» Academics » Fellowships
What kinds of students have received these awards, and how did their experience impact them?
What is the application process really like?
Students of diverse backgrounds and disciplines apply for these awards. They dedicate months of time and effort in preparing their applications for these prestigious and life-changing opportunities. Northwest students have seen marked success with these fellowships, but even those who do not receive an award still have learned about themselves through the process. The skills, knowledge and drive gained through the application experience have helped students get accepted into graduate school, Peace Corps, and other opportunities that have enriched their lives.
“This has been the best professional development opportunity that I could have ever imagined for myself.”
Kayla Etherton
Psychology & Spanish, 2013 | TESOL, 2018
As a soccer player at Northwest, Sara Worsfold waited until after graduation to pursue her international interests. She put her elementary education degree to good use at Obchodná Akadémia in Žilina, Slovakia where she taught English for one year as Fulbright ETA. Upon completing her Fulbright experience, Sara spent several months in Cambodia working as a Leadership Resident for the Harpswell Foundation.
Following her study abroad semester in Costa Rica, Northwest graduate Kayla Etherton knew she wanted more international experience. She received a Fulbright ETA and put her bachelor's degrees in psychology and Spanish and her master's degree in TESOL to work in Hungary. Kayla spent a year in Budapest advising students and teaching English at a university.
Matthias McCurren graduated from Northwest with a master’s degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). He received a Fulbright ETA in 2018 and taught English at a university in northeastern Brazil. In addition to a teaching commitment, Fulbright ETA recipients develop programs outside of the classroom to support their experience. Matthias is a musician and incorporated his passion for American music into his lessons, teaching English and American culture through lyrics.
On her blog, Kayla Etherton describes what she calls her "Year of Courageousness" and gives advice for first-generation college students on how to pursue a Fulbright
