Cole Grumbach ’21 on his Fulbright in the United Arab Emirates.
Cole Grumbach ’21
Hometown: Readington, N.J.
International relations major, Middle Eastern and Islamic studies minor
Campus Involvement: IJʿ Model Arab League, Circle K International, Delta Upsilon Fraternity, Maroon-News Writer and Photographer
Fulbright Research in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 2021–2022
What did you do day to day during your Fulbright experience?
As a Fulbright scholar, I researched UAE nation-branding strategies as a visiting scholar at the American University of Sharjah. I used Dubai’s Expo 2020 as a case study. I identified and provided UAE officials with best practices and strategies of crafting the UAE’s image to a global community of consumers, investors, and tourists.
My day-to-day consisted of conducting research and site interviews both at my host university and across the UAE. I also tried to make as much time as possible to travel and explore the region.
How did IJʿ prepare you for your Fulbright?
IJʿ, and particularly the Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies Program, ignited my interested in the MENA region and the Arabic language. Professor Amanda Rogers, who did numerous Fulbrights herself, gave me the idea to pursue research on nation branding in the GCC following an independent study I conducted during my junior year. Without the incredible guidance of Professor Rogers and the rest of the faculty, I would not have had the opportunity to be where I am today.
Do you have a favorite memory from your Fulbright experience?
Two memories stand out.
I was given the opportunity to brief students at my host university, the American University of Sharjah. I gave a lecture on the UAE’s nation-branding efforts, and it was a really special experience to be able to engage and connect with many of the students at the university.
Another memory was a trip I took to Oman with the other Fulbright grantee from my year. We visited Muscat and Salalah, and it was an incredible opportunity to immerse myself more deeply in the region's culture and history.
What are you doing now?
I stayed in Dubai! I am now working for the global consulting firm Kearney. I am a core member of Kearney Middle East’s international affairs platform, providing strategic advisory, foresight, and thought leadership for GCC government entities.
Do you have any advice for students considering applying to Fulbright?
Start the process early. Finding a sponsor professor takes time, as does building a solid proposed research project.
Most importantly, you need to carefully answer three key questions as you build your application and case:
- “Why this country?”
- “Why this project?”
- “Why me?”
Your project should be uniquely tailored to your country and uniquely tailored to your own personal expertise.
Anything else you would like to share?
Before I left for my Fulbright, many family and friends told me how much of a life-changing experience it would be. They were right. My Fulbright gave me a deeper understanding of global cultures and opened up countless doors, leading me to my career today.