Latest news with #Fulbright
American Press
a day ago
- American Press
Mary Richardson: Exploring the beauty of our planet
1/5 Swipe or click to see more Oslo, Norway (Mary Richardson / Special to the American Press) 2/5 Swipe or click to see more Lisbon, Portugal (Mary Richardson / Special to the American Press) 3/5 Swipe or click to see more Panajachel, Guatemala (Mary Richardson / Special to the American Press) 4/5 Swipe or click to see more Giza, Egypt (Mary Richardson / Special to the American Press) 5/5 Swipe or click to see more Kirkenes, Norway (Mary Richardson / Special to the American Press) Mary Richardson is not just a tourist. She's an explorer who seeks to immerse herself in new environments, embracing diversity and forging genuine relationships with the locals. 'I consider Lake Charles my community — my church is here, my friends are here, half of my family is here. But I also feel a broader connection with humanity,' she said. Richardson, who shares her travel experiences several times a year through her writings in the American Press , said she travels not only for the beauty she finds when she arrives at the destination but also out of sheer curiosity. 'There's a sense of awe with our planet,' she said. 'I'm a history major and Joe (her husband) has an undergraduate degree in history and it's one thing to read about a country, it's another thing to see it. In Egypt, we were climbing up the Step Pyramid near Cairo and it's 5,000 years old! It's only been 2,000 years since the beginning of Christianity and that had already been there for 3,000 years. There's this sense of timing; you're only a piece of dust in it.' When Joe and Mary were courting, Richardson said the couple never had big plans to see the world. That came later. 'We had a Pinto with a stick shift and we would pull a boat,' she said with a laugh. 'That's how we traveled. We would go camping in national parks and state parks.' He's from Kentucky, she's from Minnesota. They met and married in Florida and shortly after moved to Nevada for his work as a civil engineer. Eventually, Joe was awarded a Fulbright Professorship — a prestigious opportunity for American faculty members to teach abroad — and the program took their family to United Emirates, Sharjah, Namibia, Singapore, Indonesia, Holland and Dubai. 'We started traveling when he started working in these foreign countries,' she said. 'He went to Rwanda first, 10 years after the genocide, and that's when we started thinking about the world. Then he became a department head in Dubai, then he had a Fulbright to Namibia. That's how I got to see Africa. Very few of the trips have been planned, most came by circumstance where he happened to be. That's where we got a taste of being part of the world as opposed to being part of a small community.' The pair found themselves in Lake Charles in 1986. 'We were passing through back to Gainesville, Fla., where Joe was getting his Ph.D. in civil engineering and we stopped and I had the blackened catfish and I told Joe, 'I'd like to stay here.' That's the truth,' she said. Both found work at McNeese State University — he as an engineering professor and she as the director of the Banners Cultural Series. 'We don't appreciate what we have,' she said. 'This country is a miracle. One of the miracles is our founding fathers. At one time, they were all there together, forming our democracy, the Constitution, the Bill of Rights. Nothing like that has ever happened in Haiti. Haiti has not had good government not one day in its life.' She said travel has given her a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the gifts she's been given. 'It's not due to you; it's chance that you were born here and had these opportunities,' she said. 'In Guatemala, I developed an appreciation for gratitude. You can look at them and say, 'Oh, poor thing. You don't have enough electricity. You don't have carpets on the floors.' They don't care. They're just grateful for what they do have.' She said traveling has deeply changed her view of the world. 'We went by a refugee camp on the border of Ethiopia. People have been there for years and they weren't going to get out. It was a hopeless situation. If I hadn't seen that I would have known about it in my mind, but not know about it in my heart. It hurts. The tragedy at the border has a face. 'Travel broadens you as a person,' she continued. 'I do see myself as a piece of dust in the world as opposed to a little piece of sand in Lake Charles.' When Joe retired she said that's when the travel bug really hit the pair — and, as Johnny Cash sings, the Richardsons have 'been everywhere man.' They've been to five of the seven continents. They haven't been to Australia or Antartica. Joe has been to 48 states, Mary said she's still catching up. Istanbul is top on her bucket list of sites to see. 'Joe has been to Istanbul but I have not,' she said. 'And I've been to Morocco but Joe has not. I want to see Istanbul, that's the kind of architecture that feeds my soul. I'd also like to see Nepal.' Before retirement, the couple planned two trips a year. Now they take about four. 'We're in a travel period of our life,' she said. 'I feel like time is chasing us. We're both healthy right now but he's 80 and I just turned 78. If we're going to do something, we've got to do it now. Age makes you feel vulnerable to chance.' Mary is an adventurous eater, but Joe 'not so much.' 'I've had some really bad meals, though, especially if I can't read a menu,' she said. 'In Singapore, I had my first tuna pizza. I will never forget that because it was not a match made of heaven. That was not a good idea.' Also not a good idea? Shark. 'I tried the shark in Iceland, though I was warned against it,' she said. 'That was doubly unfortunate. First of all, it's something you never want to put in your mouth but second of all, a friend asked us to bring some home and I put some frozen shark in my backpack but the pressure during the flight opened it up and oh boy.' During the pandemic, the couple realized they needed to see more of the United States. 'We went out west and back to the Grand Canyon,' she said. 'Joe had been there many times a nd I had been only once as a child and I think everyone who has been to the Grand Canyon remembers that sense of awe. That gasp. Some of the most beautiful sights in the world are right here in the United States.' Their fall trip this year will cover six national parks. 'We're going to stay at the historic lodges that we looked at in when we were staying in tents,' she said. 'And just because we're staying in these historic lodges, doesn't mean we're staying in luxury.' Traveling is incredibly important for personal growth, cultural understanding and global awareness. It also broadens perspectives, fosters empathy and provides opportunities for learning, skill development and lasting memories, Richardson said. 'I don't know if you become a better person, necessarily. I don't know if you become smarter or wiser. I'm not sure about that. I don't think you can help but become more appreciative and more grateful — not to feel sorry for other people; it's a different kind of gratitude. I don't know how to define it. It's a valuable experience.'
Wall Street Journal
a day ago
- Politics
- Wall Street Journal
Quitting Fulbright's Board Is Defeatist, Not Principled
As a Fulbright alumna, I am disappointed by the recent news that members of the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board have chosen to resign ('Fulbright Board Quits, Cites Political Meddling,' U.S. News, June 12). One former board member said his decision was made 'not in protest, but in defense of principle.' But what principle is defended by choosing to resign? I don't know what circumstances the board members faced behind the scenes that led them to this decision. But stepping away now seems like a decision to wash hands of any responsibility for what the program may look like in the future. In the face of adversity, resignation—in the sense of complacency or departure—isn't the only option. We need leaders who hold fast in the face of opposition. That's how we'll uphold our principles.
India Today
2 days ago
- Business
- India Today
36% growth in US data science jobs by 2033, top colleges, salaries to track
Employment for data scientists in the United States is anticipated to grow by a staggering 36% between 2023 and 2033, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This far surpasses the average projected growth of around 4% across all year, approximately 20,800 openings are expected in the field, driven not just by new roles but also the need to replace retiring or transitioning scientists continue to earn attractive wages. The BLS reports a median salary of US $112,590 in May2024. Other sources, such as estimate mean annual pay at around $125,242 for data science graduates. Meanwhile, entry-level roles typically start at $80,000, with senior positions reaching up to $190,000.A minimum of a bachelor's degree in mathematics, statistics, computer science or a related discipline is generally required. However, many employers prefer applicants with master's or doctoral UNIVERSITIES TO CONSIDERAccording to QS World University Ranking 2025, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is ranked number one, followed by Carnegie Mellon universities, such as the University of California, Berkeley, ranked four, Harvard University ranked six, and Yale University was placed at number are amongst the top-performing institutions for data science universities are highlighted consistently in global league tables and are noted for access to advanced curriculum, research opportunities, and placement AND SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIESTuition fees for a Master's in Data Science range broadly from around US $24,852 to US $75,000 per international candidates -- particularly from India -- the annual expense may total between Rs 25-55lakhs (US$30,000-80,000), exclusive of living costs.A wealth of scholarships for international students, including Fulbright, Stanford KnightHennessy, and diversity awards, can help defray PURSUE A DATA SCIENCE MASTER'S?Graduates benefit from several advantages:STEM eligibility: Master's programmes in the US qualify for extended Optional Practical Training (OPT) exposure: Research hubs like Silicon Valley and internships at leading tech firms provide invaluable realworld placement prospects: Entry-level roles and networking in tech sectors bolster job security and give access to prestigious managers emphasise proficiency in programming languages like Python and often call for strong backgrounds in statistics, linear algebra and machine learning, upskilling and networking through professional bodies are viewed as key for career THE FUTURE HOLDSWith growth rates nearly nine times that of the broader market, data science stands out as one of the fastestgrowing Investopedia report suggests that advancements in AI and broader digital systems may push this growth even higher, potentially towards 42percent, through the next remarkable expansion, in turn, is expected to increase demand for datarelated roles such as information security analysts (estimated 41percent growth) and computer research scientists (32percent).For aspiring data scientists, the US offers vast opportunities, a robust job market, high salaries, and worldclass candidates must commit to rigorous training, strategic institution selection, and securing financial aid. With the right preparation, a career in data science promises global relevance, stable growth, and financial rewards.- Ends
Business Wire
3 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
SabbaticalHomes Celebrates 25 Years of Housing Minds on the Move
LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SabbaticalHomes celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2025. With more than 2 million members in 65 countries, the international housing platform has long been the trusted resource for academics and scholars seeking temporary accommodations worldwide. As higher education faces global uncertainty and housing costs continue to climb, SabbaticalHomes is more relevant than ever. A Home for Scholars Founded in 2000 by Nadege Conger, SabbaticalHomes was inspired by personal experience. As part of an academic family, Conger witnessed how difficult it was for scholars to find suitable housing while working abroad. Seeing the potential of the internet to connect like-minded people, she coded the first version of the site herself—long before the plethora of short-term rental platforms emerged. Despite international disruptions like 9/11, economic downturns, and COVID-19, the company remains focused on its mission: supporting those who advance knowledge through research, writing, and education. About the Founder Originally from France and now based in Southern California, Conger earned her MBA from McGill University in Montreal after studying in France and Canada. Her early career included roles at Disney Paris and Deloitte & Touche, but she sought a more meaningful path. 'I'm particularly proud that SabbaticalHomes has grown organically, driven by purpose rather than venture capital,' said Conger. 'Each listing is more than a home—it's a vessel for thinkers, helping them contribute to society. We prioritize trust and respect over profits.' A Global Academic Community SabbaticalHomes connects professors, postdocs, teachers, graduate students, and university staff as well as writers, scientists, artists, journalists, filmmakers, and doctors—people who value lifelong learning and intellectual exchange. Its members include Nobel laureates, Fulbright scholars, and fellowship recipients worldwide. Many return year after year, sharing testimonials that reflect the platform's deep impact and community-first approach. How It Works Members list homes for rent or exchange with house-sitting and sharing options. They arrange details independently and directly—checking references, drafting contracts, and handling payments. This model encourages trust, flexibility, and authentic personal connections. With flat listing and match fees, SabbaticalHomes serves users at all career stages. Looking Ahead As it marks 25 years, SabbaticalHomes continues to support 'Minds on the Move.' With a strong foundation and a loyal community, the platform is well-positioned to empower scholars and thought leaders for decades to come. For more information, visit
The Hill
6 days ago
- Politics
- The Hill
Senator Fulbright had a vision. His successors must see it through.
Last week, 11 of the 12 members of the Fulbright Board of Directors resigned, citing political interference in awarding Fulbright Scholar awards for the upcoming year. This comes less than two weeks after ten students and six researchers left Sweden after nine months away from home, returning to America to continue their educational and professional paths. Unless something changes, this year's Fulbright research grantees to Sweden, and those to other countries around the world, may be the last to make the trip, as the entire international cultural exchange program budget faces elimination in the budget bill. Since it was founded in 1946, the Fulbright Program has enjoyed bipartisan support because it has always been aligned first and foremost with our national interests. In the words of Sen. J. William Fulbright (D-Ark.), the American politician and statesman who served in the U.S. Senate between 1945 and 1974, Fulbright was designed to be 'a modest program with an immodest aim — the achievement in international affairs of a regime more civilized, rational and humane than the empty systems of power of the past,' as he said when the program was signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. In order to continue this work, Fulbright's successors today must act to restore this important program that has been paying huge dividends for nearly 80 years. The Fulbright scholars in Sweden, including myself, hail from institutions across the country. After a rigorous selection process over the course of a year, they were chosen to represent our country abroad, facing long winter days, to study critical issues such as immunities in malaria infections, potential treatments for chronic kidney disease, root causes of autoimmune disorders, fair uses of artificial intelligence, strengthened safety regulations in long-range rescue operations, long-term sustainability of oceanic food sources, and enhanced access to medical services. The Fulbright Program runs on a tight annual budget of $288 million, representing a minuscule share of America's international relations budget. Scholars and students are deployed to 165 countries around the world. Stipends to grantees are exceedingly modest, covering only room, board and incidental expenses. Limited financial support encourages grantees to explore local resources and even share accommodations. To survive the Nordic winter when the sun appeared only two or three hours each day, the 15 researchers in Sweden spent their free time participating in local sports teams and volunteering at health clinics and community service organizations. Their presence in community activities helped forge lifelong relationships and spread goodwill at a time when America's hard power is frequently questioned abroad. Since the program's inception, Fulbright recipients have gone on to win 62 Nobel prizes, 96 Pulitzer prizes and 17 Presidential Medals of Freedom. Eighty-two have been named MacArthur geniuses and 44 have become heads of state. The list of Fulbrighters is long, distinguished and bipartisan. Fulbrighter Linus Pauling, one of the founders of the fields of quantum chemistry and molecular biology, won both the Nobel Prize in Chemistry and the Nobel Peace Prize. Authors John Steinbeck, Edward Albee and John Updike were Fulbrighters, as is American soprano Renée Fleming. In the eyes of Fulbright, who himself received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1993, the Fulbright Program was meant to bring a little more knowledge, a little more reason and a little more compassion into world affairs, thereby increasing the chance that nations will learn to live in peace and friendship. The 2025 Swedish Fulbright researchers, representing the best and brightest our country has to offer, have done their part to contribute to this goal. I wish our senators could have seen them in action as I have. At a time when governmental funding priorities are scrutinized for fiscal efficiency, the Fulbright Program stands as a proven investment in education and diplomacy while promoting American values worldwide and shaping future leaders. Fulbright helps build a stronger, smarter, more prosperous United States. Eliminating its funding would be a poor investment in America's future, making the world a more dangerous place in the process. Christie S. Warren, the 2024-2025 Fulbright-Lund Distinguished Chair in Public International Law, is Professor of the Practice of International and Comparative Law and director of the Center for Comparative Legal Studies at William and Mary Law School.
