(Posted May 3, 2023)

Taylor Metz '23

Taylor Metz '23

HUNTINGDON, Pa. ­— Taylor Metz, a Juniata College senior from Oaklyn, NJ, studying International Politics with a secondary emphasis in Spanish, has received a Fulbright English Teaching Award to Spain.

Metz will teach elementary students in the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago off the coast of northwestern Africa.

“Traveling and international studies are important because they make me feel more connected to the global community,” said Metz. “Being able to form relationships with those I have met abroad has taught me that we can all find common ground.”

Metz has studied abroad in Sevilla, Spain, at Universidad Pablo de Olavide and will also be traveling to Mexico for a short-term study abroad course taught by Dr. Emil Nagengast, Professor of Politics and International Studies. On campus, Metz serves as Global Village Program Coordinator, Class of 2023 Vice President, Study Abroad Club Treasurer, and Spanish Club Officer.

“The Fulbright program started in the aftermath of World War II, it grew during the Cold War, and it continues on today, expanding the boundaries of research, knowledge, and sharing English as a foreign language in partner nations,” said Dr. James Tuten, Charles R. and Shirley A Knox Professor of History and Juniata’s Fulbright Adviser. “At its heart, though, this prestigious honor is about people connecting and creating bonds across international borders and cultures. Our Fulbright scholars grew through their experiences, and with today’s technologies, they maintain the friendships they build for decades.”

Metz learned about the Fulbright from her adviser, Dr. Amy Frazier-Yoder, associate professor of Spanish and Chair of World Languages and Cultures.

“Dr. Frazier-Yoder recommended that I think about applying for a Fulbright and encouraged me to begin teaching ESL (English as a Second Language) classes over the summer to prepare,” said Metz. “Dr. Nagengast, Dr. Tuten, and Dr. Frazier-Yoder were my biggest supporters on campus while applying, as well as my roommates and family, who cheered me on throughout the process.”

Metz’s career aspirations include working with immigrants.

“A goal of mine is to work along the Mexican border with migrants or to go to law school and practice immigration law eventually,” said Metz.

The Fulbright English Teaching Assistant (ETA) programs place individuals in classrooms abroad to assist local English teachers. ETAs help teach the English language while serving as cultural ambassadors for the U.S. The age and academic level of the students varies by country, ranging from kindergarten to university level. Applicants for English Teaching Assistant Programs can apply to only one country.

Contact April Feagley at feaglea@juniata.edu or (814) 641-3131 for more information.