Seven from Rutgers–Camden Advance as Fulbright Semi-Finalists
Camden, NJ – February 25, 2026: Seven Rutgers University–Camden students and alumni have been selected as semi-finalists for highly competitive Fulbright scholarships. In this most recent application cycle, seven of Rutgers–Camden’s 15 applicants advanced to the semi-finalist stage.
The Fulbright Program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, is one of the nation’s most prestigious international academic exchange programs. Applicants first submit proposals for study, research, or teaching abroad. Semi-finalists are recommended by the National Screening Committee and then undergo further review by potential host countries. Final award decisions are expected later this spring.
“Being named a Fulbright semi-finalist is a significant achievement that reflects academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to cross-cultural engagement,” said Chancellor Antonio D. Tillis. “We are extremely proud of these students and alumni as they seek to represent Rutgers–Camden on a global stage.”
The Rutgers–Camden Fulbright semi-finalists, their proposed fields, and destinations are:
- Max Adarve, MFA‘24 — Research, Colombia
- Jenna Ahmed, CCAS’25 — English Teaching Assistantship, Bahrain
- Presley Albadine, CCAS’26 — English Teaching Assistantship, Paraguay
- Sarah DeGeorgis, DPPA’27 — Research, Germany
- Thomas Hughes, RSBC’26 — Research, South Africa
- Aliyah Miles, CCAS’24 — Master’s Study, Taiwan
- Doris Zheku, MFA’26 — English Teaching Assistantship, Albania
Fulbright semi-finalists are selected based on academic and professional achievement, the strength of their proposed projects, and their potential to serve as cultural ambassadors. The program supports U.S. students, scholars, and professionals as they engage in graduate study, research, or English-language teaching abroad and foster mutual understanding between the United States and host countries.
About Rutgers University–Camden
Rutgers University–Camden is a hub of academic excellence and innovation, consistently ranked among the nation’s top public colleges and universities. Proudly recognized as one of the safest campuses in the region, the university is located in the “eds and meds” district of Camden, NJ—a city known for its cultural and historic attractions, vibrant arts community, renowned healthcare institutions, and headquarters of internationally recognized corporations. The campus offers a welcoming and engaging learning environment for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students. Just minutes from Center City Philadelphia—home to a thriving business district and a dynamic cultural scene—the campus also benefits from an array of transportation options for easy access in and around the city.
Home to approximately 6,000 students and more than 1,500 faculty and staff, Rutgers–Camden fosters a close-knit academic community where students enjoy the resources of a world-class research institution. Motivated scholars collaborate with world-renowned faculty, creating an environment defined by discovery and support.
As one of four chancellor-led units in the Rutgers University system, Rutgers–Camden is celebrated as a national model for civically engaged urban universities, earning the prestigious Community Engagement status from the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. With its classification as an R2 research university, the campus contributes groundbreaking scholarship and creative output on a global scale.
Ranked among Washington Monthly’s "25 Best-in-Class Colleges", Rutgers University–Camden offers an exceptional environment for intellectual growth, community engagement, and personal achievement, empowering students to reach their highest potential.
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