Isabelle Davis, who will receive a BA in international studies from the University of Iowa in May 2022, is the winner of a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship Award to Turkey for 2022-23.

Isabelle Davis

Hometown: LeClaire, Iowa
Award: 2022-23 Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship Award to Turkey
Degree: BA, international studies

Could you give me a brief synopsis of what you'll be doing with your Fulbright? 
I will teach English to university students in Turkey. I plan to establish online cultural exchanges, in-person English conversation hours, and an American culture club.

What drew you to this field of study? 
My interest in Turkey began when I befriended a group of Turkish students in 2016 while participating in the University of Iowa’s National Scholars Institute. My friends’ generosity and kindness encouraged me to learn their language to better connect with them and their culture. As an ETA, I hope to facilitate the development of my students’ English skills so that they too can discover connections between their country and the United States.  

How do you envision this will influence your life/future career? 
While an ETA, I will gain greater cross-cultural competence, Turkish literacy, and professional skills invaluable to my future studies, translations, and research on Turkic and Central Eurasian Studies.

"Besides the University of Iowa being the origin of my Turkish-language journey, the support I have received from its professors and staff led me to receive two Boren Awards and a Critical Language Scholarship. Their encouragement gave me the confidence to apply for the Fulbright."

What experiences at the UI inspired you to pursue a Fulbright? 
Besides the University of Iowa being the origin of my Turkish-language journey, the support I have received from its professors and staff led me to receive two Boren Awards and a Critical Language Scholarship. Their encouragement gave me the confidence to apply for the Fulbright.  

Are there individuals you'd like to thank for their investment in this process? 
Thank you to the University of Iowa’s International Programs staff and Fulbright Committee for their time reviewing my application and providing insightful advice. I thank Associate Director of International Fellowships Dr. Karen Wachsmuth who guided me through Fulbright and beyond. I would like to express gratitude to my recommenders: Director of International Studies Dr. Ari Ariel, Faculty Associate Dr. Nalan Erbil-erkan, and Associate Professor of Literary Translation Dr. Aron Aji. Thank you to my language evaluator, Ipek Sahinler, as well as to all my friends and family.

 Explore the many funding opportunities open 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).