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Morgan Basil, a 2022 graduate in Spanish and Psychological Science from Alvaton, is WKU’s third Fulbright US Student Program grantee of the 2023-24 award year. Morgan has been awarded an English Teaching Assistantship for Spain. 

The Fulbright US Student Program offers full funding for graduating seniors and recent graduates to spend an academic year abroad in English Teaching Assistantships or conducting research or creative projects that may or may not be part of a postgraduate degree program.  

Morgan’s first experience with Spanish culture came via friendship with a Spanish exchange student at South Warren High School, which sparked a curiosity in international perspectives that led her into learning Spanish, volunteering abroad in Honduras, working with English language learners in after-school programs. In the summer of 2022, Morgan was finally able to study abroad in Segovia. Morgan says, “I absolutely fell in love with Spain and have spent my time since finding ways to return.” 

The application process itself was a rewarding journey. Morgan says, “With the help of a wonderful advisor, through thought-provoking and self-reflective prompts, I have learned more about myself through this process than I have in a long time.” 

Assisting in English language classrooms in Spain will allow Morgan to practice her deep values of connection and empathy while helping students gain valuable language skills. A Psychological Science major focusing on clinical preparation, Morgan says, “Understanding human psychology and what makes us similar to one another on levels closest to our core selves will help me connect to individuals who are culturally different. Wherever I find myself after Fulbright, I know that I will continue my journey of learning from diverse sources.” 

Students and recent alumni interested in the Fulbright US Student Program are encouraged to contact Melinda Grimsley, WKU’s Fulbright Program Advisor.  

About the Fulbright Program: 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. Recipients of Fulbright grants are selected on the basis of academic or professional achievement, as well as demonstrated leadership potential in their fields. The Program operates in over 160 countries worldwide. 

About the Office of Scholar Development: The Office of Scholar Development mentors students applying for national scholarships to fund “academic extras” such as study abroad, research, professional experience, and more. From first drafts to final submissions with multiple revisions in between, OSD helps students make more possible. By conceptualizing and revising the stories they tell in application essays and interviews, students better understand their strengths, interests, and purpose—and explore multiple possible pathways to that work.