BU Scholar Wins Fulbright Scholarship

Vanja Pantic, a recent graduate of Boston University, is the first Scholar from Atlanta to win a Fulbright Scholarship. Vanja, who majored in political science and international relations, is studying the migration patterns of rural women in Turkey and the effects on democratization efforts that arise post-migration.

“I plan to focus on the area of Gaziosmanpasa, which is known for its poor, largely immigrant residential makeup,” says Vanja. “I believe that a study on the effects of internal migration of women in particular could help illustrate the difficulties women face in preserving their cultural roots, adapting to their new social surroundings, and contributing to economic stability.”

While studying abroad in Istanbul, Turkey, at Boğaziçi University, Vanja made vital connections with the Turkish Cultural Center and The Center for Migration Studies that prepared her to submit a winning Fulbright proposal. She interned with community organizations in Bosnia and Turkey while studying at Boğaziçi and the Université de Genève in Switzerland.

Vanja is also dedicated to her community in Boston, Massachusetts. She volunteered as an English language partner for community organizations that help immigrants learn English. On campus, she was an instrumental part of the Alternative Spring Break team and worked with Boston University’s Office of Orientation as a program advisor. She became an invaluable resource for parents and new students as they transitioned to campus.

After completing her Fulbright year, Vanja plans to earn a master’s degree in international relations and pursue a career in foreign policy and human rights.