Two Clemson University students will spend the summer studying English literature at Oxford University — one of the world’s most prestigious institutions — through a selective Honors College program.
Political science and economics double major Ellie Cucullu and economics major Ellie Groves were selected as this year’s Christopher J. Duckenfield Scholars in recognition of their extraordinary talent, motivation, commitment, and ability to attend St. Peter’s Summer School at Magdalen College.
The scholarship will help Groves and Cucullu cover tuition costs associated with the five-week program, which is designed to allow North American students to experience Oxford’s tutorial teaching style.
Ellie Cucullu
Cucullu chose economics as her major because she appreciated how Clemson’s curriculum explores the human side of economic principles and theories. She looks forward to exploring some of history’s great thinkers through Oxford’s tutorial system – particularly the opportunity to immerse herself in close readings and critical thinking-based discussion.
She applied for the Duckenfield scholarship to pursue a passion for Shakespeare that she has held since high school.
“I love the study of economics, but being able to do something completely different is also important to me, as it makes you a more well-rounded person,” said Cucullu. “I’m super grateful and humbled by this opportunity and I’m excited to hopefully represent Clemson well at Oxford.”
After she graduates, Cucullu plans to work in business or attend law school.
Ellie Groves
Groves has said if she could also major in English, history, and political science, she would do it in a heartbeat. As a Dixon Global Policy Scholar at the Honors College, Groves explored political history and memorializing the past first-hand on a trip to Europe last summer.
According to Groves, opportunities like the Dixon Global Policy Scholars and Duckenfield programs were key reasons she decided to apply to Clemson.
“Oxford is such a rigorous academic environment. I’m looking forward to hearing from the other students in the program, challenging each other, and being vulnerable with one another,” said Groves. “Opportunities like this make you put everything in a historical perspective and help you find your own place in history.”
After she graduates, Groves hopes to pursue a career in public policy.
About the Christopher J. Duckenfield Scholars Program
Marty Duckenfield and her family created the Christopher J. Duckenfield Scholars Program in memory of her husband, who worked at Clemson for 26 years. He last served as Clemson’s Vice Provost for Computing and Information Technology.
The program, which is celebrating its 20th year, is a partnership between the Honors College and the Duckenfield family that has sent more than 30 Honors students to travel to, study at and experience Oxford University in England. Students are selected through a stringent application process based on their talent, motivation, commitment, and ability to attend St. Peter’s College Summer School at Magdalen College.
Get in touch and we will connect you with the author or another expert.
Or email us at news@clemson.edu