HAPPY LEAP DAY!

This edition of the Phillips Scholar Bulletin is dedicated to Phillips Scholars who have taken the leap to work, volunteer, or study in another country. From Taiwan to Tanzania, Phillips Scholars and alumni have immersed themselves in rich learning opportunities and cultural experiences. As we near the end of this winter, take a moment to read these stories of exploration and adventure. Where will Phillips Scholars go next? 

Elaine Du

Union College Class of 2026 

Major in Asian Studies 

Elaine Du recently returned from an adventure across two continents. This past fall, she studied in Taipei, Taiwan, and in Paris, France. In Taipei, she spent three months in an intensive Chinese language course at National Taiwan University. Outside of class, Elaine spent time chatting with locals, enjoying local customs like eating out at the night markets, and riding the subway, which she reports is fast and efficient! She enjoyed collecting souvenir stamps for her scrapbook at every metro stop. Elaine shared that the most rewarding aspect of that trip was seeing her language skills improve exponentially. Right after her time in Taiwan, Elaine navigated jet lag and culture shock to study in Paris with a professor and classmates from her college. They spent three weeks studying at art museums, including the beautiful Louvre. Elaine reports that seeing the most renowned landmarks in real life was surreal, especially the incredible Palace of Versailles. 

Teala Avery 

Spelman College Class of 2024 

Major in Photography, Minor in Japanese Studies 

Spelman Senior Teala Avery began taking Japanese during sophomore year of college and developed a reverence for the language and culture. When friends and family encouraged her to act on a long-held desire to study abroad, Teala embarked on a meaningful program of study at Tsuda University in Tokyo. In addition to a rigorous courseload of nine classes, Teala prioritized exploring what Tokyo had to offer, whether it be a restaurant, an art space, or an experience like meeting fellow artists. She shares that one of the most outstanding experiences was having her own 5-day exhibition at a local cafe/gallery in her university’s neighborhood. Teala notes that traveling to another country by herself to live for four months took a lot of courage, and there were many surprises and challenges along the way. These challenges have served as encouragement for Teala’s career, relationships, and life after graduation. 

Mich Kurt Magny

Simmons University Class of 2025 

Major in Biochemistry 

Simmons junior Mich Kurt Magny recently volunteered as a hospice worker at the Hogar de Ancianos Naranjito in Costa Rica. She was inspired to go on this service trip because of her passion for helping others, desire to explore different cultures internationally, and her interest in gaining hands-on experience in healthcare. At the hospice facility, Mich Kurt assisted with daily activities such as feeding and grooming, as well as providing emotional support through conversations and companionship. Mich Kurt reports that one of the most rewarding aspects of the experience was the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals facing terminal illnesses. In her words, “Being able to provide comfort, companionship, and support to patients during such a difficult time was incredibly fulfilling. Additionally, I was able to form a valuable connection with one of the seniors that I will never forget.”

Geronimo Martinez

Suffolk University Class of 2006 / Masters' 2008 

Major in Accounting 

Suffolk alum Geronimo Martinez is currently living in London with his wife Yoani and their dog Zoe while he serves as Head of Finance and Business Operations at Biogen UK. He has worked with Biogen for nine years in different capacities, including leading the Global Internal Audit department. Throughout his time at Biogen, Geronimo built a network of mentors and sponsors that helped shape his path and expand his interests and desire to learn. When he was ready for his next challenge, Geronimo tapped into that mentor and sponsor network, which helped bridge him to this new role overseas. He emphasizes the importance of finding mentors and sponsors early in your career who will help advocate for opportunities. Geronimo shared, “I've had a lot of moments where I've had to ask for a chance and prove that I'm worth it, so I've always made it a point to deliver." In his new role, he is broadening his experience in finance and engaging more deeply in operations of Biogen's business, which gets him closer to the mission of delivering therapies to patients. He has also honed his leadership skills, learning how to communicate differently in a new cultural setting while not losing sight of his identity as (in his words) “a loud, outgoing Dominican.” In fact, part of Geronimo’s strategy for success in working overseas hinges on using his personal and cultural traits, like a sense of humor, to his advantage. This allows him to build strong teams and develop allies. Outside of work, Geronimo and his wife have made a point of traveling extensively to take advantage of their time in Europe. Recent favorites are Munich (Germany) and Crete (Greece), for the food, festivities, and people. Geronimo notes, “I never thought I’d leave the Dominican, and then I did. I never thought I’d leave Lawrence, then I did. I never thought I'd leave Boston, then I did. And now I've moved halfway across the world.” He strives to leave each place better than it was when he arrived, while continuing to see the world.