Two graduates from the Class of 2025 have earned coveted Fulbright grants, empowering them to teach English abroad next year.

Emma Gabriel ’25 and Brandon Xu ’25 received English Teaching Assistantship (ETA) grants to Spain and France, respectively.

Fulbright grants are bestowed “to encourage collaboration between citizens of the U.S. and those of other countries to develop ideas and address international concerns.” With its vast academic focus, including the social sciences, humanities, arts, and natural sciences, the Fulbright program emphasizes cultural exchange and promotes mutual understanding.

An additional graduate from the Class of 2025 earned an ETA to Spain, but declined in order to attend graduate school, says Melissa Mandos, fellowships and prizes advisor. Three other classmates have been named as Fulbright Alternates. 

This year’s Swarthmore grantees:

Emma Gabriel ’25, who majored in history at Swarthmore, received an English Teaching Assistantship to Spain.

“After studying abroad in Spain in 2023, I am so excited to return as a Fulbright ETA grantee! This opportunity speaks to my interests in education and policy, and I look forward to immersing myself in Galician culture, enjoying the beautiful landscapes, and learning and growing alongside my students. I’m sure that this opportunity will leave me with lifelong memories and friendships.”

Brandon Xu ’25, who majored in philosophy at Swarthmore, received an English Teaching Assistantship to France.

“I first began learning French after being amazed by the French films I saw through [Associate Professor of French Carina] Yervasi's course on the French New Wave. I am super excited to spend a year in France deepening my engagement with French language and culture while teaching English.”