The Yeutter Student Fellows program is a professional development program for students seeking a margin of excellence in their career preparation by connecting knowledge gained in the classroom with professional development opportunities. Every year, the cohort includes four students from several different majors and colleges across campus who will work together around the common theme of international trade while learning to see trade issues from different perspectives.
The institute’s namesake, Clayton Yeutter, was passionate about students and preparing them for our changing world. During a 1989 commencement speech he said—
“…if you are prepared to be broad and creative and global in your thinking, you should have a very productive and rewarding career indeed.”
We are committed to that same mindset and on that note, want to introduce this year's Yeutter Student Fellows! Read more about the four students that were selected below.
Meet Matthew Gillespie
Major: Economics and Political Science
Hometown: Omaha, NE
Interests, Internships, & Aspirations: A soon-to-be Spring 2025 graduate, Matthew will finish his degree with a double major in Economics and Political Science. With hands-on experience as a Supply Intern at Union Pacific under his belt, and a focus on international relations, trade, and law, his next steps are pursuing a future career as an elected official.
Meet Zanib Al Razaq
Major: Economics and Spanish
Hometown: Lincoln, NE
Interests, Internships, & Aspirations: Graduating in Spring 2026, Zanib is pursuing a double major in Spanish and Economics. With a passion for human rights and food insecurity, and experience in refugee resettlement, development, and data analytics, Zanib has a deep interest in international trade law and strong aspirations to build a career in this field.
Meet Ethan Zen
Major: Economics
Hometown: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Interests, Internships, & Aspirations: Pursuing a double major in Finance and Economics, Ethan will graduate in Spring 2026. Ethan is passionate about economic and trade news, staying informed on global developments. With valuable experience as the President of the Center for American Education in Malaysia, Ethan has clear aspirations for a career in financial banking, while also exploring the possibilities of starting his own business or entering the trade industry.
Meet Alexis Bodlak
Major: Agricultural Communications
Hometown: Pender, NE
Interests, Internships, & Aspirations: Alexis has gained valuable internship experience in Washington, D.C. (twice), Lincoln, NE (twice), and Costa Rica! With a strong interest in agriculture, sustainable development, communications, and economics, Alexis is focused on building a career in international trade law, public and government affairs, and rural development.
