Olivia Dunn, who will receive an MA in linguistics from the University of Iowa in May 2023, is the winner of a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship Award to Morocco for 2023-24.
Hometown: Waverly, Iowa
Degree: MA, linguistics (TESL focus)
Could you give us a brief synopsis of what you'll be doing with your Fulbright?
I will be teaching English at a university in Morocco. I will also have the chance to be involved with a community organization at my placement.
How do you envision this will influence your life/future career?
In the long term, I plan to pursue a PhD in second language education. I’m hoping to keep working in higher education, so I am very excited for the chance to gain more teaching experience and learn more about Morocco’s education system!
What advice do you have for students interested in applying for a Fulbright?
Even if you aren’t completely sure you want to apply for Fulbright, attend an informational meeting. It will only take an hour, and Iowa has some great Fulbright events throughout the year.
Were there experiences at the UI that inspired you to pursue a Fulbright?
At Iowa, I have had the chance to work as a graduate instructor in the Department of Rhetoric. Teaching rhetoric has greatly increased my confidence as an instructor, and it showed me that I really enjoy teaching college-level writing and speaking. In combination with my studies in linguistics here at Iowa, applying for the Fulbright ETA program felt like a good fit.
Are there individuals you'd like to thank for their investment in this process?
I would like to thank Karen Wachsmuth, Ari Natarina, and International Programs for supporting me throughout the application process. I also want to thank my academic advisor Christine Shea, my rhetoric teaching mentor Dana Thomann, and my former AmeriCorps supervisor Lisa Lambert; their recommendations and advice were absolutely invaluable to my application. Finally, I want to thank Allison Adrian, Mysee Chang, and Joanne Cavallaro from St. Catherine University, as they helped me develop a passion for language and interest in international education while I was an undergraduate.
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