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Juniata Graduate Receives Fulbright English Teaching Award to Spain
(Posted May 22, 2026)
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Nate Weick '26 rode a camel while exploring Morocco as part of his study abroad experience.
Nate Weick '26 rode a camel while exploring Morocco as part of his study abroad experience.
HUNTINGDON, Pa. — Juniata College 2026 graduate Nate Weick, of Cinnaminson, N.J., has been awarded a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship to Spain. He recently completed a degree in professional writing and Spanish/Hispanic cultures, graduating summa cum laude. A standout on and off the field, Weick was also a member of Juniata’s varsity men’s soccer team.
“Living life is like reading a book. If you stay in one place your whole life, it's like only reading one chapter,” Weick said. “I am a multiculturalist, and one of my life goals is to experience as many lifestyles and cultures as possible to be able to determine the parts of each one that suit me the best.”
Taking advantage of study abroad opportunities as an undergraduate, Weick immersed himself in Spanish language and culture, building the skills and perspectives that will guide his next steps after Juniata.
“My study abroad experience at Juniata showed me that I can figure out any challenge life throws at me,” said Weick, who spent a semester abroad in Spain in 2025.
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.
“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, who is the Charles R. and Shirley A Knox professor of history and the Fulbright adviser at Juniata. “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.”
Weick was encouraged to apply for the Fulbright by his advisors and several faculty members, including Amy Frazier-Yoder, Sedgley Thornbury Professor of Spanish and Chair of World Languages and Cultures.
He looks forward to building new relationships with students, coworkers, and fellow Fulbright recipients in his new role.
“I want to engage in a career that allows me to constantly travel and meet new people while continuing to use and improve my Spanish, bridging the gap between English and Spanish-speaking culture,” Weick said. “Teaching English as a secondary language to native Spanish speakers does just that. I have been learning Spanish since first grade, and I don't intend to stop any time soon.”
Contact April Feagley at feaglea@juniata.edu or (814) 641-3131 for more information.