Hi everyone!
Recently, I received the news from Fulbright that I have been ‘selected’ as an alternate candidate for the Fulbright Foreign Student Program, to pursue a graduate study in the US. Simultaneously, I have been offered admission to two Master’s programs in the US, and both institutions will be able to offer me substantial scholarships. In addition, I’ve been selected for other (somewhat less substantial) scholarships. I can hear you think: “what’s the problem?! That’s terrific news!”
Well indeed, I’m thrilled and very grateful to have come this far. However, coming from a low-income family, my Fulbright alternate status leaves a big hole in my budget, making it financially impossible to pursue a graduate study in the US, even though I’ve been able to attract multiple scholarships.
I’m wondering if some of you have similar experiences. What did you do in this situation? Should I inform the grad schools I’ve been offered admission to about my alternate status and the financial deficit it creates? Or should I just take out a loan, and stop drawing my attention to the Fulbright Scholarship?
(Apparently, chances are high that some alternates will be promoted to being a Fulbright finalist. I will hear so before May)
Thanks!