Madeline Griffin
English Teaching Assistanship  |  2025-26

Brazil

Madeline Griffin is a recent UNM graduate, recently completing her master’s in Latin American Studies with a concentration in Conflict, Peace, and Rights. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts from Emory & Henry College, where she completed majors in International Studies, Hispanic Studies, and History. Since finishing her studies, Griffin works as an International student advisor at Maryville College in East Tennessee. She began studying Portuguese last summer through the Critical Language Scholarship Program in Rio de Janeiro, continued learning through CLS refresh lessons, and is thrilled to return and learn about a new region of Brazil. Griffin was selected as one of 10 Fulbright English Teaching Assistant finalists to support students and faculty in universities/post-secondary institutions. She looks forward to fostering intercultural exchange, learning, and support while working with students.

“I am absolutely thrilled to have the opportunity to continue learning and engaging while contributing to my surrounding community as an English Teaching Assistant in Brazil. The younger version of myself who first dared to chase my passion for intercultural exchange and language learning is beaming at this turn of events. A lot of hard work, mentorship, and good timing has gone behind this opportunity. I look forward to using this platform to create a meaningful learning atmosphere for my students as we work together.

“I am privileged to learn from the many mentors and professors throughout my life who encourage me to push outside my comfort zones and dedicate my time to what I am passionate about. Thank you to all those who continue to support students chasing their passions. None of us would be here without you. I hope I can bring some of what you’ve taught me to benefit students as an ETA,” said Griffin.

Griffin especially thanks those at the LAII, including Dr. Kathryn McKnight, Dr. Lenny Valerio and Rosa Prada Vivas, for their support and care throughout her studies. She thanks Laura Bunn, and her CLS Portuguese Professor Claudia Bello Winter for her passion in sharing her language and culture. She also thanks her Emory & Henry community including Professor Claudia Vestal, Dr. Sarah Fisher, Dr. Gaia and Dr. Boltwood.