Laila Wheeler

During her time as a UCLA undergraduate, Laila Wheeler BA ’25 kept a busy schedule. A triple major in Public Affairs, Education and Sociology, she worked as an opinion editor for the Daily Bruin, conducted research on racism and maternal health in Black communities, mentored high school students preparing for college, and earned prestigious fellowships and internships to work on human rights and education initiatives in Ghana and South Africa.

“My interactions with diverse communities at UCLA and beyond shaped my worldview and interest to explore educational spaces globally,” said Wheeler, who is currently teaching English in Kenya as the recipient of a prestigious Fulbright U.S. Student award, which supports students in teaching and research projects across the globe.

Wheeler is also leading a community service learning course to advance civic engagement, while learning Swahili and immersing herself in Kenyan culture, history, language, and nature.

She is among 12 UCLA students and recent graduates selected for the Fulbright U.S. Student Program in 2025-26, placing the university among the top producers of Fulbright students in the nation. Funded primarily through the U.S. Department of State, the Fulbright Program fosters international academic and professional exchanges that build mutual understanding among Americans and people of other countries.

Read the full story