WKU News

Natalie Webb, a WKU senior studying anthropology and international affairs, has been awarded a fellowship from Princeton in Asia.  After graduating from WKU this spring, Webb will teach English at Payap University in Chiang Mai, Thailand, for a year beginning May 30.

Founded by Princeton University in 1898, PiA aims to increase mutual appreciation and cultural understanding by connecting service-minded U.S. graduates to partner organizations in Asia for immersive work experiences.  The prestigious program sponsors over 150 fellowships in 21 countries for recent college graduates and young alumni. 

Webb is the daughter of Lisa and William Webb of Louisville. She previously studied abroad at Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea, during the spring 2017 semester. She said her semester in South Korea was a transformative experience that encouraged her to pursue post-graduate opportunities abroad.

“I don't have everything figured out, but I know I am capable of growing so much and influencing real people's lives through this program,” Webb said. “Hopefully one day I can use my experience to influence foreign policy for the better.”

In addition to international study, Webb also sought out academic rigor and faculty mentors who contributed to her success in national scholarship competitions. 

“Natalie, in a short period of time, has truly developed a broader international perspective on politics, and this should serve her well in Thailand,” Dr. Timothy Rich, associate professor in the WKU Department of Political Science, said.

Webb worked with Cory Dodds, coordinator of nationally competitive opportunities in the Office of Scholar Development, in preparing her PiA application.

“Natalie is the third WKU student to be selected for this honor,” Dodds said. “I am certain that Natalie will represent WKU well internationally and will return to the United States prepared for an international career as a result of her work in Thailand.”

 “I am positive that without the Office of Scholar Development I would never be where I am; I might not have even applied at all,” Webb said. “Their assistance has made all the difference, and I can't stress enough how valuable they've been to me.”

About the Office of Scholar Development: The Office of Scholar Development is committed to helping WKU students in all majors and degree programs develop the vision, experience and skills to be independent, engaged scholars. OSD welcomes the opportunity to work with students interested in nationally-competitive scholarships.

Contact: Cory Dodds, (270) 745-5043