“My Fulbright years have enhanced my life both professionally and personally and have led me to dedicate my life to promoting international education exchange.”

What was the focus of your Fulbright work?

I explored the dynamic relationship of the body in religious practice.  I collected oral histories, participated in two religious pilgrimages and conducted research in Austria, Slovenia and Bosnia-Herzegovina.  In addition, I took courses at the University of Vienna and Alpen-Adria University, Klagenfurt and presented my research to the History Department at the University of Salzburg.  During my second year, I was awarded an English Language Teaching Assistantship and taught a variety of subjects in English, primarily literature, history, and religion. 

Did your Fulbright experience meet your expectations?
Yes… in every way. The Fulbright commission in Vienna provided not only logistical support and a wonderful orientation and end-of-year sessions, but provided Fulbright recipients several opportunities to experience the full life of Austrian culture

How has your Fulbright experience changed the way you teach/work?
I became acutely aware that oral history and direct experience are two valuable tools in understanding any historical event or cultural practice. For instance, visiting the concentration camp at Mauthausen with a group of my students had more of an impact on their ‘learning’ about the Holocaust than any written text.  Hence, when teaching I integrate at least one assignment that includes gathering of oral history and/or a direct “field experience.”   

What was the most significant moment in your Fulbright experience?

It is difficult to pick the most significant moment; however, completing the 52 km/31+ miles Vierbergelauf (Four Mountain Run) Pilgrimage in Kärnten for the first time was very memorable.  In addition, the many personal oral histories that I gathered were memorable, moving, and extremely important to my research.

Ramona Kirsch
Austria 2002-2004

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