped me make a meaningful impact in both neurotypical and neurodivergent communities. Taking classes in the psychology department also fostered a strong passion for understanding and supporting developing minds.</p><p><strong>How does pursuing the Fulbright align with your post-college life and career goals? </strong></p><p>Once I complete my Fulbright, I plan to pursue a master’s degree and eventually a PhD in child development and education, with a focus on multicultural experiences. I hope to become an educator who builds bridges between schools and communities while effectively addressing students’ diverse learning needs. I also intend to continue traveling and engaging with different parts of the world — aspirations that Fulbright is helping bring to life.</p><p><strong>What’s the best advice you’ve received from your ��سԹ� faculty mentors?</strong></p><p>My mentor, Eric and Jane Nord Associate Professor of Creative Writing <a href="/chanda-feldman">Chanda Feldman</a>, always encouraged me to free write, and trust that the rest will follow. Another mentor, psychology professor <a href="/nancy-darling">Nancy Darling</a>, reminded me while new opportunities may feel challenging, it is important to keep pushing forward. Before I start this opportunity, I plan to continue writing and persevering. These will help me with this subsequent exciting chapter. Regardless of where you might be in life, never forget to cheer yourself on! It does wonders!</p><hr><p><em>Fulbright alumni work to make a positive impact on their communities, sectors, and the world. Connect with </em><a href="/fellowships"><em>Fellowships and Awards</em></a><em> to learn more about how ��سԹ� helps students earn these fellowships.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">The psychology and creative writing double major will head to Europe in September.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-05-18T12:00:00Z">Mon, 05/18/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Ariana Ofori '26 has earned a <a href="/news/oberlin-celebrates-years-fulbright-winners">Fulbright fellowship</a> to serve as an English Teaching Assistant (ETA) in Switzerland for ten months. "During this program, I will teach English to students who, for the most part, will have already completed an apprenticeship," says the <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/psychology">psychology</a> and <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/creative-writing">creative writing</a> double major. "My primary goal will be to help them build confidence in their English grammar and speaking skills." </p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4080">Fellowships</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2373">Awards and Honors</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/psychology" hreflang="und">Psychology</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/creative-writing" hreflang="und">Creative Writing</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>Fulbright Fellow Amelia Friess '26 to Teach in Czech Republic</h1> <p>dfrezza — Mon, 18 May 2026 15:14:18 +0000</p> <span>Fulbright Fellow Amelia Friess '26 to Teach in Czech Republic</span> <span><span>dfrezza</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-05-18T11:14:18-04:00" title="Monday, May 18, 2026 - 11:14">Mon, 05/18/2026 - 11:14</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><strong>What are you looking forward to the most?</strong><br>One reason I chose to apply for a <a href="https://us.fulbrightonline.org/applicants/types-of-awards/english-teaching-assistant-awards">Fulbright</a> in the Czech Republic is because of the access to classical music, particularly opera. I am looking forward to meeting musicians in my community, joining a choir, attending performances, and continuing my personal vocal pursuits. It will be wonderful to be immersed in a place that has such a rich history of classical music. I hope to eventually organize a recital with local musicians involving both English and Czech music!</p><p><strong>How did ��سԹ� shape or influence you to pursue the Fulbright?</strong></p><p>��سԹ�’s exploratory curriculum and supportive professors encouraged me to pursue my aspirations with greater ambition. While I had always hoped to study abroad, I was unsure how to make that goal a reality. Through conversations with voice faculty and fellow students, I learned about the wide range of musical opportunities available in Europe. </p><p>With the guidance of my professors and support from ��سԹ�’s <a href="/career/set/internship-plus" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="9ca131a0-e476-42fe-acdc-1c7cd99a0e19" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Internship+ Program">Internship+</a> program, I participated in an opera program in Saluzzo, Italy, this past summer. This transformative experience opened my eyes to the musical possibilities in Europe and strengthened my confidence in my ability to pursue them. </p><p>In addition, ��سԹ� provided numerous teaching experiences, such as <a href="https://www.oberlinexco.org/">ExCos</a>, peer tutoring and OWLing, that not only strengthened my Fulbright application but also helped me discover my passion for teaching. ��سԹ� equipped me with the tools and encouragement to pursue a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship.</p><p><strong>How does pursuing the Fulbright align with your post-college life and career goals? </strong></p><p>Pursuing a Fulbright ETA aligns with my goals of becoming both a performer and arts educator. Through working with students in the Czech Republic, I'll gain experience planning lessons, explaining concepts, and teaching students who have different backgrounds from my own—all essential elements for a career as a music teacher. Because vocal music is often performed in foreign languages, serving as an ETA will better equip me to guide students in understanding and singing in other languages. </p><p>This will also allow me to experience music in the setting and language in which it was written, deepening my artistic understanding. I also look forward to connecting with professional musicians who can provide advice for my future career. I hope that my time in the Czech Republic will help me become a teacher that shares new musical traditions and encourages students to explore all musical styles. </p><p><strong>What’s the best advice you’ve received from your ��سԹ� faculty mentors?</strong></p><p>As I was working on my short answers and personal statement, I received feedback from family, friends and professors. My former voice professor, Kendra Colton, generously took the time to work through each draft with me. She consistently encouraged me to be honest, clear, and concise, and to seek out new adventures.</p><p>I also worked personally with <a href="/danielle-abdon" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="a0b9a24f-d7db-4538-8b15-16ac871b5857" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Danielle Abdon">Danielle Abdon</a>, the director of fellowships and awards. Her main piece of advice was to “be more specific.” I enjoyed spending every Friday eating pizza and continuing to write draft after draft. I always left meetings with her feeling more capable and prepared to submit my application.</p><p>I do not believe I would have earned this Fulbright without their kind support and dedication. </p><hr><p><em>If you’re a rising or graduating senior interested in Fulbright, connect with </em><a href="/node/4526"><em>Fellowships & Awards</em></a><em> to learn more about pursuing research or an arts project, obtaining a graduate degree, or teaching English in a foreign country of your choice following graduation.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">The biology and voice major will use the award to explore education and her passion for musical performance.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-05-18T12:00:00Z">Mon, 05/18/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p> <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/biology" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="2e8ca96d-493a-456b-b9b1-73583c30df0f" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Biology">Biology</a> and <a href="/voice" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="e5071540-3566-4d0f-a235-2b9e21d42f96" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Voice">voice </a>major Amelia Friess '26 has received a <a href="/news/oberlin-celebrates-years-fulbright-winners">Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship (ETA)</a> to the Czech Republic, where she will teach English at a secondary school. </p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3831">Fulbright</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4080">Fellowships</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2373">Awards and Honors</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/biology" hreflang="und">Biology</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Nathaniel Liu</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>Anna Benjamin '26 Earns Fulbright to Teach English in Spain</h1> <p>dfrezza — Fri, 15 May 2026 15:21:29 +0000</p> <span>Anna Benjamin '26 Earns Fulbright to Teach English in Spain</span> <span><span>dfrezza</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-05-15T11:21:29-04:00" title="Friday, May 15, 2026 - 11:21">Fri, 05/15/2026 - 11:21</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><strong>What are you looking forward to the most?</strong></p><p>I spent my spring semester in Seville, Spain. During my time in Spain I visited nine different cities, but I know that the Canary Islands are going to be completely different. I am beyond excited to emerge myself in a new culture and environment, and am grateful to have the opportunity to continue to use my Spanish. I’ve never lived in a tropical climate and I can’t wait to sit on the beach and see the marine wildlife native to this area. </p><p><strong>How did ��سԹ� shape or influence you to pursue the Fulbright?</strong></p><p>As a Hispanic Studies major I have taken a handful of courses about Spain. Following my time in Seville, I proposed an honors thesis that emerged from the cultural comparison.</p><p><strong>How does pursuing the Fulbright align with your post-college life and career goals? </strong></p><p>I plan to pursue a master's degree in public policy or international development. I want to be a policy analyst, specializing in education or immigration policy. Being an ETA will bolster my knowledge of international education systems, and teaching will get me more direct experience with education. It will also help me build invaluable skills, and make me an internationally oriented policy maker. Immigration is a prevalent policy issue in Spain and especially in the Canary Islands. Engaging with the nonprofits that serve these immigrant communities will broaden my perspective on immigration policy.</p><hr><p><em>If you’re a rising or graduating senior interested in Fulbright, connect with </em><a href="/node/4526"><em>Fellowships & Awards</em></a><em> to learn more about pursuing research or an arts project, obtaining a graduate degree, or teaching English in a foreign country of your choice following graduation.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">After graduation, the politics and Hispanic Studies double major will take her Fulbright fellowship in the Canary Islands.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-05-15T12:00:00Z">Fri, 05/15/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Anna Benjamin '26 has earned a <a href="/news/oberlin-celebrates-years-fulbright-winners">Fulbright</a> English Teaching Assistantship (ETA) to Spain. Along with teaching in the Canary Islands, the <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/politics">politics</a> and <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/hispanic-studies">Hispanic Studies</a> double major plans to volunteer with a nonprofit organization that provides refugee support.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4080">Fellowships</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2373">Awards and Honors</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-programs field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=4796">Hispanic Studies</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=25416">Politics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/hispanic-studies" hreflang="und">Hispanic Studies</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/politics" hreflang="und">Politics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Abe Frato</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>Luke De Carlo-McCann ’26 Wins ��سԹ�'s 2026 Nexial Prize</h1> <p>azaleski — Wed, 13 May 2026 23:24:42 +0000</p> <span>Luke De Carlo-McCann ’26 Wins ��سԹ�'s 2026 Nexial Prize</span> <span><span>azaleski</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-05-13T19:24:42-04:00" title="Wednesday, May 13, 2026 - 19:24">Wed, 05/13/2026 - 19:24</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Luke De Carlo-McCann ’26 is the 2026 recipient of ��سԹ�’s Nexial Prize, which is awarded to a graduating STEM major who has demonstrated excellence across disciplines and a serious pursuit of the study of culture. </p><p>Throughout his college career, De Carlo-McCann’s <a href="/node/3361">geosciences</a> and <a href="/node/3436">anthropology</a> studies have taken him to Alaska, where his collaborative research focuses in and around the Sitka area, particularly on intertidal fieldwork and ecology. </p><p>His research is a long-term project involving California mussels; it “investigates how changing environmental and climatic conditions are recorded in [their] shells … and what this means for the stability of the species and those who rely on it as a traditional source of food into the future,” he says. </p><p>By tracking the growth of mineral crystals in these shells, De Carlo-McCann can record ocean changes and climate variations over time. “For thousands of years, this edible species has remained integral to the culture, economy, and diet of Indigenous coastal communities,” he says. “My work emphasizes the impacts these changes have on the growth of this species and the human communities that depend on it as a source of food.” </p><p>Across this research work, De Carlo-McCann emphasizes the value of communication and community. In collaboration with the Sitka Sound Science Center and Native Sitkans, he conducted fieldwork in Sitka and helped bring research into public spaces through local radio conversations geared toward non-STEM listeners. These discussions framed ocean acidification through the cultural and ecological significance of shellfish. </p><p>“I spent time in conversation with community members about what shells mean in their lives – as tools, foodways, and relationships to place – incorporating those perspectives into how I frame and share my findings," De Carlo-McCann says. “These experiences have led me to approach research as a collaborative process that connects scientific knowledge with community contexts and concerns.”</p><p>Associate Professor of Anthropology <a href="/amy-margaris">Amy Margaris ’96</a>, who’s known De Carlo-McCann since his first year, praises him as a “humanistic scientist” who translates scientific insights for general audiences while engaging with Native Alaskan knowledge and perspectives on shellfish ecology alongside his laboratory research.</p><p>“Increasingly Native people are calling on scientists to listen to their stories, the knowledge that they’ve gleaned in making a living in a particular place for thousands of years,” she says. “Luke is part of the newer generation who’s listening to these calls for inter-cultural collaboration in efforts to heal the earth and has the holistic training and outlook to be effective at it.”</p><p>De Carlo-McCann’s research has been supported by multiple funding sources, including ��سԹ�’s <a href="/career/set/internship-plus">Internship+ program</a> via the ��سԹ� Summer Research Institute (OSRI); a Western Society of Malacologists James H. McLean Student Grant in Collections-Based Research; and awards from the Richard ’63 and Karen Cowan ’63 Ford Endowed Anthropology Fund and the Abbie Helene Roth ’90 Science Research Fund. He has also earned a prestigious <a href="/news/luke-de-carlo-mccann-26-receives-goldwater-scholarship-continue-fascinating-research">Goldwater Scholarship</a> and is a <a href="/news/connecting-science-across-disciplines-and-environments">CELA Award nominee</a>.</p><p>In addition to his research work, De Carlo-McCann has served as a committee member on the Arctic Research Consortium of the United States (ARCUS). Upon graduation, he’s heading back to Alaska, this time as a biological science technician with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. His plans for the Nexial Prize award complement this work; De Carlo-McCann is looking to develop a community-engaged model of environmental research across Alaska, working in Sitka, Kodiak, and communities across the Aleutian Islands with local schools and tribal organizations. </p><p>“A central focus would be hosting open community dialogue events, creating space for locals to share observations about intertidal ecosystems and shifting coastal conditions, and incorporating these perspectives into how research is understood and applied,” he says. “Similarly, I would use radio interviews as a way to invite people into conversations around intertidal ecology, creating opportunities for collaboration grounded in local experience and knowledge.”</p><p>Building on intertidal field programs he previously developed for K–12 students, De Carlo-McCann also plans to continue creating opportunities to educate the next generation of scientists. “Students would engage in hands-on observations of intertidal communities, using species surveys of macroalgae, shellfish, and crustaceans to better understand ecological change in their local communities,” he says. “The funding I’ve received supports travel to remote communities and provides field gear so that all students can participate.”</p><p>In the end, De Carlo-McCann traces a significant amount of this success back to the liberal arts education he received at ��سԹ�. “[This education] has taught me that the Earth is more than physical processes unfolding across deep time – it is a lived and experienced world,” he says. “Coastlines sustain food systems, glaciers shape water security, and ecosystems hold cultural memory. At ��سԹ�, I learned to frame environmental questions in ways that connect these dimensions, so my research into these complex Earth systems is legible beyond scientific audiences.”</p><hr><p><em>Connect with </em><a href="/fellowships"><em>Fellowships and Awards</em></a><em> to learn more about opportunities available to ��سԹ� students.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">After graduation, the geosciences major and anthropology minor is working for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and continuing his collaborative community work</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-05-13T12:00:00Z">Wed, 05/13/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Office of Communications</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2373">Awards and Honors</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-programs field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=25366">Geosciences</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=24656">Anthropology</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/geosciences" hreflang="und">Geosciences</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/anthropology" hreflang="und">Anthropology</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>��سԹ� Celebrates This Year’s Fulbright Winners</h1> <p>dfrezza — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 16:46:39 +0000</p> <span>��سԹ� Celebrates This Year’s Fulbright Winners</span> <span><span>dfrezza</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-04-28T12:46:39-04:00" title="Tuesday, April 28, 2026 - 12:46">Tue, 04/28/2026 - 12:46</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><strong>��سԹ�’s tradition as a top producer of Fulbright students continues this spring, with a dozen students and alumni being awarded English Teaching Assistant (ETA) or Study/Research (S/R) awards.</strong> These accomplished individuals will travel internationally to experience a cultural exchange that spans language, education, history, and more. </p><p>��سԹ� <a href="/fellowships">provides students with assistance in Fulbright applications</a>, which includes multiple information sessions, one-on-one meetings, access to faculty and staff experts trained to read Fulbright applications, all-day essay support in ��سԹ�’s Writing Center, and the ability to submit essay drafts for unlimited revisions.</p><p>The Fulbright Program is a distinguished academic exchange program, established by the U.S. government in 1946. Since then it has provided more than 400,000 talented students, scholars, and professionals the opportunity to advance knowledge, education practices, and industry through international exchange and collaboration.</p><p>This year’s Fulbright winners can’t wait to see what’s in store for them. </p><p>As a Hispanic studies and politics major, <a href="/news/anna-benjamin-26-earns-fulbright-teach-english-spain"><strong>Anna Benjamin ’26</strong></a> is using her fellowship to kickstart her career aspirations. “I want to be a policy analyst, specializing in education or immigration policy,” she says. “Being an ETA will bolster my knowledge of international education systems… and help me build invaluable skills to become an internationally-oriented policy maker.”</p><p><a href="/news/fulbright-fellow-amelia-friess-26-teach-czech-republic"><strong>Amelia Friess ’26</strong></a>, who graduates in May with double majors in biology and voice, looks forward to immersing herself in Czech culture: “Pursuing a Fulbright ETA aligns with my goals of becoming both a performer and arts educator. Because vocal music is often performed in foreign languages, serving as an ETA will better equip me to guide students in understanding and singing in other languages. I hope that my time there will help me become a teacher that shares new musical traditions and encourages students to explore all musical styles.” </p><p><a href="/news/joel-tang-24-wins-fulbright-fellowship-south-korea"><strong>Joel Tang ’24</strong></a>, a college music major while at ��سԹ�, will use his Fulbright award to teach English in South Korea and says he is excited to “interact with the soul of the nation, the communities that make up what Korea truly is outside of what we see through their media internationally.”</p><p><a href="/news/derya-taspinar-25-earns-fulbright-spain"><strong>Derya Taspinar ’25</strong></a> will teach English in Spain to support her career goals: "This experience will allow me to work closely with youth in multicultural and multilingual settings while developing skills that are essential to my future work in psychology. Teaching in an immersive environment will strengthen my communication, cultural awareness, adaptability, and ability to build trust and engagement."</p><p><a href="/news/ariana-ofori-26-earns-fulbright-switzerland"><strong>Ariana Ofori ’26</strong></a> is set to work with students who have completed apprenticeships and help them hone their language skills for their careers. "I am especially excited to share my passion for teaching amongst my students, encouraging curiosity and fostering a space for lifelong learning," she says. </p><p>In addition to teaching English in Taiwan, <a href="/news/momo-song-suzuki-20-earns-fulbright-english-teaching-assistantship" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="9d049751-ab0f-46ca-9950-02853e65349c" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Momo Song Suzuki ’20 Earns Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship"><strong>Momo Suzuki '20</strong></a> is excited to get to know students and become "a part of the community in many ways," they say. "I want to volunteer on farms and learn ancestral agricultural practices, talk to elders at farmers markets, and learn more about regional cooking."</p><p><a href="/news/maya-mcdermott-26-earns-fulbright-argentina" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="360e786f-055e-40c8-a0f6-0fdc65966a1c" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Maya McDermott '26 Earns Fulbright to Argentina"><strong>Maya McDermott '26</strong></a> hopes this fellowship will help prepare her for a new chapter in graduate school: "With Fulbright, I hope to deepen my understanding of how a different country approaches issues such as education, governance, and social equity."</p><p>Congratulations to all of the the Fulbright fellows from ��سԹ�:</p><p>Anna Benjamin ’26, ETA (Spain)</p><p>Nissa Berle ’24, S/R (Canada)</p><p>Katia Chapin ’26, S/R (European Union)</p><p>Lucas Daley ’26, S/R (India)</p><p>Amelia Friess ’26, ETA (Czech Republic)</p><p>Nathaniel Liu ’26, ETA (Taiwan)</p><p>Ariana Ofori ’26, ETA (Switzerland)</p><p>Eleanor Richards ’26, ETA (Madagascar)</p><p>Dalia (Andy) Roshal ’26, ETA (Germany)</p><p>Momo Suzuki ’20, ETA (Taiwan)</p><p>Joel Tang ’24, ETA (South Korea)</p><p>Derya Taspinar ’25, ETA (Spain)</p><p>Maya Miller '26, S/R (Ireland)</p><p>Thorin Finch '26, S/R (Ireland)</p><p>Sophia Cartsonis '24, ETA (Taiwan)</p><p>Maya McDermott '26, ETA (Argentina)</p><p><em>Note: This story will be updated as further details are released. </em></p><hr><p><em>Fulbright alumni work to make a positive impact on their communities, sectors, and the world. For more information about the Fulbright Program, visit </em><a href="https://www.fulbrightprogram.org/"><em>fulbrightprogram.org</em></a><em>.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Congratulations to the 16 students and alums who have been awarded Fulbright Fellowships to learn and teach abroad.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-04-28T12:00:00Z">Tue, 04/28/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Danielle Frezza</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4080">Fellowships</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2373">Awards and Honors</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3831">Fulbright</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Ariana Ofori '26 is one of this year's Fulbright English Teaching Assistant awardees.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Abe Frato</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-flex-content field--type-entity-reference-revisions field--label-hidden vertical-spacing--basic field__items"> <div class="field__item"> <div id="obj-50533" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-cont-img-section paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="o-flex--basic-copy basic-copy"> <div class="image-grid image-grid--single-caption pull"> <div id="obj-50532" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-image-row paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="image-row"> <div class="image-row__images" data-cols="2"> <div id="obj-50530" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-figure paragraph--view-mode--default"> <figure> <figcaption> <div class="figure__caption"><p>Amelia Friess '26</p></div> <div class="figure__credit"><p>Photo credit: Nathaniel Liu</p></div> </figcaption> </figure> </div> <div id="obj-50531" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-figure paragraph--view-mode--default"> <figure> <figcaption> <div class="figure__caption"><p>Joel Tang '24</p></div> <div class="figure__credit"><p>Photo credit: Serafina Yan</p></div> </figcaption> </figure> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div id="obj-50927" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-image-row paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="image-row"> <div class="image-row__images" data-cols="2"> <div id="obj-50926" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-figure paragraph--view-mode--default"> <figure> <figcaption> <div class="figure__caption"><p>Derya Taspinar '25</p></div> <div class="figure__credit"><p>Photo credit: Fairlyn Decker & Hazel Livingston</p></div> </figcaption> </figure> </div> <div id="obj-50928" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-figure paragraph--view-mode--default"> <figure> <figcaption> <div class="figure__caption"><p>Anna Benjamin '26</p></div> <div class="figure__credit"><p>Photo credit: Abe Frato</p></div> </figcaption> </figure> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>��سԹ� Students Earn Top National and International Awards</h1> <p>kviancou — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 15:49:15 +0000</p> <span>��سԹ� Students Earn Top National and International Awards</span> <span><span>kviancou</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-04-28T11:49:15-04:00" title="Tuesday, April 28, 2026 - 11:49">Tue, 04/28/2026 - 11:49</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><strong>��سԹ� College students and recent graduates have once again earned national and international recognition for their academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to global engagement. </strong></p><p>This year’s fellowship and scholarship recipients reflect the breadth of ��سԹ�’s academic strengths—from the sciences and public policy to languages, the arts, and research—while continuing the college’s longstanding tradition of preparing students to lead and serve in a complex, interconnected world.</p><p>Across a wide range of highly competitive programs, ��سԹ� students and young alumni have secured awards that will support language study, graduate education, public service, and independent research. Among the most prestigious global graduate awards, <a href="/news/chudi-martin-jr-24-earns-prestigious-gates-cambridge-scholarship">Chudi Martin ’24 was named a <strong>Gates Cambridge Scholar</strong></a>, which funds full postgraduate study at the University of Cambridge, while <a href="/news/leo-hidy-23-earns-2026-marshall-scholarship">Leo Hidy ’23 received a <strong>Marshall Scholarship</strong></a> to pursue graduate study in the United Kingdom. Upcoming May graduate <a href="/news/where-land-meets-art-maya-miller-26-awarded-2026-thomas-j-watson-fellowship">Maya Miller ’26 will visit four continents with her <strong>Watson Fellowship</strong></a>, which provides a year of independent travel and research outside the United States.</p><p>��سԹ� continues to be a top producer of <a href="/news/oberlin-celebrates-years-fulbright-winners"><strong>Fulbright Fellowships</strong></a>. This spring, 29 ��سԹ� applicants were named semi-finalists; so far, 12 have received the award and four have been named alternates. While final acceptance decisions are pending for some, honorees include <strong>Fulbright Study/Research</strong> awardees Nissa Berle ’24 (Canada), Lucas Daley ’26 (India), and Katia Chapin ’26 (European Union), as well as <strong>Fulbright English Teaching Assistant</strong> awardees Joel Tang ’24 (South Korea), <a href="/news/camp-classroom-supporting-diverse-learners" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="04f68e56-3a75-452b-bc8f-724577ef5b6b" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="From Camp to Classroom: Supporting Diverse Learners">Ariana Ofori ’26</a> (Switzerland), Amelia Friess ’26 (Czech Republic), <a href="/news/bridging-art-environment-and-public-service-through-cela">Nathaniel Liu ’26</a> (Taiwan), Momo Suzuki ’20 (Taiwan), Anna Benjamin ’26 (Spain), Andy Roshal ’26 (Germany), Derya Taspinar ’25 (Spain), and Eleanor Richards ’26 (Madagascar). </p><p>��سԹ�’s strength in the sciences is also clear: <a href="/news/zosia-greer-27-earns-goldwater-scholarship-neuroscience-research">Zosia Greer ’27 earned a <strong>Goldwater Scholarship</strong></a>, one of the nation’s most prestigious undergraduate awards in STEM fields. And two Obies—<a href="/news/advancing-ai-accessibility-and-policy">Tanisha Shende ’26</a> and <a href="/news/ella-halbert-23-wins-2026-national-science-foundation-award" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="1be4c9dd-673c-4e78-aebc-04d20dc8ee33" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Ella Halbert '23 wins 2026 National Science Foundation Award">Ella Halbert ’23</a>—received awards from the <strong>National Science Foundation’s Graduate Research Fellowship Program</strong>.</p><p>Obies were also recognized for excellence in public policy and service. <a href="/news/nuclear-policy-combat-sports-and-rock-and-roll-lucas-daley-26-forges-his-own-path">Lucas Daley ’26 was selected as a <strong>James C. Gaither Junior Fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace</strong></a> and will work in the Russia and Eurasia program starting in the fall. Daley’s multiple recognitions include a <strong>Critical Language Scholarship</strong> for Hindi study in India this summer, which he has accepted, as well as a <strong>Fulbright Study/Research Award</strong> and a <strong>Boren Scholarship</strong>.</p><p><a href="/news/leah-yonemoto-weston-24-named-nyc-urban-fellow">Leah Yonemoto-Weston ’24 was named to the <strong>NYC Urban Fellows Program</strong></a>, gaining hands-on experience in New York City government. And <a href="/news/chhavi-singh-27-wins-projects-peace-award-work-india">Chhavi Singh ’27 received a <strong>Projects for Peace</strong></a> grant to support a grassroots woman's health initiative in India.</p><p>Andy Roshal ’26, in addition to landing a Fulbright ETA, also earned a <strong>DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) Scholarship</strong> and a <strong>USTA (Austrian Teaching Assistantship) Fulbright Fellowship</strong> to teach English in Austria. <a href="https://www.shansi.org/sophie-qano-bio">Sophie Qano ’24</a>, currently a Shansi Fellow, was selected for an <strong>Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree Scholarship</strong> and will pursue the Social Psychology of Transformation program across Germany, Portugal, Italy, and Albania.</p><p>Finally, this was an exceptionally competitive year for <a href="https://www.shansi.org/news-blog/introducing-the-2026-shansi-fellows"><strong>��سԹ� Shansi Fellowships</strong></a>, which are two-year post-graduate opportunities in Asia for Obies. Eight students and alumni were selected for international service and cultural exchange in fields ranging from environmental justice and public health to education and international diplomacy: <a href="https://www.shansi.org/news-blog/welcoming-the-2026-shansi-fellows-to-china">Kayla Kim ’25</a> (China), <a href="https://www.shansi.org/news-blog/welcoming-the-2026-shansi-fellows-to-china">Nathaniel Liu ’26</a> (China), <a href="https://www.shansi.org/news-blog/announcing-the-2026-shansi-fellows-to-india">Zoe Meister ’26</a> (India), <a href="https://www.shansi.org/news-blog/announcing-the-2026-shansi-fellows-to-india">Hannah Behroozi ’25</a> (India), <a href="https://www.shansi.org/news-blog/introducing-the-2026-shansi-fellows-to-indonesia">Molly Davis ’26</a> (Indonesia), <a href="https://www.shansi.org/news-blog/introducing-the-2026-shansi-fellows-to-indonesia">Kisa Biely ’26</a> (Indonesia), <a href="https://www.shansi.org/news-blog/meet-the-2026-shansi-fellows-to-japan">Bennett Elder ’24</a> (Japan), and <a href="https://www.shansi.org/news-blog/meet-the-2026-shansi-fellows-to-japan">Ellie Hyde ’26</a> (Japan).</p><p>Together, these achievements represent dozens of Obies earning recognition from the most selective programs in the world. Beyond the numbers, these awards reflect a shared commitment to academic rigor, cross-cultural understanding, and meaningful impact—values that continue to define an ��سԹ� education.</p><p><em><strong>Note: </strong>Final results from some programs are pending; updates will be added to this story.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">With major wins like the Marshall, Goldwater, and Fulbright, dozens of Obies are setting off to pursue cutting-edge research, graduate study, and public service around the world.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2026-04-28T12:00:00Z">Tue, 04/28/2026 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Office of Communications</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2373">Awards and Honors</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> </main></body></html>