University of Dayton senior Elizabeth Pedrotti wins Fulbright honor

2017 Apr 26

University of Dayton senior Elizabeth Pedrotti of New Lebanon, OH, won a scholarship as part of a Fulbright program and is headed abroad as an English teaching assistant.

Pedrotti, an English major and Italian minor, received a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant (ETA) scholarship.

Pedrotti will venture to Malaysia to teach in a middle school classroom and serve as a conversation partner and liaison between American and Malaysian culture.

"The Fulbright experience will force me to become a better decision maker, a stronger leader and a more empathetic and adaptable person," Pedrotti said. "I want to spend an extended period of time abroad after graduating, and teaching English as a second language through the Fulbright program seemed like an ideal opportunity. I hope to gain a better understanding of Malaysian culture, and the personal growth and independence that comes with living in a new and challenging environment."

The Fulbright U.S. Student Program is sponsored by the United States government and provides intercultural education exchange opportunities like teaching English abroad or conducting research or attending graduate school abroad.

The application process is rigorous and highly selective.

"Fulbright allows students to see the world and use their skills in an international context," said Laura Cotten, University honors program associate director. "It's amazing how much students grow from their Fulbright year. Our UD students are great applicants; our students get the Fulbright mission and vision."