Early August 2024, Mirian Dias left her home in Brazil for a 9-month sabbatical at UNC Greensboro. The Brazilian clinical psychologist received a Fulbright Doctoral Dissertation Research Abroad Scholarship to complete her doctorate in clinical psychology and is currently working with faculty in the Human Development and Family Studies program in the School of Health and Human Sciences.   

Now four months into her time as a Fulbright visiting scholar with UNCG, Dias shared her experience so far and what she’s planning for the spring.  

What are you doing with your Fulbright Scholarship? 

I received the Doctoral Dissertation Research Abroad (DDRA) Scholarship from the Fulbright Commission in Brazil. I am part of the 2024-2025 cohort, along with 25 other Brazilians based in more than 10 states across the U.S.   

This award allows us to spend one academic year here, complementing research conducted in Brazil by providing access to advanced academic resources and opportunities for collaboration with U.S. institutions and specialists. Applicants for this scholarship must demonstrate the research’s relevance to both countries and how the U.S. experience will enhance the outcomes. This scholarship offers a unique international academic experience, enabling Brazilian doctoral students to collaborate on joint publications and establish future partnerships. It includes financial support for living expenses, health insurance, and round-trip airfare.  

How long will you be with UNC Greensboro?  

I arrived on August 6, 2024, and will stay until May 2025. The scholarship covers nine months, but I can enjoy a 30-day grace period to travel around the U.S. after my studies.  

Tell us about your life in Brazil. What is it like there for an academic?  

In addition to being a doctoral student in clinical psychology, I work as a clinical psychologist. Balancing both activities, along with personal life, is quite challenging. The first two years of the PhD are the hardest because they involve classes and in-person activities. However, the third and fourth years are more demanding in terms of writing dissertations and papers. Currently, in my third year, I managed to write three papers/chapters for my dissertation before coming here, which allows me to enjoy my time in the U.S. and focus on cultural exchange as well.  

What is the scope of your research?  

The scope of my doctoral research examines family and social relationships and their influence on the prevalence and severity of depressive symptoms among elderly individuals living in community settings in Brazil. I analyze this using the bioecological theory of human development.  

What faculty and students are you working with at UNC Greensboro?  

I am currently under the supervision of Dr. Sudha Shreeniwas and Dr. Elisa Merçon-Vargas, both from the Human Development and Family Studies program. I am also part of the CERSA Lab (Community-Engaged Research for Social Action) led by Dr. Sharon Morrison.  The group is highly diverse, with members from various countries researching the health of immigrant and refugee populations. It is an enriching environment where we also discuss mental health across different cultures.  

What has been the most surprising part of your Fulbright experience so far?  
  

The cultural exchange. I am living an American experience and meeting people from many countries I never imagined knowing. So far, I’ve met people from Jamaica, India, China, Afghanistan, Burma/Myanmar, Kenya, Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, and many other countries. I have also tried a variety of delicious foods, especially from Asia. I am very happy with my choice of Greensboro and UNCG, as I find the people here to be incredibly friendly and welcoming.  

Would you recommend the Fulbright experience to your colleagues in Brazil?  

I would absolutely recommend the Fulbright experience to my colleagues in Brazil—and even to Americans, as Fulbright offers numerous scholarships for American students to go abroad. It is an excellent opportunity to explore the world, experience diverse cultures, and meet amazing people. The cultural exchange is invaluable and extends far beyond the stipend provided to support this incredible journey.  

What is next for you?  

I am currently working on data analysis for the final chapter/paper of my dissertation. Additionally, I aim to collaborate on other projects to strengthen my academic profile. I plan to travel within the U.S., visiting some of my fellow Fulbright colleagues and spending time with them.  

Story by Alice Manning Touchette

Photography courtesy of Mirian Dias