Rachel Neale, the Intercultural Programs Manager at the Center for Global Engagement (CGE), will be leaving her position in August to go to Bulgaria for ten months on the Fulbright Student Program. 

The Fulbright Program, initiated by the United States government, serves as a flagship program of international educational and cultural exchange. With a presence in over 160 countries, Fulbright offers esteemed students and scholars the chance to study, teach, conduct research, and foster mutual understanding. These talented individuals from diverse backgrounds inspire innovation and contribute to finding solutions to global challenges.

Rachel's Fulbright adventure will take her to Sofia, Bulgaria, where she will focus on studying Bulgarian language, history, and culture at American University in Bulgaria. During the second half of her Fulbright, Rachel will work on translation projects and conduct research on Slavic women's cultural practices in the Balkans as a fellow at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences. Additionally, Rachel plans to participate in Bulgarian folk dance and singing groups throughout her Fulbright tenure.

Rachel's Fulbright journey will span a duration of 10 months, allowing her ample time to immerse herself in Bulgarian culture, expand her research, and enhance her language skills. Beyond the immediate experience, Rachel has her sights set on becoming a Foreign Service Officer. Her long-term goals include a career in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, which oversees the Fulbright Program and other diplomatic initiatives. Rachel's dedication to citizen-led diplomacy and her passion for fostering mutual understanding align perfectly with Fulbright's mission.

Rachel, a lifetime Floridian, developed a love for exploring different cultures and fostering cross-cultural connections. Her undergraduate journey led her to pursue a dual degree, culminating in an International Studies BA and a Psychology BS with a minor in Russian from the University of Florida. Currently, Rachel is pursuing a Master’s degree in Slavic Studies at FSU.

Rachel's professional journey took her to Moscow, Russia, where she worked as an English Teacher for "Education First English First" and English Tutor for over two years. Additionally, she served as a Study Abroad Program Leader for The Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE), contributing to their first High School Summer Abroad program in Russia. Rachel's dedication extended further as she volunteered at the American Center at the US Embassy in Moscow, teaching free English classes, and participating in educational and cultural programming.

During her tenure at the Center for Global Engagement, Rachel assumed the role of Intercultural Programs Manager. In this capacity, she planned, coordinated, and oversaw various programs and events such as the Engage Your World speaker series, International Coffee Hour, and the International Bazaar, among others. She also played a pivotal role in the Global Ambassadors Program, Global Noles Mentor Program, English Conversation Club, and served as the Committee Chair for the Global Citizenship Award. Rachel's dedication and collaboration with staff, faculty, and students helped shape the CGE's mission to internationalize FSU and increase global awareness.

Rachel's favorite aspect of working at the CGE was the invaluable experiences she shared with students, colleagues, and collaborators. The personal and professional growth she experienced while working alongside the dedicated CGE staff and faculty allowed her to witness the transformative power of international education. Mentoring and advising students and participating in international programming were highlights of her time at CGE, as she witnessed students share their cultures, grow, and evolve into global citizens and leaders. As Rachel bids farewell to the CGE, she cherishes the supportive and empowering environment she called home. The incredible staff, many of whom have become close friends, will be missed dearly. 

Rachel Neale expresses her heartfelt gratitude to her family, partner, professors in the Slavic Program, mentors, advisors, and colleagues who supported her throughout her journey and helped her attain this remarkable achievement. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in her success, and she extends her love and thanks to each of them.

Rachel Neale's journey from a plant enthusiast, foodie, and cat mom to a Fulbrighter is a testament to her hard work and dedication for international education and cultural exchange. Her invaluable experiences at the Center for Global Engagement at FSU have laid a strong foundation for her Fulbright adventure and her long-term aspirations. As Rachel ventures forth to immerse herself in Bulgarian culture and contribute to the Fulbright mission, she serves as an inspiration to others, showing the transformative power of global experiences and the potential to make a positive impact in the world.