Josie Mbaye (BA environmental science ’25; MAT science education ’26) was selected as a recipient of a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Award to Taiwan for 2026–27. 

Due to a decision to accept a position teaching biology and ESL biology at Jefferson High School in Rockford, Illinois, Mbaye chose not to accept the Fulbright grant. 

Hometown: Slater, Iowa 
 

Could you give us a brief synopsis of what you planned to do with your Fulbright?

During my Fulbright year, I planned to teach English in Taiwan by integrating English grammar and vocabulary with science, geography, and cultural concepts. Outside the classroom, I intended to develop a collaborative club focused on cooking classic American and Taiwanese dishes using fruits and vegetables from both countries, lead a weeklong geology and natural history camp for middle school students, and volunteer with an organization serving Taiwanese adults with disabilities. 
 

What advice do you have for students interested in applying for a Fulbright?

I encourage anyone interested in applying for a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant position to go for it. Make a plan for how you will get involved in teaching English before your Fulbright year, talk with friends, family, and mentors about the unique qualities and passions you should highlight, and be confident. You deserve this opportunity as much as anyone else, so don’t count yourself out—give yourself the chance to succeed. 
 

Were there experiences at the University of Iowa that inspired you to pursue a Fulbright?

Several experiences at the University of Iowa inspired me to pursue a Fulbright. As a Gilman Scholar, I completed a semester abroad in Chile with SIT, taught English abroad with the College of Education in Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic, completed my ESL practicum at Borlaug Elementary School and West Liberty High School, and completed my ESL student teaching in Mexico. These formative experiences helped me grow as a learner, educator, and person, and gave me the skills, confidence, and enthusiasm to apply for a Fulbright. 
 

Are there individuals you’d like to thank for their investment in this process?

I would like to thank all of my recommenders—Amira Nash, Christine Zabala-Eisshofer, and Mallory Petsche—not only for their support during the application process, but also for their continued support of my academic and professional growth. I would also like to thank Dr. Karen Wachsmuth for her guidance and Sylvia Dean for her time, feedback, and support throughout the application process. 

 

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