BYU Senior Presented Research at Oxford Symposium
Natalie Fernsten shared findings on linguistic prejudice during the July 2026 academic gathering in the U.K.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Language Learning
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In July 2026, BYU senior Natalie Fernsten became the only undergraduate student to present research at the Oxford Education Research Symposium. Her work examined African American Vernacular English and its relation to linguistic prejudice.
Why it matters
The opportunity highlights how international academic experiences can encourage students to share specialized research beyond their home campus. Fernsten's study originated from an English Capstone project focused on the works of Mark Twain.
The research was developed from an English Capstone project and refined following a seven-week study abroad program in London. Publication of the findings is expected following the conclusion of the symposium.
The players
Natalie Fernsten
She is a BYU senior who conducted research on African American Vernacular English and linguistic prejudice.
Brigham Young University
This is a private research university in Provo where Fernsten is completing her undergraduate studies.
Oxford Education Research Symposium
This is an academic forum that invites scholars and students to discuss contemporary issues in educational research.
The details
Fernsten utilized insights gained during her participation in the Quill Project to adapt her class paper for a global audience. Following her presentation in Oxford, she is scheduled to showcase additional work in Washington, D.C. later this year.
Timeline
Summer 2025: Natalie Fernsten participated in a seven-week study abroad program in London.
July 2026: The student presented her research at the Oxford Education Research Symposium.
November 2026: Fernsten is scheduled to present another piece of work in Washington, D.C.
Culture Shift
This research presentation reflects the broader trend of undergraduates engaging in specialized humanities research via the Quill Project. Such initiatives increasingly bridge the gap between classroom work and international academic discourse.
This achievement demonstrates the potential for local Provo students to pursue high-level academic opportunities through university-sponsored study abroad programs. Residents may view this as an example of the research capabilities fostered within the local collegiate environment.
The takeaway
Students looking to advance their academic careers should seek out international symposia that align with their undergraduate research interests. Engaging in specialized projects like the Quill Project can provide the necessary foundation for presenting findings at a global level.
What happens next
Natalie Fernsten will present another piece of work in Washington, D.C. in November 2026.
Further reading
For more information on scholarly pursuits in the region, visit the Language Learning section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by BYU Daily Universe.
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