PhD Global and Comparative Education Student Ludmille Lyvert from Haiti Shares Her Journey of Studying in the United States, United States

I am Ludmille Lyvert, and I am from Haiti. I hold a master’s degree in Women’s Studies, and I am currently a Ph.D. student at Stanford University, pursuing a degree in Global and Comparative Education. I decided to pursue further education in this field because I am interested in exploring how education can serve as a catalyst for social transformation, particularly in the areas of citizenship and human rights education. I am especially interested in contexts characterized by ongoing crises and low-income settings.

Fulbright Scholarship Details

I received a Fulbright scholarship covering full tuition, a monthly stipend, and travel expenses for my master’s degree, as well as a fully funded research assistantship at the Stanford Graduate School of Education.

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

I also received the EDGE fellowship that provides, which provides funding for research, conference-related expenses and a summer stipend during the first year.

Educational Background

Prior to applying for Fulbright, I earned a bachelor’s degree in Education. This degree gave me a strong theoretical foundation in understanding how education can serve as a space for social transformation. As a Fulbright recipient, I completed a master’s degree in Women’s Studies. Together, these experiences strengthened my theoretical background and gave me the confidence and legitimacy to formulate meaningful research questions.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Alabama?

For the Fulbright scholarship, I learned about it through peers and the official website.

For Stanford, I found information on their website indicating that the program is fully funded upon admission. The EDGE Fellowship was awarded to me in recognition of my academic achievements.

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

Standardized tests were not the most decisive factor in my case. However, as an international student, I took the TOEFL to demonstrate my proficiency in English. These scores were important for admission to U.S. universities.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Fulbright Scholarship?

To prepare for the scholarships I received (except for EDGE), I carefully reviewed the requirements and guidelines on institutional websites and participated in webinars to better understand expectations, including the “unwritten rules,” at least six months before the deadlines. I prepared all required documents, including personal statements and study plans. For Stanford, the application also required a writing sample. I sought guidance from academics in my field to strengthen these materials and asked peers to assist with proofreading. Another important aspect was translating my diplomas and transcripts and having them evaluated according to U.S. standards. Not preparing these documents on time could have jeopardized my applications.

How Is (was) Your Experience at the University of Alabama?

My experience as a Fulbright recipient was very positive, especially because I was able to focus on my studies without financial stress. At Stanford, although I work as part of my assistantship, there is a clear agreement on reasonable working hours as a full-time student. This balance allows me to develop new skills while still having time for coursework and personal interests.

How Do You Rate the University of Alabama Academically and Why?

Fulbright is a globally recognized scholarship that provides access to accredited institutions in the United States. In my case, I attended the University of Alabama, where I had a rich academic experience that prepared me for doctoral studies and further opportunities.

Stanford University is one of the most prestigious institutions in the world. I have access to leading scholars in my field, and one of Stanford’s defining characteristics is its strong emphasis on interdisciplinarity, both within departments and across the university. This exposure to diverse perspectives greatly enriches my work and intellectual curiosity.

How Does the University of Alabama Support International Students?

Both Fulbright and Stanford provide strong support for international students. In my experience, this includes guidance on immigration matters, opportunities to build networks with other international students (and local communities, in Stanford’s case), and access to mental health resources.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

While I had strong academic performance and degrees from accredited institutions, I believe my application stood out because of my more than five years of professional experience in my field. These experiences shaped a genuine curiosity about my area of study, and I believe this authenticity came through clearly in my application materials.

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

If I were to go through the process again, I would reach out more intentionally to previous scholarship recipients. Learning from their experiences, especially what they would have done differently, could have helped me better navigate opportunities and maximize the benefits of the scholarships.

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

My advice is simple : plan early. Do not wait until the last minute, as unexpected challenges may arise and take months to resolve. Planning ahead also gives you the time needed to develop a strong and competitive application.