Congratulations to NYU Abu Dhabi senior Alexander Wang, who has been awarded a 2014 Rhodes Scholarship. As NYUAD's first Rhodes Scholar, Wang will begin pursuing his postgraduate degree at the University of Oxford in the fall of next year.

• Member of NYU Abu Dhabi's Inaugural Class Named 2014 Rhodes Scholar (press release)
• New York University Abu Dhabi student a Rhodes scholar (Gulf News)

With this prestigious accomplishment, Wang, a Social Research and Public Policy major who focuses on exploring issues related to labor and migration, now follows in the footsteps of individuals including former US president Bill Clinton, astronomer Edwin Hubble, and the Nobel Prize-winning pharmacologist Lord Howard Florey, whose work led to the discovery of penicillin. "Being part of this incredible network of Scholars, and an intellectual pedigree that extends from the turn of the 20th century to now, feels incredible," Wang said.

Wang plans to continue studying the sociology of global migration at Oxford. "The core of my scholarship application focused on my development as a global citizen both at NYUAD and, eventually, at the University of Oxford," Wang said. "I want to understand how global migratory flows can be generative of a cosmopolitan ethic through the development of stronger institutions to manage individuals in flux between their place of origin and their place of work."

One of some 80 undergraduates around the world to receive a 2014 scholarship, Wang was recognized for his high academic achievement, integrity, respect for others, and potential for leadership. As NYUAD Vice Chancellor Al Bloom said, "Alex has built a record of stellar academic accomplishment at NYUAD. His exceptional intellect combines with the confidence and leadership skills of a historic agent of change, and his wisdom, compassion, and humility ensure that his contributions will help advance a more inclusive, just, and peaceful world."

Watch Wang speak about his award below.