Surisitee Motiram ’23 has received a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant (ETA) Award for the 2024-2025 year from the U.S. Department of State. Motiram will spend a year in Colombia under the aegis of the program. They are the first SMCM student or alumnus to receive a U.S. Student Fulbright Award since 2016.
"I'm excited to immerse myself in a new culture and embrace every moment of this transformative experience," Motiram exclaimed. "As I embark on this journey, I'm filled with excitement and gratitude. It's not just about where I'm going; it's about the connections I'll make, the knowledge I'll gain, and the impact I hope to create."
The ETA program is designed to assist local English teachers in classrooms throughout the world. Motiram will be one of up to 60 ETAs assigned to Colombia, where they will serve as a cultural ambassador for the United States as well as a teaching assistant.
“The Fulbright U.S. Student Program is among the most competitive national awards for student applicants, carrying significant prestige and recognition in both professional and academic circles,” notes Jennifer Cognard-Black, professor of English and the director of student fellowships and awards at St Mary’s College. “I’m quite proud of Surisitee’s accomplishment and know that they will grow and thrive working with Colombian students on improving their English abilities.”
"As an English teaching assistant in Colombia, I'll support instructors, design projects, promote multiculturalism and tutor in English," Motiram added.
A sociology and political science double-major, Motiram currently works for the Maryland General Assembly as a legislative secretary. Motiram’s ideal career involves working as an immigration lawyer to help change the U.S. immigration system, including helping migrants navigate this system. This Fulbright grant to teach English in Colombia will extend their Spanish proficiency as well as provide an opportunity for learning more about the intertwined and often fraught migration dynamics between the U.S. and Colombia.
