(Posted May 6, 2024)

Moshe Gasson '24

Moshe Gasson '24

HUNTINGDON, Pa. ­— Juniata College senior Moshe Gasson, who is from Pittsburgh and is studying French with a secondary emphasis in history and education, has received a Fulbright English Teaching Award to Luxembourg.  

“International travel is important to me because it gives people from around the world the opportunity to participate in cross-cultural exchange,” Gasson said. “This encourages understanding and cooperation on a global scale.”  

Originally from Pittsburgh, Pa., Gasson loved learning about other cultures and engaged with international experiences since he started at Juniata. He taught English through his work as a tutor at Juniata’s Center for International Education and studied abroad in France.  

“During the 2021-2022 academic year, I lived in the Global Village and had a roommate from France. We would attend many cultural events together and spend time with our diverse international friend group,” Gasson said. “The following year, I studied abroad in Lille, France, at the Catholic University of Lille.”   

The Fulbright English Teaching Assistant (ETA) programs place individuals in classrooms abroad to assist local English teachers. ETAs help teach the English language while serving as cultural ambassadors for the U.S. The age and academic level of the students varies by country, ranging from kindergarten to university level. Applicants for English Teaching Assistant Programs can apply to only one country. 

“The Fulbright program started in the aftermath of World War II, it grew during the Cold War, and it continues on today, expanding the boundaries of research, knowledge, and sharing English as a foreign language in partner nations,” said Dr. James Tuten, who is the Charles R. and Shirley A Knox professor of history and the Fulbright adviser at Juniata. “At its heart, though, this prestigious honor is about people connecting and creating bonds across international borders and cultures. Our Fulbright scholars grew through their experiences, and with today’s technologies, they maintain the friendships they build for decades.”  

Gasson worked closely with Dr. Tuten on his writing and application. 

“We even had meetings over Zoom while I was studying in France. He worked with me on refining my application, and I consulted him throughout the process,” recalled Gasson. 

Gasson will graduate from Juniata on May 11, 2024, and then he will be headed to Luxembourg. He plans to become an educator or get involved in international politics.  

“I am looking forward to teaching on a secondary and university level,” said Gasson. “Additionally, being a student of French, I will take any opportunity to live and work in a francophone country.” 

Contact April Feagley at feaglea@juniata.edu or (814) 641-3131 for more information.