“I came to the realization that if I wanted to be a part of Notre Dame, I would have to be a part of a culture that is very open and welcoming,” said Pooja Ranade.

Ranade is one of 11 Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistants (FLTAs) on campus for the 2018/19 academic year. The scholar from Pune, India is part of a prestigious program that supports teaching assistantships in over 30 languages at hundreds of higher learning institutions. 

During her time on campus, she became involved with several cultural events to help introduce a new language and perspective. She participated in a new series titled “Who’s at the Table? First Person Stories on Identity and Culture.” Through first person stories, students discuss culture and identity, which is meant to inspire and spark conversations for all attendees. The event targets international graduate students, but anyone who has spent a significant time outside of their home country and discovered something new about their story is welcome.

Ranade shared a personal story of transformation. She said that Notre Dame taught her to smile, something the introvert typically did back at home to only family and friends. She said there are cultural differences that have influenced her as a professional, especially as an assistant professor of English at a university in India. 

“It wasn’t a natural thing for me,” reflected Ranade. “But I remember feeling so calm and happy -  I wanted to hold on to that feeling.”

She said simple action of smiling connected her to campus in a way that she never imagined. Ranade is thankful for the opportunity to share her language and culture with the Notre Dame community. Her program was full of enriching opportunities, allowing her to connect with students from around the world and fulfill professional development goals. Most importantly, it’s led to discoveries about herself. 

“I am leaving as a truly different person thanks to Notre Dame and Fulbright,” said Ranade. “I am smiling right now as I think about my future.”