Tips for Finding your Fulbright Affiliate
Melissa’s Tips for Crafting a Successful Fulbright Application: Part 4
One requirement for Fulbright applicants proposing a research project is to find an affiliate. An affiliate is typically an instructor at an institution of higher learning, most often a university professor. I found connecting with my affiliate to be one of the most important and intimidating components of the Fulbright application. Especially if you have never been to the country or only visited briefly, how will you connect with a professor?!
Start with your academic network. Does one of your professors know a professor in the country to which you are applying? Or, maybe they know someone who knows someone. Request an introduction!
Explore university programs in your field in your host country. Scour university websites for faculty in your field and reach out to them. Remember that especially in the summer months, it may take some time for them to respond. Be patient, and don’t be afraid to follow up.
Expand your network in the country. You will probably be hopeful that any new connection you make will be your affiliate. Even if they are not, ask them if they can introduce you to another professor or professional in your field.
Now for my story of how I connected with my affiliate…
One day while researching the Mexican composer Manuel M. Ponce, I came across the website of a non-profit organization run by a Mexican pianist who promotes Latin American classical music in the U.S. Naturally, I figured he would have numerous contacts in the classical music world in Mexico City. I emailed him (in Spanish): introducing myself, briefly explaining my interest in studying Mexican classical piano music, and asking if he could refer me to music programs in Mexico City. He promptly replied with a list of contacts for me to reach out to.
It took several tries, but I eventually connected with a professor who ended up agreeing to be my affiliate! I began by emailing any potential affiliate with a brief introduction and explanation of my project. When he responded, I asked if we could schedule a brief Zoom call for me to explain more, and he agreed. In the meeting, I described my project goals and what he would be agreeing to as an affiliate. I also explained the need for an affiliation letter and what it would entail.
Following the call, I sent an affiliation letter draft and asked him to complete it by editing as much as he preferred and adding the institution seal/letterhead.
As with most aspects of the Fulbright application, finding your affiliate requires starting early, taking your time, and having boatloads of patience! I hope these ideas are helpful in getting you started. Best of luck!
…and don’t forget: I am offering a limited number of Fulbright essay coaching sessions this summer.
See if I am a good fit for you and join the waiting list here!