Jeffrey Clark, who will receive a BA in English and history from the University of Iowa this May, is the winner of a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship Award to South Korea for 2019-20

Jeffrey Clark

Hometown: Lorton, Virginia
Award: 2019-20 Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship Award to South Korea
Degree: BA in English and history  

How do you envision this will influence your life/future career?  

My experience studying abroad through the University of Iowa was my biggest inspiration for actually pursuing a Fulbright. I am grateful for the opportunities I was given during my year of study abroad in South Korea which turned my sights outside the U.S. for a career. Fulbright will allow me to return to Korea for another year, this time as a teacher, gain more international experience, form amazing friendships, and help me pursue a career in the Foreign Service. 

What advice do you have for future students interested in applying for a Fulbright? 

My advice is: write the first draft as early as possible and then ask every single friend you trust to read over and work through your ideas with you. Meet with Karen Wachsmuth often -- there is no one at this school who has a better understanding of the Fulbright process than her -- and be prepared for the long haul. 

Are there individuals (professors, mentors, etc.) you'd like to thank for their investment in this process?  

I would like to thank Ed Zastrow for his continual support and invaluable advice through the Fulbright process, and of course for recommending I pursue one in the first place. If he did not connect me with Karen Wachsmuth, I would not have gotten nearly so far. I would also like to thank Professor Michaela-Hoenicke Moore for her encouraging and comforting words which helped me continue on despite thoughts of giving up. I would also like to thank Professor Kyong-Mi Kwon, who taught me about Korean modern literature and opened me up to an entirely new world of authors and history which I knew nothing about. (It's strange to think that a class that wonderful was almost canceled for lack of registrants; if you are considering studying abroad in South Korea at Ewha Womans University, strongly consider taking a class with Professor Kwon!). Finally, I would like to thank Professor Lori Branch, who is not only a beloved and amazing teacher, as anyone who has taken a class with her should know, but also a kind and bright person. 

I also am extremely appreciative of the many teachers in my high school years who were patient enough to deal with my teenage self, and who even liked me enough to take a special interest in my education. My former English teacher Ms. Dunne and my former history teachers Mr. Otterson and Father Michael are especially memorable. And how could I forget Father Peter! 

 

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).