For the ninth time in 10 years, Swarthmore is among the top producers of U.S. Fulbright students, with seven recent alumni receiving the honor with the College’s support.

“The Fulbright grant gives our alumni opportunities to fully immerse in a place and culture, while pursuing their academic and professional goals,” says Melissa Mandos, Swarthmore’s fellowships and prizes adviser, who guides the Fulbright application process along with faculty members of the Committee on Fellowships and Prizes. “It is an experience they carry with them throughout their lives, as they build personal and professional relationships that continue even after they return to the U.S.”

Of the 24 students and alumni who applied, 13 became semifinalists, and seven went on to receive the grant. An additional candidate was named as an alternate. This year, Ana Curtis ’19, Molly Erdman ’23, Carlee Marquez ’23, Emma Lee Miller ’21, Gabriel Straus ’23, Devika Subedi ’23, and Harry Yeung ’23 received grants through Swarthmore’s endorsement.

“Swatties are curious, intellectually ambitious, and eager to expand their worldview,” says Mandos. “These are qualities that resonate with the Fulbright Program.” 

The Fulbright U.S. Student Program is designed to “increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries” and encourages collaboration in developing ideas and addressing international concerns. Fellowships are awarded to American students, young professionals, and artists through a national merit-based competition for study, research, or teaching English abroad.

A reception to celebrate the 2023 Fulbright Top Producing Institutions will be held on February 20 in Washington, D.C., during the Association of International Education Administrators (AIEA) annual conference.