Bryn Mawr Alum Embarks on Fulbright Teaching Journey in Laos

Bryn Mawr College alum Syalomee Pradham teaches English in the Southeast Asian country of Laos as a recipient of a Fulbright Scholarship. Before the end of the year, she will have the opportunity to hone her pedagogical skills in the cities of Pakse and Vientiane, the country’s capital.

Bryn Mawr consistently ranks among the top Fulbright-producing institutions in the United States. This year, Syalomee was one of only 12 applicants to receive the Fulbright award to Laos.

According to its website, “The Fulbright U.S. Student Program expands perspectives through academic and professional advancement and cross-cultural dialogue. In partnership with more than 140 countries worldwide, the Fulbright U.S. Student Program offers unparalleled opportunities in all academic disciplines to passionate and accomplished graduating college seniors, graduate students, and young professionals from all backgrounds.”

I’m passionate about making healthcare more accessible.

Reflecting on the value of her experience, Syalomee says, “Teaching at a vocational college in Laos has shown me how access to education can empower students with the skills they need for their future but also how language barriers can limit opportunity.”

Upon her completion of her Fulbright program in Laos, Syalomee will attend the University of Pennsylvania to pursue a master of science in bioengineering.

“It’s been a transformative experience that has pushed me to adapt, learn, and see the world from a new perspective,” says Syalomee.

Syalomee graduated cum laude from Bryn Mawr College, earning a bachelor’s in biology with a minor in computer science. Between her sophomore and junior years of college, Syalomee interned at ElevateBio and assisted with research in biophysics at Haverford College—an experience that informed her senior thesis on lizard locomotion. Prior to her graduation, Syalomee presented biomechanics research at the Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology Conference in Seattle, Washington.

Explaining her commitment to global health equity and diversity in the STEM field, she says, “I’m passionate about making healthcare more accessible, which comes from my experience as a South Asian child immigrant navigating healthcare gaps for my family. These challenges taught me that finding treatment options through research is undoubtedly essential, but it is only part of the equation.”

Syalomee credits her time as a Posse Scholar and her connection to Bryn Mawr faculty with teaching her the value of leadership, resilience, and building strong relationships.

“All of these skills,” Syalomee says, “have helped prepare me to navigate the challenges of college, my time with Fulbright, and the professional world.”