August 20, 2011
Joining the growing roster of fellow students who have earned the prestigious award, a 2011 St. John’s graduate has received a Fulbright Scholarship to spend the next academic year teaching, volunteering and conducting research in the Dominican Republic before heading to medical school.
Woodley Pean ‘11C, who graduated in May with a major in biology and a minor in Africana Studies, will help teach English to low-income Dominicans. He also will volunteer in a local hospital, helping to provide health care for children suffering from HIV. When he completes the 10-month fellowship, Woodley plans to attend medical school in New York City.
[Click and drag to move] The 21-year-old Stoughton, MA, native says he was “in disbelief” when he learned he had received the Fulbright Scholarship. “I was ecstatic, as were my parents,” he said. “I knew I had a chance, but of course I also realized how tough the competition was. It’s a tremendous honor to be included with so many outstanding students.”
Woodley is one of two St. John’s students who received the prestigious award this year. The other is Athena Loch ‘11C, an English major who will conduct research in Macau. In addition, three St. John’s undergraduates were selected as alternates for 2011-12 Fulbright Scholarships. Last year, three St. John’s graduate students received Fulbrights to conduct research abroad.
“The growing number of St. John’s students to win Fulbrights — and other top academic prizes — says a great deal about their talents and our University itself,” said Konrad Tuchscherer, Ph.D., Associate Professor of History, Assistant Provost and Director of the Graduate Admissions Assistance Program (G.A.A.P.). “St. John’s is dedicated to creating an environment that prepares students for opportunities to work and study globally.”
“Woodley is one of those students who make you feel great about teaching,” said Rev. Patrick Flanagan, C.M., Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Theology and Religious Studies. Woodley’s professor in a medical ethics class, Fr. Flanagan wrote a recommendation letter when Woodley applied for the Fulbright.
According to Woodley, the support he received when applying for the Fulbright exemplifies the exceptional opportunities St. John’s provides its students. In addition to academics, Woodley served as secretary of the University chapter of NAACP, events chair for Habitat for Humanity and as a member of the Watson Pre-Health Honor Society. He also has participated in Campus Ministry and engaged in the University’s numerous service opportunities.
“I’m truly grateful to have spent my undergraduate years at St. John’s,” said Woodley. “I believe students find opportunities here that simply aren’t available at many other universities."