Emma Anderson (BA international relations and political science ’25) has received a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant (ETA) award to Tajikistan for the 2026–27 academic year. 

Hometown: Boone, Iowa 

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

During my Fulbright year, I will serve as an English Teaching Assistant at one of the eight American Spaces in Tajikistan. For my supplemental projects, I plan to lead a Girls Club that explores American literature and film and collaborate with English learners to create a multilingual press book.

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

After completing my Fulbright, I plan to attend law school and pursue a career as a judge advocate general (JAG) officer. Serving as an ETA in Tajikistan will strengthen my ability to work across cultures, improve my foreign language skills, and provide a unique opportunity to grow as a leader.

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

I encourage you to reflect on which country aligns best with your personal interests and goals. Then seek advice from as many people as possible—professors, mentors, and friends—and especially Dr. Karen Wachsmuth and Sylvia Dean as you write your proposals and prepare for your interview. My network was the most valuable resource as I navigated the challenging yet rewarding Fulbright application process.

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

The Human Rights Certificate at the University of Iowa includes an internship with Scholars at Risk that sparked my interest in the Persian language and led me to pursue a Critical Language Scholarship in Tajikistan. My time in-country reinforced my desire to apply for a Fulbright. I also took classes with Ambassador McMullen in the Department of Political Science, where stories about his travels deepened my interest in pursuing my own international experiences. In addition, many of my peers in the international relations program participated in Fulbright and shared their experiences, further inspiring me to apply.

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

I want to express my gratitude to my recommenders, Sarah Hezarkhani and Amina Hasanova; my language instructors from the Critical Language Scholarship program in Dushanbe, Tajikistan; and Professor Amy Weismann, assistant director of the University of Iowa Center for Human Rights. I also thank my friend Adelaide Brooks for invaluable feedback on numerous essay drafts and unwavering support. 

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