Encouragement For Fulbright Applicants

Bandar Seri Begawan - Ten months have passed since I started life as a Fulbrighter in the US. However, the truth is, my Fulbright adventure actually started much earlier than that.

It began with the application process, which is once again accepting applications for the second Fulbright Graduate Studies Programme. I am therefore writing this article to give encouragement to everyone who is eligible to apply to give it their best shot, and to offer sound advice to those who are in the process of applying to not give up.

Firstly, it should be known that the Fulbright Brunei programme is only open to citizens and permanent residents of Brunei. I must also emphasise that the programme is for Masters level studies in any field that can contribute positively to our country.

The application process consists several stages. The first stage consists a preliminary application form, English language proficiency test and a statement of study interest. These materials are then reviewed by the Fulbright Selection Committee, and from there, the top few applicants are shortlisted for the second stage, which consists of interviews with the Selection Committee. It is only after the second stage that the top finalist will be selected.

The process, however, does not stop here, as there will be more forms to fill and exams to take. The whole application process must seem tedious and a long one to many.

My advice is to view these as a series of challenges that need to be tackled rather than a set of roadblocks that will make one stumble and fall. It is worthwhile to bear in mind here that Fulbright is not just a scholarship but also a leadership programme.

Everyone is held to the same international selection standards and requirements to see whether they have the necessary requirements and characteristics to be a Fulbrighter.

So if you are keen on becoming a Fulbright scholar, approach the whole process with perseverance, a positive attitude and a smile. I must say that the selected candidate will not regret going through the process - you will see what I mean later on.

For those who applied but were unsuccessful, you are right in being proud of yourselves for taking up this challenge.

And to all who applied, I say, `Good Job!' (this is an ubiquitous phrase which is used by Americans to congratulate each other, a characteristic which I find fascinating).

If you are still undecided about applying, I encourage you to apply. You never know, you could be the next Brunei Fulbrighter.

And to those who are in the process of applying, please do not be disheartened, it is not rocket science, it is just an application process. I look forward to meeting the next Fulbright Brunei scholar, and to him or her, I would like to say welcome to the club in advance! -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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