Sarah Day, who received an MA in rehabilitation and counselor education from the University of Iowa in 2018, is the winner of a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship to Montenegro for 2021-22

Hometown: Vermillion, South Dakota
Award: 2021-22 Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship Award to Montenegro 
Degree: Masters in Rehabilitation and Counselor Education

Could you give me a brief synopsis of what you'll be doing with your Fulbright?  
I will be teaching English in a high school or university setting in Podgorica, Montenegro. 

What drew you to this field of study? 
I am passionate about serving youth and young adults. Whether it's in outdoor education, U.S. public schools and universities, or therapeutic contexts, I thrive when I'm working to expand people's abilities and experiences. I'm excited to expand my own abilities and experiences through my English teaching assistantship and learn about Montenegro's educational system.  

How do you envision this will influence your life/future career? 
I will be able to serve more youth and young adults with the English teaching skills I will learn in Montenegro. I'm particularly excited to work with English language learners in the U.S. when I return.

What advice do you have for future students interested in applying for a Fulbright?
My advice for future students applying for a Fulbright is to start early and be open to feedback. The application process is intense and can require months of writing, as well as multiple revisions for your essays. Dr. Wachsmuth does an amazing job of helping your voice shine in your application - be open to feedback and trust the process. 

Are there individuals you'd like to thank for their investment in this process?  
I'd like to thank the incredible Dr. Karen Wachsmuth for her energy, expertise, and belief in me during the 2020-21 and 2021-22 application processes. Thank you to Professor Bill Reisinger and Marie Hoppe for their time and helpful feedback for my application. Steve Silva, Tracy Arledge, and Dr. Nancy Langguth wrote thoughtful recommendations, and I am grateful for their support. My parents, David and Lynne Day, gave me the confidence to pursue challenging endeavors like the Fulbright application process. I could not have done this without them. Kevin Merry is the love of my life and is always up for an adventure. The feedback, long talks, excitement, and encouragement he provided me were integral to this dream becoming a reality.

Explore the many funding opportunities available to UI students and alumni

Students are encouraged to begin their funding searches and applications at least six months to one year in advance.  Schedule an advising appointment with Karen Wachsmuth to discuss your interest in an international fellowship or begin an application (as a UI undergraduate student, graduate student, or alumna/us).