Whether teaching English in Kyrgyzstan, conducting medical research in Australia, studying politics in Turkey, or analyzing languages in Portugal, six Brigham Young University graduates will make new connections around the world as 2025 Fulbright scholars. These students exemplify the values of global citizenship, service, and academic excellence.
The Fulbright Scholarship is awarded to students pursuing graduate studies, research, or teaching English abroad. Over the next few weeks, we’ll spotlight four of the Fulbright recipients to illustrate how their life paths and BYU experiences shaped them, what inspired their applications, and where they hope to make a difference.
We continue with Christian Barker, recipient of the Fulbright Australia Research Award.
Christian Barker graduated from BYU in April 2025, with a degree in microbiology from at the College of Life Sciences. During the summer of 2024, Barker had the opportunity to intern at the University of Melbourne in Australia. His main focus was researching blood cancers. This sparked his interest in applying for the Fulbright.
Barker became aware of the Fulbright scholarship as a BYU student. While on his internship, Barker thought it would be a great opportunity to return to Australia through a Fulbright Scholarship. During the application process, he learned to express and show the impact of his research, and how he could personally connect with the culture of Australia.
“It was exciting; to be honest, I didn't expect it,” Barker said. “I think to a degree, there's a certain amount of validation of whoa, I actually did that. It felt comforting and validating.”
Barker had the opportunity to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Thailand and volunteered in the Democratic Republic of Congo before attending BYU. Barker discovered he wanted to pursue a career in medicine through his experience with the BYU Ballard Center. His time in these countries and at the Ballard Center, helped him discover his desire to bring change in the world.
Barker is grateful for his meaningful BYU experiences. He loved working with the Ballard Center, as well as the spiritual environment he was surrounded with. Barker learned to prioritize his discipleship and academic interests.
“BYU prepared me to pursue the goals and dreams I have but also stay grounded in the gospel of Jesus Christ,” Barker said. “I learned to live in the world, not of the world, and to balance my spiritual life with pursuing academic excellence in whatever I want to do.”
Due to personal reasons and timing, Barker is not accepting the Fulbright. He plans to attend medical school and pursue a master’s degree. Barker hopes to increase his perspective on healthcare and healthcare systems. He aspires to have an impact as a physician, and in his everyday life.
For future applicants, Barker advises getting involved with the BYU National Scholarships and Prestigious Fellowships office. Be willing to accept feedback, as well as find those people who will give honest feedback. Lastly, if you have any desire, just apply.
“As a word of encouragement, if you have an idea of something you want to pursue, there's no reason not to,” Barker said. “Put your foot forward and apply for it; whether it’s Fulbright or other internships, whatever it might be. You never know what application committee is going to give you a chance; shoot your shot.”
Barker’s commitment to service, research, and compassionate care has already spanned continents, and will no doubt shape his future in medicine.
Come back next week to read about our last Fulbright recipient.
The Fulbright application opens every April. To learn more about the Fulbright Scholarship, contact the National Scholarships and Prestigious Fellowships Office.