Celebrating Fulbright: A Recap of NC State’s Fulbright Week
From March 25-28, 2024, NC State’s Office of Global Engagement, Office for Faculty Excellence, and University Fellowships Office teamed up to host an informative and engaging Fulbright Week, highlighting the various programs supported through the prestigious Fulbright program.
The week kicked off with daily Fulbright Information Drop-In Hours, where students, faculty, and staff could learn about the diverse opportunities offered by the Fulbright program.
On Tuesday, March 26, the Office for Faculty Excellence organized a Fulbright Faculty Panel Discussion, featuring faculty members who have received Fulbright Scholar awards. As explained by Kyle Miskell, Director of External Awards in the Office for Faculty Excellence, “Fulbright Week is an opportunity for us to highlight the program and share university resources for students, faculty, and staff. This year is especially exciting because we get to celebrate our recent recognition as a Top Producing Fulbright institution.”
The following day, Wednesday, March 27, was dedicated to both outgoing and incoming Fulbright students. The University Fellowships Office hosted information sessions on the U.S. Student Fulbright Program, which provides opportunities for American citizens to study, research, or teach abroad. “As a former Fulbright English Teaching Assistant to Germany, I know how life-changing the student program is, which is why I love working with NC State students on their own applications.” says Kristen Hetrick, Assistant Director in the University Fellowship Office. “If you are a student who is curious about studying, living, and working in another country after you graduate or even while you get your PhD, then we want to meet with you!”
Additionally, an Incoming Fulbright Student Information Session was co-presented by Steven Bergman, Director of Sponsored Student Programs at NC State, and Christine Chan, Assistant Director of Academic Placement (STEM Programs) at the Institute of International Education. This session was aimed at faculty, directors of graduate programs, and graduate services coordinators interested in working with incoming Fulbright foreign students. “Fulbright foreign students are instrumental in achieving NC State’s Goal 7: Elevate the national and global reputation and visibility. They enrich our campus, bringing valuable perspectives and fostering a diversity of thought that makes our university truly unique.” says Bergman.
The week culminated on Thursday, March 28, with a Networking Event for Students, Faculty, and Fulbright Alumni, sponsored by the Fulbright Association. Miskell highlights the importance of recognizing Fulbright alumni, “Our Fulbright alumni are the best advocates for the program, so it’s important to recognize them and give them an opportunity to connect with one another as well as with those who are interested in applying. The North Carolina Fulbright Association offers a great way for Fulbright alumni to connect, including those who might not have participated in the program but are interested.'”
Overall, Fulbright Week at NC State provides a comprehensive overview of the Fulbright program and its various opportunities, while also fostering connections and collaborations within the university’s Fulbright community.
Courtney Hughes, Director in the University Fellowship Office, encourages all students to seek support from the University Fellowship Office. “Our office helps all students – both graduate and undergraduate – as well as alumni apply for this prestigious award, assisting with country selection, essay development, editing, and interviewing. In fact, the next cycle of Fulbright is officially open, so don’t delay! Schedule an appointment today with one of our advisors.”