How I Secured a Partially Funded PhD at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, United States Through the Fulbright Scholarship

My name is Kyriaki (like teriyaki but with a “k”) Chatzikyriakidou, and I am a Greek Fulbright scholar who recently completed my home residency while living and working in my hometown, Thessaloniki.

Fulbright Scholarship Details

In 2010, I also received a Fulbright scholarship for graduate studies in the USA. Back then, there were two categories of scholars, and I was awarded one of the scholarships in the second category, which was a fixed amount (about 8K).

With this scholarship, I was almost instantly accepted for a PhD in Food Science at the University of Wisconsin – Madison, which is a top US research university.

Educational Background

I studied Food Science and Technology at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, and I was awarded my Bachelor’s in 2008 and Master’s in 2010. In Greece, instead of GPA, there is a 10-point system, so 10/10 is a 4.0 GPA. My BSc grade was 8.0/10 and MSc 8,48/10, both considered to be “excellent performance.”

The Fulbright scholarship I received was grade-based, and only applications with a minimum grade of 8.0 (of the BSc grade) were given consideration.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Wisconsin–Madison?

There was nobody in my family or relatives who had gone through something similar, so I was searching online and trying to find an academic advisor who would do research on food-borne pathogens, because that’s what I wanted to focus on.

How Did You Find Information About Fulbright Scholarship and University of Wisconsin–Madison?

This is how I actually came across the Fulbright Program: I learned about it as I was searching for information on various US institutions

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

I had to take the TOEFL and GRE, since these were required by UW-Madison. Regarding TOEFL, I read a couple of books by myself before I sat for the exam. I had already passed the exams for the English Proficiency degree, so it was not very difficult. Regarding GRE, I attended a short course along with other students who were preparing for this exam. I remember I had to study hard for that one!

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Fulbright Scholarship?

I was preparing for US studies in general, while pursuing my Master’s degree, so my schedule was pretty packed. I remember I was working late at night on applications, which might not be the best, but sometimes the only choice. I think it’s important to be very focused and relaxed, so you can think about the motivation letter and the impact of your research/education.

How is Your Experience at the University of Wisconsin–Madison?

With one word: AMAZING. I always wanted to travel abroad and meet other people, not only researchers but in extracurricular activities as well. UW-Madison is a top university with intelligent professors and nice people. It inspired me every day to become better and I will always be proud to be a Badger!

How Does the University of Wisconsin–Madison Support International Students?

Regarding Fulbright scholars, there is usually a Fulbright advisor with office hours, etc. I was communicating directly with them for any VISA or other documentation. There were also Fulbright conferences taking place in different US cities (all expenses covered), and I met several other Fulbright scholars from all over the world. You will make some long-lasting friendships!

What Did You Pursue After the Fulbright Scholarship?

I am a researcher in two different fields, food science and biology education, and also a part-time faculty. Pursuing a PhD in the US offered me the chance to teach undergraduate courses, and since then I haven’t stopped teaching.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

During the Fulbright scholarship interview, there were a lot of questions about my ethos and the societal impact of my research and work. I was very young then (about 24 yo), but I tried my best and gave honest answers.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

Literally nothing!

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

If you can see the growth in you by solving problems and sharing, you will succeed. Scholarships are given to determined people.