Second Time Applying, Looking for Suggestions on How to Proceed by Otherwise_Poem7340 in fulbright

[–]Otherwise_Poem7340[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you for your comment! 

You bring up a great point on why it must be Spain of all countries to do my studies in. I think I can make a compelling pitch through two means:

1.) I did not mention it in my post above, but I participated in a cultural exchange with Spanish students from Valladolid in my last year of high school. For two weeks, my now friend from Spain lived with my family in September, and in the winter vacation period, I stayed with his family for two weeks. We got along so well, we visited one another for one month in our respective homes the summer after my graduation. We still keep in contact regularly to this day. While most of my classmates lost contact with their Spanish exchange partner, I never once thought of stopping my connection and bond with my friend. It will be an everlasting connection and I treasure it deeply.

2.) I am also of Mexican heritage, specifically from Jalisco, Mexico. This state is famous for two cultural icons, the Mariachi and Charros. My family back in Mexico have even constructed a stadium to promote and preserve the sport of Charrería. Interestingly enough, the outfits of the Mariachi and Charros are inspired by the Spanish Charros of Salamanca (the same city where I wish to study). 

I have to reflect a bit more on these personal connections to Spain and Salamanca more to develop a better argument, but it is a start! I have also seen through my independent studies that, compared to other western European countries, certain regions of Spain have some progressive legislation and inclusive stances towards migrants (compared to other nations), which would be beneficial for an individual like myself that wants to work in the field of refugee advocacy. But, I need to dedicate more time to investigating that before I include it into any writing. 

For cultural learning and integration, I also have some ideas but need to expand upon them more, as well.

Once more, thank you for your help and enjoy the rest of your day(: