Helpful and Patient: My Experience with Drexel's Undergraduate Research and Enrichment Programs (UREP)

When I applied for an English Teaching Assistantship with the Fulbright U.S. Student Program, I was no stranger to the Pennoni Honors College. I had been a member since my first year at Drexel, taking Honors classes, residing in the Honors Living-Learning Community, serving on panels for prospective students, and more.

Towards the end of my third year, I saw the opportunity to apply for a Fulbright grant in a Pennoni email. I was familiar with Fulbright, and it sounded like an incredible experience, but I didn't really believe it was something I was qualified for. Clearly, I proved myself wrong, and that was in large part thanks to Drexel's Undergraduate Research and Enrichment Programs (UREP).

I will be forever grateful to my advisors and all of UREP for their patience, guidance, and support of my Fulbright application. I would not be living my dream of teaching English in the Canary Islands without them!

UREP guided me through every step of the (lengthy) Fulbright application from start to finish. My advisors helped me decide which country (Spain) and program (English Teaching Assistantship) would be the best fit for me, whom I should ask for recommendations, and more. My essays were reviewed by multiple staff members, who gave me specific, helpful feedback. My advisors graciously allowed me to schedule as many meetings as I wanted, talking me through every brainstorm and idea, no matter how good or bad. The UREP staff didn't just glance at my application; they immersed themselves in it, learning about my life and questioning why this experience was so appealing to me. I trusted my advisors deeply and knew I could go to them with any question or concern.

When I was chosen for a Fulbright grant, UREP shared my excitement. They celebrated and congratulated me and connected me with past Fulbright grantees. They knew what this accomplishment meant to me because they had taken the time to get to know me and my story. I will be forever grateful to my advisors and all of UREP for their patience, guidance, and support of my Fulbright application. I would not be living my dream of teaching English in the Canary Islands without them!