In Thailand, a Fulbright Scholar Teaches English to Children Before Attending Law School
Chelsea A. Fernandez, a first-generation student who majored in political science and criminal justice at Rutgers-New Brunswick, aims to become an attorney
Rutgers University-New Brunswick alumna Chelsea A. Fernandez is taking a detour in Thailand on her path to becoming an attorney.
The Woodbridge, N.J., resident, a first-generation student who majored in political science and criminal justice through the School of Arts and Sciences, works with school children in the Tha Sala district in the province of Nakhon Si Thammarat, thanks to a grant through the Fulbright U.S. Student Program’s English teaching assistant program for East Asia-Pacific nations.
The 23-year-old, who graduated from Rutgers in May 2024, discusses being inspired by movements for social reform, finding community and inspiration in Thailand and her weekly Zumba tradition.
Describe your Fulbright project.
I have been awarded a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant grant, which began in September 2024 and ends this September. This opportunity has allowed me to teach English and engage deeply with the local community in Thailand, one that I now consider my home.
I currently teach conversational English in 15 classes per week, with an average of 40 students per class across three levels: grades one, four and five.
What have you gained from your study-abroad experience?
Thai culture is so uniquely rooted in empathy and compassion, and this mindset touches every aspect of my life in Thailand. I’ve developed a deep respect for Buddhism and Thai customs, both of which are centered around kindness, something I’ve experienced firsthand.
Whether it was during times of illness, when every teacher offered help, or in the classroom, where students show genuine respect, I’ve felt a deep sense of care. Even at the gym, the older women who dance Zumba with me every Wednesday always include me in photos, even though we can’t communicate in the same language.
From the smiles I get as I ride my bike through town to the comfort of knowing I can park it without fear, the warmth of this community has left a lasting mark on me.
I’ve formed relationships I will carry with me forever. This experience has shown me just a fraction of how beautiful the world is, that is, far beyond the capitalistic and fast-paced life that I knew in America.
How do you plan to apply what you’ve learned moving forward?
Moving forward, I plan to bring the empathy, patience and cross-cultural communication I’ve gained into law school and, ultimately, my legal career.
Teaching English in Thailand has strengthened my ability to convey ideas in very simple terms, to listen despite language barriers and to adapt quickly to unfamiliar settings (have you seen a squatter potty?), skills that are invaluable in not only the legal profession but in day-to-day life.
Living and working in a culture so different from my own has also reminded me of the importance of humility. Thanks to my experience in Thailand, I want my future legal work to reflect the values I’ve lived here: compassion, respect and dignity for all others.
What brought you to Rutgers?
As a first-generation student, I knew I couldn’t realistically go far from home. Upon touring Rutgers, I fell in love with the campus and all that the School of Arts and Sciences and the Honors College had to offer. I was fortunate enough to receive a full-tuition scholarship.
With all the resources, the beautiful campus, and the relief of not having to worry about the cost of attendance, I felt like Rutgers chose me. I knew my heart belonged there. If I could go back, I wouldn’t change a single thing.
What drew you to your field of study?
Since high school, I have been deeply inspired by the history of the Civil Rights Movement and other mass movements for social reform. These stories of resistance sparked my interest in law and justice, and I have since sought to reconcile my respect for the law with my personal moral principles. This ongoing journey has shaped my academic and professional aspirations.
Having personally experienced the impact of harsh immigration laws and the often unforgiving stance America takes toward immigrants, I came to understand that my life’s purpose is to serve marginalized communities. This commitment has led me to pursue volunteer work and community engagement, and it fuels my ultimate goal: to establish my own immigration law practice.
Through this practice, I hope to provide pro-bono legal services and continue to advocate for those most in need – those whom the law too often overlooks or fails.
What are your interests?
I love dancing (Zumba has become a weekly tradition), photography and yoga. I also love cooking Thai food.
Undergraduate and graduate students interested in applying for a Fulbright grant may contact the Rutgers-New Brunswick Office of Distinguished Fellowships or the School of Graduate Studies, respectively.
