This topic was a request, and I’ll admit I’m uneasy. My gut (I’m writing this from the airport, and I’m quite nervous) tells me I’m not really prepared, so giving advice or sharing my preparation practices seems indulgent. I believe you can never be fully prepared because you don’t really know what to expect when exploring a new culture! Perhaps if you also think I’m not ready, you can use this as a guide of what not to do.
I’ve known I was a Fulbright Scholar for nine months now. It didn’t really sink in until I attended the orientation, when Fulbrighters from all over the world gathered for a four-day session. I used the tools they provided and also tried to figure out what skills and experiences I lacked to help inform my preparation practices.
1. My volunteer activities matched my proposed project. Volunteering with refugees as they first arrive in America gave me confidence in my ability to handle unpredictable situations and deal effectively with ambiguity. It also gave me a great network of like-minded people.
2. I attended events and conferences relevant to international development, education, and workforce readiness. I was able to get ideas for what’s worked around the world, and socialize my own theories. I was fortunate that the city I lived in was a hub for those events.
3. I asked a ton of questions. I wanted to learn as much as possible about classroom management, cultural nuances, and gender roles. I still have a bunch of questions, though. That list is never-ending.
4. I explored options and considered what is next for me. The world is a very big place, and I am blessed/cursed with having a lot of diverse interests. I’m very fortunate that my employer offered a leave of absence, so I can return to my job after my Fulbright.
Sorry for not having a more exciting update– I can’t wait to share all of my travels with you very soon.
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