Alena Chaplygina

About Alena

My name is Alena, and I am a Ph.D. student in the Educational Planning, Policy, and Leadership program. My journey in the U.S. began with a Fulbright grant, which allowed me to teach Russian as a professor in Memphis, TN. This experience deepened my passion for education and inspired me to pursue a Ph.D., with a particular interest in international student experiences, institutional support structures, and educational policy.

As a member of the ISAB, I am committed to create stronger connections between graduate international students at the School of Education and their peers across other schools at William & Mary. I believe that building a supportive community is important for academic and personal success, and I look forward to working on initiatives that enhance the international student experience.

Outside of academia, I enjoy traveling, crocheting, and spending time outdoors.