Karachi Native Earns Fulbright Scholarship to Study Psychology at The New School in New York

I’m Nabiha Nadeem, born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan. I’ve always been curious about why people do what they do and how we can use psychology to help people make better choices for themselves and their communities. I’m drawn to the intersection of psychology, research, and policy. At the core of my work is a simple motivation: to use the privileges and education I’ve received to improve the lives of those who’ve had fewer opportunities than I have.

Fulbright Scholarship Details

I received the Fulbright Scholarship to pursue an MA in Psychology at The New School in New York. The Fulbright Scholarship covers full tuition fees and a living stipend.

Educational Background

I studied Social Sciences with a major in Psychology at IBA, Karachi. It was here that my interdisciplinary journey began. I was exposed to diverse fields from environmental and social psychology to history, urban studies, and community development. This experience deepened my appreciation for interdisciplinary thinking and shaped the way I approach research: with a commitment to social inquiry, intersectionality, and impact.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Fulbright Scholarship?

I applied during peak COVID in 2020. The world felt like it was falling apart, and the need to apply psychology to real-world problems felt more urgent than ever. I spent around six weeks on my application. I rewrote my personal statement countless times, asked for feedback from friends and even strangers, and made sure my story was honest. I wanted my application to reflect different aspects of my personality, such as my humor, my values, and, of course, my love for psychology.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I think it stood out because it was honest and personal. I dedicated hours reading relevant literature and self-reflecting on my life’s journey. The blend of honesty and direction helped my application.

Advice for Future Applicants

The world is changing so fast! I feel what worked for me back in 2020 might not apply in quite the same way today. But one thing that I hope is still relevant (and never stops being) is the importance of showing up fully and relying on your community for support.

Put your heart into your application, even if it feels like a long shot. If nothing else, you’ll learn something new about yourself in the process, and might reuse those drafts for other graduate school opportunities. No hard work is ever wasted. Ask for critical feedback. Stay connected with people, with mentors, and with your goals. The process can be grueling and disheartening. But you don’t have to do it alone. Lean on your community. Support can make all the difference.