Lucia Rongerude (BA linguistics and Spanish ’26) is the recipient of a 2026–27 Fulbright English Teaching Assistant (ETA) Award to Colombia. 

Hometown: Des Moines, Iowa 

Could you give us a synopsis of what you’ll be doing with your Fulbright? 

During my Fulbright, I will teach English in Colombia to university students and adult learners. While there, I hope to take Indigenous language classes and volunteer with Indigenous-led organizations. Additionally, I plan to start a bilingual conversation club at my host university to encourage students to learn a new language and connect across cultures.

How do you envision this will influence your life and future career? 

After Fulbright, I plan to pursue a career in language conservation. I hope to earn a Master of Arts in linguistics and work with organizations such as 7,000 Languages to promote endangered language learning. Living and working in Colombia will help me connect with, build relationships with, and learn from these communities.

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

Go for it. Find a connection with a country, listen to the advice you are given, and follow your passion.

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

My biggest inspiration at the University of Iowa was being able to study abroad. Studying abroad, and the university as a whole, taught me that I am capable of anything I put my mind to and helped me feel comfortable being on my own. 

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

I would like to thank Professor Nazomi Tanaka for providing continuous recommendations and opportunities to grow. I would also like to thank Professor Maricelle Pinto-Tomas for encouraging my love of Spanish and travel abroad, and Amber Camp for her recommendation. Additionally, I would like to thank Leah Sweeney for helping me feel comfortable in front of a classroom and Meredith Gall for encouraging me to apply for a Fulbright in the first place. I am also grateful to Karen Wachsmuth and Silvia Dean for reviewing countless drafts and for their unwavering support. Finally, I would like to thank my friends, family, and everyone else who continues to support me and encourage me to follow my dreams. 

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