Fellowship Spotlight: Fulbright Study/Research in London

Why did you apply for Fulbright?

I applied for Fulbright for a chance to broaden my knowledge of health systems by studying at a university in a different country with a different health system than that of the United States. I particularly chose Imperial College London because I wanted to explore the city of London and see how the National Health Services (NHS) provides care based on clinical need, rather than ability to pay in an urban setting with people of different demographics and backgrounds. I appreciated that through the application I was able to tailor my own interests to the application with the guidance of many professors and staff such as Patty Kelly, Anna West, Jason Chan, and Zolani.

What have you learned about yourself and/or the world through your Fulbright experience so far?

Through my Fulbright experience, I have learned that the world is very different outside of my bubble in the United States. Anything ranging from people’s opinions to their way of life is starkly unique, and there is something to be learned from each person I encounter throughout my journey. For example, I have been in several group projects throughout my master’s program, and in one of them I learned the merits and cons of a public healthcare system (i.e. the NHS) and a private healthcare system (i.e. in the US). Because my course is full of international students that have their own unique experiences in the healthcare system, I was able to hear their opinions about their respective health systems as well as what could be done to improve them.

What has been a memorable moment or unexpected experience?

Some of my most memorable moments would have to be making friends in London and experiencing London through their lens rather than my own. Thanks to them, I have been able to see places and taste foods in London that are not generally advertised, which has made my experience unique so far. For example, I have been to many Caribbean restaurants in South London that are more analogous to foods I enjoy in the US, which is amazing because they are not the typical restaurants advertised for visitors to the UK. Also, I have been to secret attractions like the Ancient Market Place and Kew Palace that my friends know more about as residents of London. Additionally, I spent Christmas with a friend and his family in the countryside of England, ate very interesting foods, and participated in their Christmas traditions.

What advice or encouragement do you have for prospective applicants?

I would have to say give the application your best shot! To me, that means honing in on something you’re really passionate about, expanding upon it, and really selling why and how you’re going to take advantage of this opportunity. And you don’t have to do it alone! Take advantage of trusted professors and staff at Haverford and ask them for help with essays, brainstorming ideas, etc. Also, try to get the gears turning on every aspect as early as possible so that you’re not crunching for time towards the deadline. Most importantly, don’t stress about it too much. Do the best you can with this application and send it out knowing that whatever happens is meant to happen. Additionally, having some back-up plans really gave me peace of mind as well! Jason and other advisors of mine were really helpful with that!