Fulbright–INNpulsa Innovation Route Scholarship Scholar Gina Marcela Bobadilla Torres from Colombia Shares Her Journey of Securing a Partially Funded Master's at the Temple University, United States

My name is Gina Marcela Bobadilla Torres, and I am from Bogotá, Colombia. I currently work as a Corporate Development Manager at Avianca, one of the largest airlines in Latin America, where I lead strategic initiatives, transformation projects, and cross-functional programs.

My academic journey began at Universidad de los Andes, where I earned dual undergraduate degrees in Industrial Engineering and Business Administration. Throughout my career, I have developed a strong interest in project management, business transformation, and innovation. While working as a consultant, I witnessed firsthand how innovation could help organizations adapt, grow, and create value. This sparked my desire to pursue graduate studies in innovation and entrepreneurship.

In 2019, I was awarded the Fulbright scholarship called: Innovation Route, and I began the Master of Science in Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship at Temple University’s Fox School of Business in Philadelphia, United States. I chose this field because I wanted to better understand how organizations can foster innovation, create sustainable growth, and remain competitive in rapidly changing environments. My long-term goal was to bring that knowledge back to Colombia and help organizations strengthen their innovation capabilities and strategic execution.

Fulbright–INNpulsa Innovation Route Scholarship Details

I was awarded the Fulbright–INNpulsa Innovation Route Scholarship in 2018. Through this scholarship, I pursued a Master of Science in Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship at Temple University’s Fox School of Business.

The scholarship provided approximately 10,000 USD in funding, including support for living expenses, round-trip airfare, TOEFL and GRE testing costs, and academic advising throughout the university application process. In addition, Temple University awarded me an approximately 70% tuition scholarship as a Fulbright scholar. I had to cover some of the living expenses with extra loans. I highly recommend MPower as a source to get access to funds as a grad student.

Educational Background

I hold two undergraduate degrees from Universidad de los Andes in Colombia:

• Industrial Engineering (2011) – GPA: 4.10/5.00
• Business Administration (2013) – GPA: 4.21/5.00

I am also a certified Project Management Professional (PMP).

My educational background provided me with a strong foundation in business strategy, operations, project management, and organizational development. Engineering taught me how to analyze complex problems and design solutions, while Business Administration strengthened my understanding of strategy, leadership, and decision-making. Together, these disciplines prepared me well for graduate studies focused on innovation, entrepreneurship, and business transformation.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Temple University?

I began by researching universities across the United States that offered master's programs focused on innovation, entrepreneurship, and innovation management. Since I already knew that innovation was the field in which I wanted to build my career, I focused my search on programs that combined business strategy, entrepreneurship, corporate innovation, and practical application.

I evaluated each program based on several factors, including curriculum design, faculty expertise, university rankings, program reputation, and overall cost. I wanted to find a program that would not only provide a strong academic foundation but also equip me with practical tools to help organizations become more innovative and competitive.

Temple University was one of my preferred options from the beginning because of the strong alignment between its Master of Science in Innovation Management and Entrepreneurship and my professional goals. I also applied to other institutions, including the University of Delaware, Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), Northwestern University, and Purdue University, among others.

Preparing the university applications took approximately two to three months. However, much of that work was built upon the essays and application materials I had already developed for the Fulbright selection process, which itself took about six months of preparation. Having a clear academic and professional vision helped me tailor my applications efficiently while maintaining consistency across all institutions.

How Did You Find Information About Fulbright–INNpulsa Innovation Route Scholarship and Temple University?

I discovered the Fulbright–INNpulsa Innovation Route Scholarship through professional networks and online research. At the time, I was actively looking for opportunities to pursue graduate studies abroad in innovation and entrepreneurship, and the program immediately caught my attention because it combined academic excellence, international exposure, and a strong commitment to generating impact in Colombia.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

Yes. As part of the application process, I took both the TOEFL and the GRE. I only took each exam once.

At the time, I was working full-time, so preparation required careful planning. I primarily used free online resources, including YouTube video series, practice exercises, and sample tests. In addition, I requested one week off from work and dedicated myself entirely to studying for both exams.

My TOEFL score was 600/677 (TOEFL ITP), and my GRE scores were:

• Verbal Reasoning: 153
• Quantitative Reasoning: 154
• Analytical Writing: 4.5

Looking back, I learned that while test scores are important, they are only one component of a strong application. Essays, professional experience, leadership potential, and clarity of purpose are equally important factors in scholarship selection.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Fulbright–INNpulsa Innovation Route Scholarship?

The Fulbright application process was both exciting and demanding. From the moment I started preparing until receiving the final result, the entire process took approximately nine months.

The most challenging part was not the exams or the paperwork; it was finding the right story to tell. I spent a significant amount of time reflecting on my professional journey, my motivations, and the impact I wanted to create through innovation. Writing the essays required a great deal of self-awareness because I wanted them to be authentic, compelling, and aligned with my long-term goals.

Another challenging stage was the interview process. I participated in an in-person panel interview with four experts in innovation and representatives associated with the Fulbright program. The discussion focused on my interest in innovation, the academic program I wanted to pursue, and, most importantly, how I planned to apply that knowledge upon returning to Colombia.

One of the core principles of the Fulbright program is promoting mutual understanding and cooperation between countries. Therefore, the committee was interested not only in what I wanted to learn in the United States, but also in how I would use that knowledge to contribute to my country afterward. I believe they were evaluating the clarity of my purpose, my commitment to creating impact, and the alignment between my past experience, my academic goals, and my future plans.

Looking back, I would say that preparing for Fulbright was not only an application process, it was also a personal exercise in defining who I wanted to become professionally and how I could contribute to my community and my country.

How is Your Experience at Temple University?

My experience at Temple University was incredibly positive. One of the things I appreciated most was how welcome I felt from the moment I arrived. Temple has a strong culture of inclusion and a genuine appreciation for students who come from different countries and backgrounds. As an international student, that support made a significant difference in my transition to life in the United States.

Academically, I found the learning environment to be different from what I had experienced in Colombia. Classes were highly interactive and focused on discussion, critical thinking, and practical application. Professors encouraged students to ask questions, challenge ideas, and actively participate in conversations. I also felt that classroom time was used very efficiently, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and problem-solving.

My cohort was very diverse. Approximately half of the students were from the United States, while the other half were international students from different parts of the world. Beyond my program, Temple had a large international student community, which made it easier to connect with people who were going through similar experiences, being away from home, adapting to a new culture, and in many cases studying in a language that was not their native one.

Those friendships and shared experiences became one of the most valuable parts of my time abroad. They helped me broaden my perspective, learn from different cultures, and build relationships that extended far beyond the classroom.

How Do You Rate Temple University Academically?

I would rate Temple University very highly from an academic perspective. One of the strengths of the program was its balance between theory and practice. The courses were designed not only to teach concepts but also to help students apply them to real-world business challenges.

The professors brought a combination of academic expertise and industry experience, which enriched classroom discussions and allowed students to understand how innovation and entrepreneurship are implemented in practice. I particularly appreciated the emphasis on teamwork, case discussions, and problem-solving, as these closely reflected the challenges professionals face in their careers.

The program also encouraged students to think critically, challenge assumptions, and explore different perspectives, all of which are essential skills for leaders working in innovation and business transformation.

How Does Temple University Support International Students?

Temple University provides significant support for international students. From orientation programs to student organizations and dedicated support services, the university creates an environment where international students can integrate successfully into campus life.

One of the aspects I appreciated most was the strong international community. There were many opportunities to connect with students from different countries, participate in cultural events, and build friendships with people facing similar challenges and opportunities.

Having access to a diverse international network made the transition much easier and helped create a sense of belonging, even while being thousands of miles away from home.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English?

All classes were conducted entirely in English.

As a non-native English speaker, there was certainly an adjustment period at the beginning. However, because the program was designed to welcome students from different countries, professors and classmates were very supportive. Over time, studying and interacting in English became increasingly natural and helped me strengthen my communication skills in an international environment.

For students considering a similar experience, I would encourage them not to be intimidated by studying in a second language. While it may feel challenging initially, the learning curve is manageable, and the experience ultimately becomes one of the most valuable aspects of studying abroad.

What Did You Pursue After the Fulbright–INNpulsa Innovation Route Scholarship?

At the time I received the scholarship, I was working at RSM, a consulting firm in Colombia. During my studies, RSM continued to employ me on a part-time basis, which allowed me to maintain my connection with the organization while completing my master's degree. After graduating from Temple University, I returned to Colombia and resumed my work with the firm, taking on a role with greater responsibilities.

A few months later, I was approached by another organization and accepted a position as a Senior Project Manager, which represented a significant step forward both professionally and financially. Since then, I have continued to grow my career in project management, innovation, and strategic transformation. Today, I serve as Corporate Development Manager at Avianca, one of the largest airlines in Latin America.

Looking back, I see a direct connection between my experience at Temple University and the way I approach my work today. The program exposed me to different perspectives, cultures, and ways of thinking, which taught me the importance of listening, collaboration, and understanding viewpoints that differ from my own. That global mindset has been invaluable throughout my career.

While the academic knowledge was certainly important, I would say that the greatest return on my Fulbright experience has been the professional growth and the relationships I built along the way. The network extends far beyond professional contacts; it includes friendships, mentors, and meaningful human connections from around the world.

Perhaps the most important lesson I learned is that, regardless of where we come from or where we were born, people everywhere share many of the same aspirations: to learn, to grow, to contribute, and to build a better future for their communities. That perspective has stayed with me long after graduation and continues to influence both my personal and professional life.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out because it demonstrated a clear connection between my past experiences, my academic goals, and the impact I hoped to create in the future.

Before applying, I had already begun working on innovation initiatives in my professional career. I had helped launch innovation programs, coordinate ideation initiatives, and support organizations in developing new capabilities. The master's degree was not a completely new direction for me, it was the natural next step in a journey I had already started.

I also believe that having a clear vision for how I wanted to use the knowledge after returning to Colombia was important. Fulbright is not only looking for strong students; it is looking for people who will use what they learn to contribute to their communities and countries. I was genuinely passionate about helping Colombian organizations become more innovative, competitive, and prepared for the future.

Finally, I think authenticity played a significant role. Rather than trying to present a perfect profile, I focused on telling my story honestly, explaining what had shaped my interests, what motivated me, and what I hoped to achieve in the future.

Looking Back, Would You Have Done Anything Differently During Your Time in the Program?

If I were going through the process again, I would focus on making the most of every opportunity available during the scholarship experience.

Academically, I was fully committed to my studies, but looking back, I would have attended even more events, participated in additional activities, and invested more time in meeting people from different backgrounds. Studying abroad offers much more than classroom learning; it provides access to a unique community of students, professors, professionals, and leaders from around the world.

The experience goes by very quickly, and I would encourage future scholars to take advantage of every opportunity available, both inside and outside the classroom. The relationships, conversations, and experiences often become just as valuable as the degree itself.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

My biggest piece of advice is simple: trust your profile and apply.

Many people believe that scholarships are only for extraordinary geniuses or individuals with perfect academic records. In reality, every applicant has a unique story, accomplishments they can be proud of, and experiences that make them different. Do not underestimate the value of your own journey.

The worst outcome is receiving a "no." If that happens, you can continue strengthening your profile and apply again in the future. What you should not do is reject yourself before giving the selection committee the opportunity to evaluate your application.

I would also encourage applicants to be aware of impostor syndrome. It is very common to compare ourselves to others and feel that we are not qualified enough. I certainly understand that feeling. However, learning to recognize your strengths, acknowledge your achievements, and appreciate the value you bring is an important part of the process.

Finally, be authentic. Scholarship committees read hundreds of applications. Your goal should not be to become the person you think they want to select. Instead, focus on clearly communicating who you are, what you care about, and how you hope to make a positive impact through the opportunities you receive.