Giving Thanks: Scholarship Helps Undergraduate Student Reach Dream of Becoming a Political Scientist

This December, members of our Fulbright College Family are sharing expressions of gratitude, letters of thanks and their appreciation for those who have helped make their educational journey possible.  

Meet Olivia R. Kuester, who thanks to the Minna Rosenbaum Divers Scholarship and Award, is one step closer to her dream of becoming a political scientist, working at a research-based university and teaching courses in the field of political science.

Minna Rosenbaum Divers Scholarship and Award Recipient Olivia R. Kuester

Name: Olivia R. Kuester
Hometown: Coweta, OK
Graduation: 2024
Major(s)/Minor(s): Political Science major, and African and African American Studies minor

Activities/Interests: I love being active and doing anything outdoors, especially if my dog Milo is with me. You will find us at Lake Wilson every Sunday! I also enjoy reading, writing, gardening, and cooking for myself and for guests. I have tons of house plants and a small backyard garden full of carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, broccoli, cucamelons, and more.

Career Aspirations: After graduating from the University of Arkansas with a degree in political science, I plan on attending graduate school in hopes of obtaining a master’s and Ph.D. in political science with a focus on American Politics. I hope to find employment at a research-based university, teaching political science courses while conducting research related to state politics, voter behavior, and gender politics.

In her own words:

Dear Mrs. Alward,

Thank you for supporting the Minna Rosenbaum Divers Endowed Scholarship and Award. I was recently notified that I am the 2023 recipient of the Minna Rosenbaum Divers Endowed Scholarship and Award, and I am endlessly grateful for the recognition and support. I consider it a deep honor to represent this award and thank you for your vote of confidence.

I graduated from Coweta High School in Oklahoma in 2020 and am currently a junior majoring in political science with minors in African and African American Studies and global studies. I plan to continue my education post-graduation and hope to obtain a master’s and Ph.D. in political science with a focus in American Politics. My goal for the future is to become a tenured university professor at an R1 school, where I can contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of American politics while inspiring future generations of students. I have been working nearly full-time throughout the duration of my education but will have more time in the fall to focus on my own research and my internship with the Arkansas Poll due to the financial assistance from this award.

Thank you again for giving to Fulbright College and for helping me accomplish my dreams. This college has sparked my passion for learning and research, and I sincerely appreciate the opportunities both you and Fulbright College have provided me.

Sincerely,

Olivia R. Kuester

For more information about the Minna Rosenbaum Divers Scholarship and Award or to make a year-end gift to support the college’s students, faculty, or staff, please contact Fulbright College’s Office of Development and External Relations at 479-575-3712 or fulbright@uark.edu.