How I Secured a Partially Funded Master’s at the University of Maryland, United States Through the Fulbright Scholarship

My name is Victoria Contreras del Olmo, and I'm from Salta, Argentina. After high school, I moved to Buenos Aires to study at Universidad Torcuato Di Tella, where I earned a bachelor's degree in International Relations and Political Science. Later, I was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to pursue a Master of Public Policy at the University of Maryland, College Park.

While I was still in college, I started working as a political and legislative advisor and also became involved in public policy research. Those experiences made me realize that I wanted to build a career in public policy and encouraged me to continue my studies abroad.

When I was applying to graduate school, the University of Maryland stood out because of its Public Policy program and its faculty. Being so close to Washington, D.C. was another major advantage, since it offered access to internships, events, and professional opportunities that complemented what I was learning in the classroom.

Fulbright Scholarship Details

I received a Fulbright Scholarship to pursue my Master of Public Policy at the University of Maryland, College Park. The Fulbright Scholarship covered my living expenses, the university application process, and my travel expenses to the United States.

In addition, I received a tuition scholarship from the University of Maryland. Lastly, I was also awarded the P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship, a program that provides financial assistance to international women pursuing graduate studies in the United States.

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

Yes. I received scholarship offers from both Duke University and George Washington University, but I ultimately chose to pursue my master's degree at the University of Maryland.

Educational Background

I earned my first bachelor's degree in International Relations and then a second bachelor's degree in Political Science at Universidad Torcuato Di Tella in Buenos Aires, Argentina. My academic background gave me a strong interdisciplinary foundation in political science, economics, public policy, statistics, and research methods, which proved invaluable during my master's program.

At the same time, my experience as a political and legislative advisor and public policy researcher has allowed me to apply that knowledge in practice, making me well prepared for graduate studies in public policy. By the time I started my master's degree, I already had both a solid academic background and several years of professional experience in public policy.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Maryland, College Park?

I applied through the Fulbright Commission in Argentina. I looked into different graduate programs and chose the universities that seemed like the best fit for my background and interests. As part of the Fulbright process, my application was submitted to Duke University, the University of California San Diego, George Washington University, and the University of Maryland, College Park.

I also prepared the required essays, took the standardized tests, and asked professors and supervisors who knew my work to write letters of recommendation. Before applying, I reviewed each program, its faculty, and the opportunities it offered.

How Did You Find Information About the Fulbright Scholarship and the University of Maryland?

I first learned about the Fulbright Scholarship through people I knew who had previously received it. When researching universities, I carefully compared their academic programs, faculty members, and the professional opportunities they offered to find the best fit for my interests and career goals. That's how I came across the University of Maryland and realized it was the right fit for me.

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

Yes. I took both the TOEFL and the GRE.

For the TOEFL, I prepared independently since I had already studied English for many years. For the GRE, I used the Magoosh online preparation platform, which helped me become familiar with the exam format and improve my performance.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Fulbright Scholarship?

I prepared by thoroughly researching the universities, their academic programs, faculty members, and the opportunities they offered. I also carefully followed every step of the application process, including taking the required standardized tests, writing the application essays, and preparing for interviews when required.

How is Your Experience at the University of Maryland, College Park?

My experience at the University of Maryland was outstanding. I learned from great professors, met talented classmates from different countries, and had access to incredible academic and professional opportunities. The program challenged me intellectually while also helping me grow personally and professionally. It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

How Do You Rate the University of Maryland, College Park, Academically?

I had an excellent experience at the University of Maryland. The professors were knowledgeable, approachable, and genuinely invested in their students’ learning. The program combined strong academic training with a practical approach to public policy, making the classes both challenging and useful.

How Does the University of Maryland, College Park Support International Students?

The university was always very supportive of international students. The faculty and staff were approachable and willing to help whenever we needed assistance, whether with academic matters, administrative procedures, or adjusting to life in the United States. I always felt welcomed and supported throughout my studies.

What Did You Pursue After the Fulbright Scholarship?

After completing my master's degree, I returned to Argentina and continued working in public policy and legislative affairs, applying the knowledge and skills I had gained during my graduate studies.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out because I had a clear career goal and a well-defined plan for achieving it. Every academic and professional step I had taken was aligned with that objective. I also explained how the degree fit into the work I was already doing and how I hoped to build on that experience when I returned to Argentina.

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

Looking back, I think I would start the application process earlier. Having enough time is key to putting together a strong application, whether it's preparing for the exams, writing and revising your essays, or researching universities. I would also try to connect with professors, alumni, and former scholarship recipients earlier on. Their advice and feedback can be incredibly helpful throughout the process.

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

My advice is to take the time to think about the story you want your application to tell. A strong scholarship application isn't just a list of achievements; it's about showing who you are and where you want to go. Good grades and professional experience are important, but they are only part of the picture. What makes an application memorable is how your experiences, your goals, and the opportunity all come together.

I also encourage applicants to do their research. There are many scholarships available that people simply don't know about, so it's worth taking the time to explore different opportunities and find the ones that best match your profile.

Don't go through the process alone, either. Talk to professors, mentors, alumni, or anyone who knows your work well. Their feedback can make a real difference, especially when it comes to your essays.

Finally, don't rule yourself out before applying. Even if you're not selected the first time, the experience will help you submit a stronger application in the future. The most important thing is to take the chance and apply.