OSU seeks to enhance participation in Fulbright Program

Friday, February 29, 2008

by Chase Harvick

Information sessions are being offered for Oklahoma State University students interested in becoming international scholars through the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs Fulbright Program. Simultaneously, the university continues its legacy as host to visiting Fulbright Scholars from around the world.

Following decades of conflict, U.S. Sen. J. William Fulbright of Arkansas in the wake of World War II sought to promote mutual understanding between the United States and other countries through the exchange of persons, knowledge and skills. He encouraged Congress to bring the world’s best and brightest to the United States and send abroad America’s top scholars. Created in 1948, the program now administers hundreds of millions of dollars in support each year and has enabled almost 280,000 scholars to participate in enriching cultural and learning experiences.

OSU is currently host to 10 Fulbright Scholars.

“There is probably no organization more widely recognized worldwide than Fulbright, and by associating ourselves with its programs, we are ensuring that we are dealing with the best of the best,” said Karen Sebring, coordinator of Sponsored Student Programs in the International Student and Scholars office. “Not only are Fulbright scholars a huge asset to our university and community, but they also elevate our status on the international arena.”

Fulbright Scholar Tee-Jay San Diego is from the Philippines and is at OSU working on his masters in environmental science. In the Philippines, he was employed by a government agency that oversees fisheries and aquatic resources.  

“This is the greatest accomplishment in my life so far,” San Diego said. “I never imaged being here.”

Fulbright scholars are enrolled in many OSU colleges, but the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources remains the most popular.

“The ag college is very supportive of Fulbrighters, and many come from developing countries where agriculture knowledge is particularly applicable,” Sebring said.

In addition to hosting scholars, OSU is working to increase the number of its own students who apply for and receive the prestigious honor. Steve Hallgren, Fulbright Program adviser, hopes to increase awareness among administrators, faculty, students and staff members of the diverse opportunities available for individuals to become Fulbright Scholars.

Upcoming Fulbright information sessions Hallgren will present for students are scheduled for March 12 at 7 p.m. and April 2 at 12:30 p.m. in 123 Business Building. Competition for 2008-09 Fulbright awards begins May 1. For more information about the Fulbright Program or the application process, contact Hallgren at steve.hallgren@okstate.edu or 405-744-6805.