National Scholarship Office

Fulbright Spotlight: Octavia Christopher

VCU alumna Octavia Christopher spent two years in Colombia, fully funded by the Fulbright U.S. Student Program. Learn more about what Fulbright could look like for you!

What was your most memorable experience during your grant year?

One unforgettable experience during my time in Colombia was the Independence Day celebrations in Cartagena. Known as Las Fiestas de Independencia, it marks the day Cartagena declared itself free from Spanish rule, becoming the first Free Sovereign State in Colombia. The holiday is just before my birthday, making it feel extra special with its vibrant music, dancing, and rich traditions. I loved it so much that I returned to Cartagena the following year to celebrate with friends during my second grant in Cali.

What program/country did you choose and why?

I was drawn to the Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship in Colombia because I believed that through the experience, I’d have the chance to develop my cultural competency, Spanish language skills, and teaching skills as an aspiring physician who wants to improve healthcare equity for minority, immigrant, and Spanish-speaking patient populations. Colombia has a vast, vibrant, and beautifully diverse cultural landscape. As a dancer, I was also looking forward to connecting with my community through its rich musical and dance traditions.

What made you want to apply for Fulbright in the first place?

Before applying, I had heard of Fulbright several times but felt discouraged as a “non-traditional” Pre-Medicine student after changing my major from Dance & Choreography to Biology. I was interested in languages and studying abroad, but my major restrictions and the COVID-19 pandemic held me back. It wasn’t until the UVA Summer Medical Leadership Program that I heard LaShyra “Lash” Nolen, the first Black student body president at Harvard Medical School, speak about her experience as a Fulbright ETA in Spain. She emphasized how teaching in a different cultural and linguistic context can enhance skills essential for a doctor. Inspired by her story, I finally decided to pursue my dream of living and learning abroad through Fulbright. I’m grateful for the opportunity to hear her speak; it truly encouraged me to embark on this adventure!

What did a typical day look like?

While I tried to build a routine for myself, most days looked very different for me. During both of my grants, some constants were taking moto-taxis or the bus for transportation around my city, co-teaching classes, leading tutoring sessions for students and administrators, getting lost in conversation with curious strangers once they heard my accent, and engaging with my local dance community. In Cartagena, I led a dance club at my university and danced with an academy called BOOM Latino. In Cali, I attended Thursday Indigenous dance nights and frequented La Calle del Sabor. In these famous salsa street parties, Caleños (Colombians who live in Cali) gather every Friday to sing, dance, and play instruments to the rhythm that powers the city.

Post-Fulbright, what are you doing now?

Since returning home, I took the MCAT, applied to medical school, and have been working as a Medical Assistant. I’ve kept up with my passion for salsa dancing, attending classes and socials in my area, and I continue to refine my Spanish skills, studying on my own, using Spanish at work when taking care of Spanish-speaking patients, and chatting with friends back in Colombia!

What did you discover about yourself?

I learned so much through my Fulbright Colombia experience. I learned how to trust myself, how to advocate for myself and others effectively, and how to be decisive and assertive. I grew exponentially as a mentor, teacher, leader, and team member. I learned so much Spanish and so much about Colombian culture. Most surprisingly, I shed my long-time type-A-ness and became more relaxed and super adaptable. I discovered my potential.

What advice would you give to prospective Fulbright applicants?

Start your applications early, be genuine in your essays, and seek feedback. Choose your host country wisely. I initially planned on Mexico, but my advisors at the NSO suggested my interests in Afro-Latino populations and dance might align better with another country. After some research, I found Colombia to be the perfect fit, and I’m now confident I ended up where I was meant to be!

The Fulbright Program is sponsored by the U.S. government and is designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries. The program operates in over 160 countries worldwide. Over 2,000 grants are given to graduating seniors, recent alumni, and graduate students to conduct research, carry out creative projects, pursue a year of postgraduate study, or teach English abroad.

The NSO will host Fulbright Information Sessions on February 6 at 12:30pm, and April 3 at 2pm. Register to attend to learn more about the Fulbright Program and how the NSO can help you apply. VCU’s National Scholarship Office (NSO) assists students and recent alumni with the application process for the Fulbright Program and other esteemed awards. To learn more about external funding opportunities, schedule an appointment with a member of the NSO staff.

Categories Fulbright Award, Fulbright ETA Award
Tagged Fulbright Award