Laura Gilbert

Marketing and Communications Specialist
Arizona State University Global Launch

My Proudest Achievements:

• Completing a Bachelor’s degree that allowed me to explore new languages and cultures — being a student of Linguistics and Spanish and being close friends with international students contributed greatly to my college experience and helped form me into who I am today. I encourage students to join clubs and get involved at their campus.
• Achieving a Fulbright grant to teach English in Brazil was a dream come true. It was my ultimate goal after completing my degree. I enjoyed studying the history and politics of Latin America in my university coursework but felt like Brazil was only briefly mentioned. The academic year I experienced in Brazil allowed me to learn more about the diversity of Brazil’s regions — from the history to politics to food. I also appreciated the opportunity to practice and learn Portuguese because being immersed in an environment with few English speakers enhanced my fluency.         
  

My Inspiration:
It’s cliché, but my mom is a big inspiration to me. She is very strong, independent, and full of life. She inspires me to get outside, enjoy every day to the fullest, and focus on what’s most important in life. She also has an infectious laugh!

As for my career, my supervisors have been influential in my journey. My first supervisors at Arizona State University, Chung Ning-Gonzalez and Laura Suhler, were so kind and encouraging as I started my first role at the university. My current supervisor, Chloé Martin-Bonneville, has also been instrumental in building my confidence and coaching me through work challenges as I started a new role in marketing and communications.

What's Special About Arizona State University Global Launch:
ASU Global Launch sets itself apart because of its quality of English educators and multiple pathways for students to earn admission to the university. The potential of every student is honored in an environment that best prepares them for an undergraduate or graduate degree.

Being located in Phoenix, Arizona, sets us apart as well since our technology and engineering industries are growing exponentially. With the presence of companies like Intel and Taiwanese Semiconductor Manufacturing Company and a growing population, our local economy provides opportunities for any student to create a life and career for themselves.