Faces of Fulbright: MSU launches Fulbright Pathways website celebrating program alumni, championing future participants

Mississippi State’s International Research Development Office is announcing a new Fulbright Pathways website, a repository that builds upon decades of MSU’s Fulbright legacy and provides a central hub for interested campus community members.

The multimedia approach shares firsthand testimonials from faculty and administrators who have received past Fulbright awards and includes videos, stories, how-to instructions and services.  Campus leaders can explore the layers of support and connect for additional support.

Established in 1946, Fulbright is a flagship international exchange program that promotes mutual understanding across nations.

Provost and Executive Vice President David Shaw said the university encourages interested members to apply for Fulbright awards. “We have the opportunity to share what we are doing here at MSU on a global stage,” he said in reflection of his time as a Fulbright International Education Administrator awardee to France.

Professor David Hoffman, who directs MSU’s Office of Prestigious External Scholarships, shared how his International Education Administrator appointment to Germany helped scale his success in equipping students and “thinking about how to build connections between countries and between people,” he said.

Fulbright appointments for faculty and research administrators can range in length and geography.

• International Education Administrators -- a structured two-week appointment
• Fulbright Specialist program -- a 6-week/42-day appointment to fulfill specialized needs on project-based work
• Fulbright Scholar Program -- immerses participants in research and/or teaching opportunities for one to two semesters

“Fulbright was a transformational experience,” said Associate Vice President for Research Narcisa Pricope. “It gives you the ability to co-create not only at the project location, but long-lasting future opportunities for your research program as well as participating institutions.”

The International Research Development Office also is available to help with other program applications, from reviewing specific opportunities and identifying strategic fit to technical writing support and mock interviews with authentic interview questions.

“We are providing a platform for our Fulbright awardees to champion their teaching and research, showcase the excellence at MSU, and foster dialogue among the campus community to support future Fulbrighters,” said MSU International Institute Deputy Director Masey Smith.

Learn more at www.international.msstate.edu/faculty/fulbright-pathways. Faculty are encouraged to set up a personal Fulbright consultation, and administrators can learn about faculty and professional staff support by contacting Smith at mls524@msstate.edu.