Kolkata: The United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) hosted a two-day pre-departure orientation in Kolkata for the new batch of Indian Fulbright-Nehru, Fulbright-Kalam and other Fulbright Fellows.

For the 2023-2024 academic year, USIEF has selected 157 Indian Fulbright Fellows for study, research, teaching, and professional development in the United States.

The Fulbrighters, drawn from across India, will pursue projects in a variety of disciplines including agriculture, anthropology, climate, education, energy, history, political science, public health, science and technology, urban and regional planning, and women studies, among others.

Current U.S. Fulbright scholars in India and Indian Fulbright alumni led panel discussions and small group sessions designed to help ease the transition to the academic, social, and cultural environment of the United States.

Topics covered over the two-days included discussions around life on a U.S. campus, cultural adjustment and cross-cultural communication, and health and safety. The orientation also helped stimulate thought about Fulbrighters’ responsibilities as cultural ambassadors.

Consul General Melinda Pavek delivered the opening address at the inaugural session.

She highlighted the importance of educational and cultural exchanges as an essential part of the U.S.-India bilateral relationship.        

Adam Grotsky, Executive Director, USIEF, congratulated the scholars on their accomplishments and encouraged them to take full advantage of this opportunity by immersing themselves in their universities, academic departments, and labs, as well as engaging in their wider communities.

USIEF is currently inviting applications for Fulbright Fellowships for the 2024-25 academic year. Prospective applicants can visit www.usief.org.in for complete details.