A May Grad Advances to a Year in Cambodia through a Fulbright Award

ALBANY, N.Y. (June 16, 2022) — Shortly after her May UAlbany graduation, Maya Lee followed up her outstanding academic career with a lifelong wish fulfilled. The summa cum laude (3.98 GPA) double major was notified she’d been selected by the Fulbright Student Program for its English Teaching Assistantship (ETA) program in Cambodia for 2022-23.

“Since I was a little kid, I’ve always known that I wanted to travel and explore the diversity that the world has to offer,” said Lee, a Political Science and East Asian Studies double major with a concentration in Global Politics. “When I learned about the Fulbright Program in college, I jumped at the chance to apply.”

Lee envisions personal growth through ETA program study, instruction, cultural and personal interaction. “To me, the program provides an amazing opportunity to push myself out of my comfort zone, exchange cultures, learn new languages and create lasting connections,” she said. “I hope that by participating in the Fulbright Program, I am able to help create a more empathic and global world and to share my views and values with other young people.

“I am especially excited to have the opportunity to go to Cambodia. I have been interested in Cambodia’s history and politics since I was in high school, and I am thrilled that I will have the opportunity to experience the country’s vibrant culture in person. I am also so excited to continue expanding my knowledge of Asia and to connect with new communities.”

Fulbright applications for 2023-24 are now open and those interested should contact Jacqueline Quevedo Ledermann, assistant director of Global Academic Programs and International Fellowships and Scholarships.