Fulbright Fellow Amelia Friess '26 to Teach in Czech Republic

What are you looking forward to the most?
One reason I chose to apply for a Fulbright in the Czech Republic is because of the access to classical music, particularly opera. I am looking forward to meeting musicians in my community, joining a choir, attending performances, and continuing my personal vocal pursuits. It will be wonderful to be immersed in a place that has such a rich history of classical music. I hope to eventually organize a recital with local musicians involving both English and Czech music!

How did Oberlin shape or influence you to pursue the Fulbright?

Oberlin’s exploratory curriculum and supportive professors encouraged me to pursue my aspirations with greater ambition. While I had always hoped to study abroad, I was unsure how to make that goal a reality. Through conversations with voice faculty and fellow students, I learned about the wide range of musical opportunities available in Europe. 

With the guidance of my professors and support from Oberlin’s Internship+ program, I participated in an opera program in Saluzzo, Italy, this past summer. This transformative experience opened my eyes to the musical possibilities in Europe and strengthened my confidence in my ability to pursue them. 

In addition, Oberlin provided numerous teaching experiences, such as ExCos, peer tutoring and OWLing, that not only strengthened my Fulbright application but also helped me discover my passion for teaching. Oberlin equipped me with the tools and encouragement to pursue a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship.

How does pursuing the Fulbright align with your post-college life and career goals? 

Pursuing a Fulbright ETA aligns with my goals of becoming both a performer and arts educator. Through working with students in the Czech Republic, I'll gain experience planning lessons, explaining concepts, and teaching students who have different backgrounds from my own—all essential elements for a career as a music teacher. Because vocal music is often performed in foreign languages, serving as an ETA will better equip me to guide students in understanding and singing in other languages. 

This will also allow me to experience music in the setting and language in which it was written, deepening my artistic understanding. I also look forward to connecting with professional musicians who can provide advice for my future career. I hope that my time in the Czech Republic will help me become a teacher that shares new musical traditions and encourages students to explore all musical styles. 

What’s the best advice you’ve received from your Oberlin faculty mentors?

As I was working on my short answers and personal statement, I received feedback from family, friends and professors. My former voice professor, Kendra Colton, generously took the time to work through each draft with me. She consistently encouraged me to be honest, clear, and concise, and to seek out new adventures.

I also worked personally with Danielle Abdon, the director of fellowships and awards. Her main piece of advice was to “be more specific.” I enjoyed spending every Friday eating pizza and continuing to write draft after draft. I always left meetings with her feeling more capable and prepared to submit my application.

I do not believe I would have earned this Fulbright without their kind support and dedication.  

If you’re a rising or graduating senior interested in Fulbright, connect with Fellowships & Awards to learn more about pursuing research or an arts project, obtaining a graduate degree, or teaching English in a foreign country of your choice following graduation.