Catherine Zimmerman
A senior Honors neuroscience major, Catherine Zimmerman has received a Fulbright Award to pursue research in public health at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark. “The research lab that I will be working in focuses on the genetic components of metabolic disorders like obesity, Type I and Type II diabetes from an epidemiological perspective,” said Zimmerman. “I will be exploring whether we can predict obesity rates based upon data from pregnant mothers.”
Zimmerman traveled to Denmark once before, as a UD student, taking courses in psychopharmacology, social psychology, neuroimaging, and European history. Outside of the classroom, she became inspired to pursue her research in public health. “I lived in a public health living-learning community, where we spent time exploring the similarities and differences between the U.S. and Danish healthcare systems,” she said. “I think I am most looking forward to that moment when I arrive back in Copenhagen. Leaving was incredibly difficult, but the ability to return to Denmark with Fulbright is a dream.”
Alternates
In addition to UD’s five Fulbright grantees, the following were also recognized:
- Elizabeth Huhn, Fulbright ETA alternate to South Korea
- Amanda Kasman, Fulbright Study/Research alternate to the Netherlands
- Markie Masucci, Fulbright ETA alternate to Spain
- Kiera McNeil, Fulbright Study/Research alternate to Spain
For Future Fulbrighters
For future applicants, this year’s recipients advise:
“Plan early. I had a couple of appointments with the Institute for Global Studies (IGS), and that was really helpful. I had already started working at the Writing Center and with the ELI to gain experience in teaching English. But from then on, I definitely started to think about how I could develop more relevant experience.” — Matthew Anderson
“Build your network. The first thing I wanted to do when I received my award was to thank everyone who had helped me during the process. As I was looking at the list, I realized that there were so many people who helped me — professors, mentors, IGS and Honors staff. There are so many connections out there who can give you advice, especially about Fulbright.” — Catherine Zimmerman
“Get to know yourself. Putting yourself into unknown territory with some limited support can be thrilling and terrifying. Once you learn that you can thrive in these environments, you’re ready for a program like Fulbright. Describing those experiences that prepared you will demonstrate that you are a great candidate who can make the most of such an opportunity.” — Leah Putman
“An interesting challenge of the Fulbright application is that we propose to do very specific work, but are reviewed by committees that are not necessarily experts in our field. You have to be careful not to include too much jargon, but to demonstrate your passion, experience, and interest in engaging with the host community.” — Isaac Messina
Interested students are invited to attend a Fulbright Interest Meeting on Tuesday, June 2 at 3:30 p.m. with UD alumna and Fulbright Alumni Ambassador, Gerti Wilson, and IGS Interim Director, Lisa Chieffo. Students and alumni hoping to apply during the fall of 2020 for a Fulbright Award are encouraged to meet UD’s priority deadline of July 10 in order to receive summer mentorship and advising. For more information, visit the IGS website.
About the Institute for Global Studies
The Institute for Global Studies (IGS) inspires and facilitates the pursuit of global understanding by developing innovative and inclusive programs of study, opportunities for experiential learning and strategic partnerships.
Perhaps best known for leading the nation’s first study abroad program, IGS is also home to the first-of-its-kind UD World Scholars Program and the Delaware Diplomats Scholarship Program. IGS supports student success through advising for prestigious awards, including Fulbright, Boren, Gilman and Critical Language Scholarships, as well as sponsorship of the International House (iHouse) Living Learning Community.
The Institute annually administers internationally-recognized State Department public diplomacy programs, bringing more than 75 young leaders from around the world to UD’s Newark campus.
IGS provides faculty funding for research and collaboration abroad, manages the University’s global partnerships and agreements process and sponsors signature events, such as UD Global Month and the Spring Fulbright Lecture Series.
Article by Nikki Laws; photos by Nikki Laws, Katerina Acuna and courtesy of Leah Putman and Catherine Zimmerman
Published May 29, 2020