F&M Stories

Franklin & Marshall graduates have a long history of securing prestigious fellowships and research opportunities across the globe. In this series, we spotlight alumni living, teaching and learning abroad. The World Needs Diplomats. Will you be next? 

Emily Kapner ’21 never imagined a Franklin & Marshall education would lead to castle-hopping in Slovakia. But like many Diplomats, she discovered that a liberal arts degree can open many unexpected paths. 

Kapner is spending the year as an English Teaching Assistantship through Fulbright, the U.S. government’s flagship international educational exchange program. She is one of 11 F&M young alumni awarded Fulbright fellowships in 2023.

“It is really special to be immersed in Slovak culture and I know that the way I think about the world will be forever shaped and influenced by this experience,” she said. 

Emily Kapner ’21

• Fulbright location: Lučenec, Slovakia
• Hometown: Longmeadow, Mass.
• Double major: Psychology and government

Why did you choose your specific Fulbright location? 

I was intrigued by Slovakia's complex political history and particularly its people's sense of national identity in such a recently sovereign nation. Additionally, I was eager to explore the beautiful natural landscapes in Slovakia. It has not disappointed! Breathtaking mountains, fascinating caves and so much open countryside. Also, Slovakia has the most castles per capita in the world!

What steps did you take after graduating from F&M?

Immediately after graduating in spring 2021, I secured a job at the International School of Denver (Colorado). I enjoyed working with students ages 3 to 14 and getting to know a community of teachers and families from around the world. This year in Slovakia, I have been teaching students ages 11 to 19 and getting to know my colleagues and their families. It is really special to be immersed in Slovak culture, and I know that the way I think about the world will be forever shaped and influenced by this experience. Hopefully the same can be said for my students and colleagues!

Why did you choose F&M?

F&M's beautiful campus and its location first interested me. As I learned more, I liked that students were able to pursue a variety of academic interests and customize their F&M experience. Furthermore, I was impressed that the student body seemed engaged with each other and with ideas that matter. Ultimately, F&M's Department of Music and meeting Dr. Brian Norcross [senior director of instrumental music & conducting studies and senior teaching professor of music] convinced me that F&M was the school for me. Students have the opportunity to be a part of a caring, supportive musical community and perform at a high level even without majoring in music.

"It is really special to be immersed in Slovak culture, and I know that the way I think about the world will be forever shaped and influenced by this experience."

Emily Kapner ’21