Morgan Goldstein ‘16, an elementary education and special education double major from Robbinsville, N.J., will travel to Spain in September as part of a federal program that builds good will between the United States and people of other nations.
By Sarah Collins ‘18
Goldstein spent her spring 2014 semester studying in Toledo, Spain. This experience, combined with her love of Spanish and desire to positively affect the world through teaching, inspired her to pursue a Fulbright experience. “From a very young age, I knew I wanted to be a teacher and impact the lives of those around me,” Goldstein said. “I developed a love of Spanish and after witnessing countless students’ academic challenges, discovered my passion for special education.”
Upon completing her teaching assistantship, Goldstein plans to return to the US to attend graduate school and earn special education and English as a Second Language certifications. “My experience with Fulbright will open the door to new pedagogical strategies and help me become a globally engaged and culturally aware teacher,” she said.
During her time at Elon, Goldstein served as a head staff member for New Student Orientation, an Elon Hillel Engagement Intern, an Elon University tour guide and a facilitator for Pre-Serve, an Elon first-year summer experience. She is president of Omicron Delta Kappa, Elon’s leadership honor society, a member of the Spanish honor society, Sigma Delta Pi, and a new inductee in Kappa Delta Pi, Elon’s education honor society.
Evan Small, Assistant Director of the Kernodle Center for Student Programs, asserts that “Morgan has consistently proven herself through a variety of leadership roles and experiences. She has served locally, studied abroad, and worked hard to improve every organization in which she is involved. Whether in Hillel, the Truitt Center, New Student Programs or any number of other roles Morgan holds, she demonstrates professionalism, passion, and a constant desire to serve others. She is an excellent leader and a natural educator who will be a wonderful asset to her future students in Spain.”
Goldstein is one of over 1,900 U.S. citizens who will travel abroad for the 2015-2016 academic year through the Fulbright U.S. Student Program. Recipients of Fulbright grants are selected on the basis of academic and professional achievement, as well as demonstrated leadership potential.
Since its establishment under legislation introduced by the late U.S. Sen. J. William Fulbright of Arkansas, the Fulbright Program has given approximately 300,000 students, scholars, teachers, artists, and scientists the opportunity to study, teach and conduct research, exchange ideas and contribute to finding solutions to shared international concerns.
Morgan is the daughter of Steven and Sherri Goldstein of Robbinsville, N.J, and a 2012 graduate of Robbinsville High School.
Elon students and recent alums interested in this award or other nationally competitive fellowships are invited to visit the National and International Fellowships Office in Powell 108 or by calling (336) 278-5749.