How a Georgian Scholar Secured the Fully Funded Fulbright Scholarship for Public Policy Studies at Northeastern University

Hi, I’m Sophie Arjevanidze from Tbilisi, Georgia. I had the incredible opportunity to study at Northeastern University in Boston through the Fulbright Foreign Program in Public Policy. Currently, I work at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), where I focus on digital transformation and capacity-building initiatives for developing countries. My passion lies in leveraging technology to drive policy reform and empower public administrations, helping them become more efficient, innovative, and responsive to societal needs.

Fulbright Scholarship Details

The Fulbright Scholarship is a competitive, U.S. government-funded program that allows international students to pursue graduate studies in the U.S. for one to two years. It promotes global understanding and supports students with leadership potential who are eager to create positive change. I was accepted into the 2021-2023 cohort at Northeastern University in Boston, MA. The scholarship covers full tuition, living expenses, airfare, and health insurance.

Educational Background

Prior to my Fulbright programme, I earned a Master's in Public Relations and a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. In addition to my formal education, I participated in various exchange programmes for public servants and young professionals, which I believe provided me with valuable non-formal learning experiences. I highly recommend that young professionals, alongside their degree programmes, take part in professional development initiatives that equip them with practical skills and hands-on experience in their field.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for Northeastern University?

I successfully passed the GRE and TOEFL exams. Since I had no prior experience with these tests, I worked with a private tutor for a month to familiarise myself with the exam structure and requirements. After that, I spent another month practising on my own. I highly recommend starting preparation as early as possible, as the time available after receiving a decision is often limited.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Fulbright Scholarship?

One of the most important steps in the application process is gathering the right information, this is half the battle! I started by carefully analyzing the programme requirements and thinking about how my background and interests aligned with its goals.

I was also fortunate to connect with a Fulbright alumnus who had gone through the process before me. Their insights were incredibly valuable, as they helped me understand just how much preparation was needed.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I focused on crafting a narrative that went beyond just listing my achievements. I wanted to highlight not only my hard work but also my mindset the willingness to step out of my comfort zone, embrace challenges, and keep moving forward rather than staying in one place.

Your application should tell a story that reflects who you are, what drives you, and how your experiences have shaped your journey.

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

Looking back, I would not change much, though I might have chosen a more specific subject to study. In my home country, the education system did not offer as many options in policy studies as in the U.S., and I was not fully aware of this at the start. This made it challenging to select a more specialized field. If I could give one piece of advice, it would be to research your options in depth before making a decision. Take the time to explore different specializations within your field so you can invest your time wisely and make the most of your studies.

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

Focus on what makes you unique! When preparing your application, take the time to reflect on what truly motivates you and craft a story that is authentic and uniquely yours.

I remember doubting my application because of my diverse interests and career transitions. I worried that my background might seem unfocused. But a friend gave me a piece of advice that completely changed my perspective: ‘Exploring different areas reflects curiosity and adaptability, not a weakness.’ That simple shift in mindset helped me reframe my experiences as strengths, and I was able to present my journey with confidence.