May 19, 2021
All University of North Georgia (UNG) students have big dreams after graduation. Now, five 2021 graduates plus two 2019 alumnae will see their dreams come true this year.
All seven were selected as finalists for the U.S. Fulbright Program for the 2021-22 academic year. The highly competitive and prestigious program enables graduates to pursue research activities, become English Teaching Assistants, or enroll in graduate school.
This year's Fulbright finalists are:
Fulbright also deemed two UNG students alternates. If a finalist declines the award, an alternate may be promoted to finalist. This year's alternates are:
"The Fulbright program aims to promote mutual understanding through educational and cultural exchange, which aligns with one of UNG's goals: to develop students into leaders for a diverse and global society," said Dr. Kathryn Quinto, fellowships adviser for the nationally competitive scholarships office at UNG. "We are very excited for the student and alumni who were inspired to pursue their international aspirations through Fulbright."
While UNG students and alumni have earned Fulbrights in European and Asian countries, for the first time, two recipients will head to South America. Pelletier will head to Peru on the Pacific coast while Pizano will be further southeast in Uruguay on the Atlantic coast.
"I felt that I connected to the country of Uruguay," Pizano said. "It is one of the most liberal countries in South America, and it has a strong equitable school system."
Pelletier said she has been enamored with Peru since the eighth grade when she saw a picture of Machu Picchu, the Incan citadel in the Andes Mountains. Her affinity grew after conducting research projects about the country and taking courses from Peruvian professors.
"I'm looking forward to better understanding the Peruvian culture and all of its complexities," Pelletier said.
Bryant can't wait to experience the culture of Wales, but it will be the one from the past instead of the present. He will study the ancient Celtic culture to earn a degree in archaeology thanks to the Fulbright.
"I have been inducted into a small group of people, because not everyone gets a Fulbright," the first-generation college student said. "I am honored to be selected and I feel blessed that they chose me."
Bryant is the first Fulbright finalist who started his career on the Cumming Campus.
While UNG increased its number of finalists compared to last year, it had a banner year in applicants and semifinalists. A record 27 students and alumni applied, which led to a record-setting 18 semifinalists for UNG.
The Fulbright boot camp conducted by the Nationally Competitive Scholarships (NCS) office will begin June 1 and will run through the summer to help students develop their applications. Students interested in Fulbright or other nationally competitive scholarships should contact NCS@ung.edu to learn how the NCS office can help them apply.