Drury University announces two Fulbright semi-finalists
SPRINGFIELD, Mo., February 6, 2025 — Drury University is proud to announce that two students, Claire Baker ’25 and Hailey Brown ’25, have been named semi-finalists for the prestigious Fulbright U.S. Student Program. Both students applied for English Teaching Assistant (ETA) awards and have now advanced to the next stage of the selection process. The National Screening Committees have recognized Claire and Hailey as exemplary U.S. ambassadors, forwarding their applications to the respective country commissions for final selection.
“Over the past two years, Fulbright applications have increased by 25%, yet Drury students continue to compete at a high level,” said Dr. Shelley Wolbrink, Professor of History and Fellow for the National Scholarships and Fellowships. “The Fulbright process helps students grow in writing, advocacy, mentorship, and professionalism. Claire and Hailey’s success reflects their dedication, strong essays and deep engagement at Drury and beyond.”
Meet Drury’s 2025 Fulbright Semi-Finalists
Claire Baker, a History and Political Science major with a concentration in Women & Gender Studies, has been named a Semi-Finalist for an English Teaching Assistantship in Kosovo. A Gilman Scholar and active member of the History Club, she has also studied abroad in Rome and served as a DEI Fellow, lacrosse player, and tutor. Claire prepared for her application by meeting with Drury graduate and local judge Ron Carrier. “By living in Kosovo, I hope to further develop the understanding necessary to approach legal systems with sensitivity,” Claire said. “Whether co-moderating a discussion about the Israeli-Palestine conflict or serving as a Midwest Model UN delegate for Haiti, my experience in facilitating discussions and analyzing global issues helps me approach the complexities of Kosovo with sensitivity and insight.”
Hailey Brown, an Elementary Education major with a minor in Psychology, has been named a Semi-Finalist for an English Teaching Assistantship in Taiwan. She has gained hands-on experience in teaching through various practicums and studied abroad at Stranmillis University College in Northern Ireland. In addition to serving as a Sorority Officer for Mental Health & Inclusion, Hailey worked with Drury Fulbright professor Li-Hui Lee to strengthen her Mandarin language skills. “I plan to spend my community service hours in a public library or enhance my skills by tutoring,” Hailey said. “Through this service, I will commit to making connections and contributions through my love of storytelling and providing extra assistance to students who need it.”
Drury alum and Fulbright Finalist Megan Parsley ’23 is currently teaching in Athens, Greece, continuing the university’s strong tradition of global engagement. The next Fulbright award cycle (2026-2027) opens in April 2025. Interested students should reach out to Dr. Wolbrink at swolbrin@drury.edu to learn more.
About The Fulbright Program
The Fulbright Program is the flagship international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government and is designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries. The primary source of funding for the Fulbright Program is an annual appropriation made by the U.S. Congress to the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Participating governments, host institutions, corporations, and foundations in foreign countries and in the United States also provide direct and indirect support. Recipients of Fulbright grants are selected on the basis of academic or professional achievement, as well as demonstrated leadership potential in their fields. The Program operates in over 160 countries worldwide.
For additional program background, facts, statistics, and notable Fulbright alumni please consult the State Department's Fulbright website at eca.state.gov/fulbright.