Meredith Student Chosen for Fulbright Program

Meredith College senior Katelyn Smith has received a Fulbright U.S. Student Program grant for 2016-17. The grant will support her participation in Fulbright’s nine-month English Teaching Assistantship program in Mexico.

At Meredith, Smith has majored in Spanish and international studies, and completed minors in religious and ethical studies and biology. Recipients of Fulbright grants are selected on the basis of academic or professional achievement, as well as demonstrated leadership potential in their fields.

“I chose to apply for the Fulbright over other programs because of its mission to form bonds of peace and understanding between countries through cultural exchange,” Smith said.

After completing the Fulbright, Smith will begin a master’s degree in Spanish at NC State University as she works toward her goal of becoming a Spanish professor. Her Fulbright experience will bolster her teaching credentials.

“I’m looking forward to the cultural exchange and also gaining experience in a classroom in another country so I can really have a diverse lesson plan portfolio when I come back and be able to connect with different students,” Smith said.

Smith is appreciative of the support she has received from Meredith College.

“I want to thank all the faculty and staff at Meredith. Sometimes I try to imagine if I would have gone to another university, if I would be the student I am today, but overall the woman that I am today, and I don’t think I would be,” Smith said. “Meredith has really strengthened me, and given me all the tools I need in life.”

The Fulbright Program is the flagship international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government and is designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries. The primary source of funding for the Fulbright Program is an annual appropriation made by the U.S. Congress to the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Participating governments, host institutions, corporations, and foundations in foreign countries and in the United States also provide direct and indirect support. The Program operates in more than 160 countries worldwide.

Photo shows Smith presenting her research during Celebrating Student Achievement Day.