Hampshire resident receives Fulbright assistantship

Jasmine Anderson, a recent Oberlin College-Ohio graduate majoring German studies and politics, has been awarded a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship in Germany's southwestern state of Baden-Württemberg.

The 2013 Hampshire High School graduate fell in love with the German language in high school. Since completing a gap year through the Rotary International Youth Exchange Program in Berlin, she has been seeking opportunities to return to the area.

The graduating senior also has a very personal connection to the country. "My mom's family is originally from Germany, though not a region that I've ever been to," says Anderson. "I hope to explore this a bit more during my fellowship year."

During Anderson's four years at Oberlin, she has tutored students in lower-level German courses and worked as a tutor with America Reads. Through those experiences, she has fine-tuned her approach to teaching. "I love working with students, getting creative with my teaching strategies, and learning alongside them."

When reflecting on the experience of living and working in a new place, she welcomes the challenges that it will likely offer. "This experience will force me to learn on the job much of the time, which I look forward to. There's always a sharp learning curve understanding how to live in a new community," she says. "I've been accepted into a subgroup of Fulbright ETAs in Germany that is placed in schools with a significant minority and immigrant background. It will be interesting learning how to balance my role as a teacher and representative of the United States."

In addition to teaching, Anderson hopes to become involved with the community through local clubs and organizations. She would also like to take classes at a local university.

"I'd like to thank all of my friends, family, and professors for helping me through the application and waiting process," says Anderson. "I'd also like to encourage other students to apply for fellowships, because I think it offers so many great opportunities and provides you with a great way to reflect on both your accomplishments and future plans."

Following her fellowship, Anderson plans to continue with her studies, possibly pursuing a master's or law degree.