Ao abrigo de uma Bolsa Fulbright para Investigação com o apoio do Governo Regional dos Açores e no âmbito da sua pós-graduação em ‘Veterinary Social Work ‘, Joana Gomes desenvolveu parte da sua pesquisa na University of Tennessee, TN, EUA.
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«I gained access to academic resources, scientific articles and books that would be otherwise difficult to obtain in Portugal. A particularly meaningful moment was when a Social Work professor gifted me a book she had edited: The Comprehensive Guide to Interdisciplinary Veterinary Social Work, which I brought back to Portugal as a key reference. These peer connections were incredibly valuable. And as a result, I am currently writing a conceptual paper titled, “A Conceptual Analysis of Veterinary Social Work: Opportunities and Challenges in Portugal.” Being surrounded by researchers who understood my interests and aspirations made a significant difference. Their support not only improved my work but also inspired me to pursue a PhD program soon.
Beyond academia, the cultural immersion I experienced was equally enriching. I traveled to several states and had the opportunity to meet VSW professionals from Long Island during my trip. Traveling around the U.S. made me reflect on infrastructure and sustainability, especially when comparing public transport systems to those in Europe. This led me to a deeper appreciation of the European Union’s approach to sustainable development. Celebrating American holidays was a highlight. Halloween was my favorite, seeing the decorated houses and participating in traditions was delightful. Thanksgiving offered the chance to try new foods, and although I thought Christmas would feel lonely away from home, my host family made me feel truly welcome and at peace. Even daily routines, like grocery shopping, turned into small cultural lessons.
I found meaning and wonder in the differences. I made it a priority to share Azorean culture with the people I met. I brought books about the Azores, our sea life, and local traditions. I offered queijadas da Graciosa, chocolates das Nove Ilhas, and Gorreana tea. I even gifted my landlord a magnet showing the location and names of the islands, by the end of my stay, she could name them all. This cultural exchange was one of the most rewarding aspects of the experience.
The Fulbright experience had a profound impact on my academic path and personal life. I gained, an advanced knowledge in Veterinary Social Work, improved my English communication skills, a broader international academic and professional network, and a deeper understanding of cultural and institutional contexts in the U.S.
The year of 2024 was personally challenging, but this opportunity was the light during it all. It was, without a doubt, the most transformative experience of my life. I plan to apply everything I’ve learned to future projects and will pursue a PhD without hesitation. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity. Thank you, for changing my life for the better.»
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Thank you, Joana, welcome back!