Sophia Brewer Thompson ’20 Awarded Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship in Bulgaria

Sophia Brewer Thompson ’20, a double major in religion and gender, sexuality, and feminist studies, has been awarded a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship in Bulgaria. 

Thompson was inspired to apply for the Fulbright program because she was drawn to Fulbright's teaching philosophy and emphasis on community engagement beyond the classroom. “I have loved teaching for many years, I have a deep appreciation for creative, language-based education,” she says. “I also spent my childhood learning traditional Balkan music and dance, so this particular program seemed like a great fit for me.”

During her Fulbright year, Thompson will teach English in a Bulgarian public school. While abroad, she hopes to learn more about Bulgarian language, culture, and landscapes, along with further developing her teaching skills and engaging with the community outside the classroom.

Thompson’s prior experiences with teaching also spurred her interest in the Fulbright opportunity. At Oberlin, Thompson served as an America Reads tutor for three years. She also worked for the Peer Support Center and co-facilitated two Intro to Peer Helping Skills courses during her senior year.

During her four years at Oberlin, the Berkeley, California, native was a Bonner Scholar, a member of the acapella group Nothing But Treble, worked as a student supervisor at the Oberlin Annual Fund call center, and volunteered at Oberlin Community Services.

After her experience in Bulgaria, Thompson plans to secure a role working in development and advancement. She eventually would like to return to her background in religious studies and attend divinity school.

“It has been a long road to get to this point,” says Thompson. “I want to thank all of my mentors, friends, and family who have supported and guided me along the way.”