July 27, 2023
English Language Program hosts international Fulbright graduate students
This summer, the English Language Program at Kansas State University has welcomed 37 international Fulbright graduate students from 26 different countries. The scholars arrived at K-State to participate in the three-week Fulbright Pre-academic Program, which started on Monday, July 24. This activity is administered by the Institute of International Education.
One of the main emphases of the Fulbright program is to promote intercultural relations and competence between the people of the United States and other countries through the exchange of skills and knowledge. According to the Fulbright U.S. Student Program website, graduate students, scholars and young professionals from all over the world come to the U.S. to pursue a graduate degree and conduct research. The program "fosters mutual understanding between the United States and partner nations, shares knowledge across communities, and improves lives around the world."
The Fulbright group at K-State will attend courses taught by the English Language Program to improve their academic English writing and speaking skills and learn about the American educational culture. Colleagues from across campus also share their expertise through presentations and demonstrations to provide an exceptional K-State experience during the students' time on campus. Following the Pre-academic Program, the participants will travel to other universities across the country to begin work on master's and doctoral degrees.
While at K-State, the Fulbrighters will have the opportunity to experience a taste of the American Midwest. They will attend the Riley County Fair and Rodeo on Saturday, July 29, and visit Lazy Heart D Bison Ranch next week. Additionally, they will tour the Kansas State Capitol building and the Brown vs. Board of Education in Topeka. Throughout their stay, they will be accompanied by the English Language Program faculty members and student ambassadors, who will play a vital role in helping them get acquainted with American campus and city life.
This is the fourth time for the English Language Program to bring outstanding international Fulbright scholars to K-State and the Manhattan community. The English Language Program is grateful for the support of many incredible Friendship Families from Manhattan and the surrounding area who are ready to share their time, experience, knowledge and culture with this year's international students. The Friendship Families offer extra cultural experiences on the weekends and some evenings.
Follow along on the adventures at the English Language Program's Facebook page, @ELPKSU, and watch the K-State Instagram stories July 29 and Aug. 7 for an inside look into their visit.