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1. Q: Should my application be reviewed by somebody?

A: Absolutely.  If not me, preferably an alum of the Fulbright program that can mentor you.  I highly recommend this.

 

2. Q: When should I start my application?

A: Applying to Fulbright takes time and the application needs to be perfect.  I have started my applications at least 3 months in advance of the deadline.  Keep in mind the recommendation writers of your application need time to craft your letters (which also need to be excellent), thus they need at least an outline of your proposed project to complete this task.  Give them enough time to do so.

 

3. Q: Who reviews the applications with this service?

A: Only I, Dr. David Gracon reviews applications and conducts the workshops.  I do not employ anyone else to do this work for me at this time.  

 

4. Q: What happens if I am in your field of media/communications and you are also serving as an official Fulbright Scholar peer reviewer?

A: I will recuse myself of reviewing your application for Fulbright.  There will be no conflict of interest.

 

5. Q: Do you use AI in providing application feedback?

A: No.  I use my brain and years of experience as an academic, Fulbright Scholar/Specialist and official peer reviewer to assist your application.

 

6. Q: Should I use AI to write my Fulbright application? 

A: As of this writing, I personally wouldn’t.  You can use AI as a tool to assist with an outline.  However, I would give your application a soul and character by writing it yourself.  Otherwise, your application will not stand out amongst the others using AI.  I imagine this fall as I formally peer review for the Fulbright Scholar program we will be seeing more prominent AI usage.  We will no doubt see through this.

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7.  Q: What if I am not in the Media/Communications field?  Can you still review my application? 

A:  Yes.  While I may not be able to give specific advice on your specialized area of research/teaching, I can still make sure you are correctly framing/positioning yourself with the application.  I can also examine spelling/grammar, flow, completeness (all parts are answered), look for common blind spots, local fit, impact of project abroad and upon return, intercultural competence etc.  Also, I know a compelling project when I see it, regardless of the academic field.

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8. Q:  What specific areas of teaching/research expertise do you have?

A: My primary focus is critical media studies/communication studies.  My specialties include critical media literacy, mass communication, visual communication, digital media production, alternative media, experimental media, film studies, documentary film, cultural studies, critical theory, political economy of media, qualitative research methods (interviewing, ethnography, visual ethnography).  I also have backgrounds in sociology and leadership studies (servant leadership).  I could also serve journalism projects quite well.

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9. Q: Can I submit my application in small parts as I complete them?

A: No.  It is best for me to have a completed application sent to me as one whole package.  This means (and this can vary depending on the grant type) a project statement, CV, and various short answer questions etc.

 

10. Q: Can I pay you to write my application for me?

A: No.  You must submit a fully completed application, to the best of your ability closely following the Fulbright guidelines.  I do not write applications for clients.

 

11. Q: What if my application is rejected by Fulbright? 

A: There are many reasons why an application is rejected.  In fact, most applications will be rejected.  I would consult with me over the phone/Zoom or take my workshop to better understand how to prevent this.  Also, if you are rejected, try again the following year and get further consultation regarding your application materials to improve them.

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12. Q: Can you review other applications outside of Fulbright?

A: With this niche business my specialization and priority is Fulbright.  However, I can consider other organizations such as the Japan Exchange and Teaching Program (JET) (I am alum), U.S. Peace Corps (serving now remotely, part time), College/University Applications etc.  Give me an email to check in with this.

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