12/04/2025
Today we're spotlighting David J. Lee, a 2025 Bobby Jones Scholar who graduated from Emory Collee with a major in Political Science and a minor in Economics! David, who calls Duluth Georgia home, is now pursuing a master’s in Global Social and Political Thought at the University of St Andrews.
David applied to the Bobby Jones Scholarship because he wanted to engage with the world more broadly in the next steps of his academic journey. "I have never been to Europe, let alone studied there, so I was really excited about getting the chance to learn from a different school of political and economic thought, as well as immersing myself in a completely different culture."
His experiences in research labs, conferences, and fellowships, alongside completing his honors thesis, strengthened his empirical and problem-solving skills. Outside of academics, taekwondo, co-captaining Emory Mock Trial, and policy and legal advocacy helped shape the initiative and teamwork he translated into his application. David also credits NS&FP staff support, sharing that meeting with Associate Director Jessie McCrary over winter break helped him polish and gain clarity with his narrative.
David's advice for other applicants? Understand your intellectual passions. “...the Bobby Jones is for a graduate program, which means it would be ideal to know your academic passions that you could potentially expand upon at the University of St Andrews"
David plans to attend law school after St Andrews, feeling well-prepared by the theoretical and historical grounding from his graduate program. On campus, he’s already immersed himself in the community through the St Andrews Fashion Society (he’ll be walking in the spring show!), the scuba diving society, and the Korean Society.
Beyond the classroom, what David enjoys most about Scotland is its natural landscape. So far he has enjoyed the walkable town, the cozy cafés and coastal views, and even an exciting visit to Loch Ness. “There is never a moment of boredom," David says.
Excited to start your own chapter at St. Andrews? Use the link in our bio to register for an info session or meet with an NS&FP advisor!
