Maria Osman, who received a BA in international studies from the University of Iowa in 2022, is the winner of a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Award to Indonesia for 2024-25. 
 
Hometown: Iowa City, Iowa 
Degree: BA, international studies (Islamic & Middle Eastern world studies), certificate in human rights 
 
Could you give us a brief synopsis of what you'll be doing with your Fulbright? 
I will be teaching English to high school students in Indonesia! I will also be establishing two projects as a part of my Fulbright award (one where I will create an English art club and another where I will create an American literature and film club). 
 
How do you envision this will influence your life/future career? 
After my time in Indonesia, I plan to obtain my master’s in international development where I will focus on project development and research in rural communities. This award will provide me with the adaptability, flexibility, leadership skills, and international experience needed to work in the development field. 
 
What advice do you have for future students interested in applying for a Fulbright? 
I had thought that an English Teaching Assistant (ETA) was only for those wanting to teach English as a career, but I learned that that isn’t the case at all, and you can learn so much from being an ETA that will benefit your career. Aside from that, they also offer other grants to conduct research, study, or creative grants as well. Even if you don’t think you’re qualified or you won’t get it, you should still apply and when you do, make sure to meet the priority deadline and keep editing your essays. I know the priority deadline is optional, but it makes a difference to submit it by then. 
 
Were there experiences at the UI that inspired you to pursue a Fulbright? 
While I was applying to study abroad at Iowa, I received the Gilman scholarship. After this, I learned that Meredith Gall (my advisor) had nominated me for Fulbright. I had only heard about Fulbright and didn’t know what it was, but after looking into it, I realized it was the perfect opportunity.  
 
Are there individuals you'd like to thank for their investment in this process? 
Of course! I would love to thank Karen Wachsmuth for helping me with the application process and Ari Natarina for meeting with me so much to help me with editing my essays and evaluating my Indonesian language level. I’d also like to thank my recommenders: Asma Ben Romdhane (my Arabic teacher), Kristine Djerf (who was my study abroad advisor), and Meredith Gall (my degree advisor). 
 
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International Programs (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement.  IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research. IP shares their stories through various media, and by hosting multiple public engagement activities each year.