Center for the Study of Global Gender Equity
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Interview with Asmaa Elsayed: Insights on Graduate Studies Funding for Women
Asmaa Elsayed, Ph.D. Candidate, College of Education, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Ms. Elsayed is a past recipient of the Barbara A. Yates Graduate Fellowship and the Evelyne Accad and Paul Vieille International Research Award.
➢ How did you first learn about fellowships or other funding opportunities for graduate students? Where do you usually look for these opportunities?
As a former international and first-generation college student, I knew very little about fellowships, scholarships, or grants during my undergraduate studies. I first learned about these academic and professional development opportunities informally through conversations with classmates and colleagues. If this is your first time hearing about these opportunities, please don’t be hard on yourself—there is a learning curve for everyone. The important thing is that you are learning about them now. Think of this as your launching point: Take time to research, explore different funding options, and start identifying and applying for opportunities that align with your goals.
If you are a student at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, you have access to the Graduate College’s Office of External Fellowships, which manages and maintains the Illinois Database of Grants and Fellowships for Graduate Students—an excellent, searchable resource. This database allows you to explore funding opportunities based on your field of study, eligibility criteria, citizenship status, stage of study, and award type. It also provides detailed information on application deadlines and notes for each award, making it an exceptionally comprehensive and valuable tool for graduate students pursuing external funding.
Typically, each college, department, or cultural/resource center maintains its own list of awards, particularly internal funding opportunities, which are often posted on the unit’s website. Be sure to identify the opportunities most relevant to your research and future academic or professional goals. If you don’t see them online, don’t hesitate to reach out directly—contact the departmental coordinator to ask where you can learn more about available funding and how to apply. When reaching out, it is helpful to introduce yourself in your email, briefly mentioning your program, research interests, and the type of funding you are seeking. Providing this context helps the recipient understand your goals and connect you with the most appropriate resources.
Another strategy I’ve found helpful is reading the resumes of professors I admire and colleagues I respect. I pay attention to the fellowships and grants they’ve received, as well as the professional associations they are involved with. This approach often introduces me to funding opportunities and networks I hadn’t previously known about. Most faculty and graduate students make their CVs available on their departments’ websites, scholarly profiles, or professional platforms like LinkedIn—so it is worth reviewing these resources. In addition to uncovering potential funding sources, this practice provides insight into how professionals in your field present their experiences, accomplishments, and expertise. That perspective can be incredibly valuable as you craft or refine your own resume, which is often a required component of most funding applications.
➢ With so many options available, how do you decide which opportunity is the right fit for your goals?
The best place to start is by clearly identifying your goals and needs—your “why.” Ask yourself what you hope to gain from a fellowship or internship: Is it financial support, research experience, professional development, or networking opportunities? Most opportunities offer a combination of two or three of these benefits. Once you have a clear understanding of your priorities, it becomes much easier to evaluate which opportunities align with your academic and professional goals. Rather than trying to apply for everything—which is neither feasible nor recommended—focus your energy on the fellowships or grants that are the best fit: those that support your current research and work while also helping you advance toward your long-term aspirations.
Here are a few key factors to help narrow your search:
- Research Focus: Identify fellowships that support your specific research focus or areas of inquiry (e.g., languages, gender, development).
- Target Populations: Look for fellowships aimed at, or focused on, the communities you study or work with (e.g., international students, first-generation students, multilingual students, students with special needs, African American students, Native American students). Campus resource centers are a great place to explore opportunities connected to your target population.
- Geographic Relevance: Many fellowships are region-specific. Prioritize those connected to your area of research or interest (e.g., Europe, Latin America, Africa). Cultural centers may have connections or leads related to specific regions.
- Academic Stage: Make sure you are applying at the appropriate level—some fellowships are specifically for master’s students, while others are for PhD students at particular stages (e.g., pre-dissertation, fieldwork and data collection, or dissertation writing).
Being intentional about these categories will help you find academic and professional development opportunities that are a strong match for your work—and increase your chances of success.
➢ Once you have identified an opportunity you are interested in, what are your first steps? How do you plan and organize the application process to stay on track and avoid burning out?
I begin by listing all the academic and professional development opportunities I plan to apply for, along with their application deadlines—organized chronologically, with the soonest deadlines at the top—and a detailed checklist of requirements for each opportunity. I keep this list in multiple visible places to stay on track.
One of the first tasks I complete is ordering transcripts, if formal transcripts are required, since they can take time to arrive. I also identify my recommenders and send them an introduction email. In this email, I provide a list of all the opportunities I plan to apply for, along with a brief description of each and a brief explanation of why I am applying—how each opportunity will help advance my academic and professional goals. I ask my recommenders how much time they need to write me the letters and whether they would like me to outline key points for them to highlight for each opportunity.
If this is my very first application, I create a master document where I record all relevant coursework, research projects, language courses and proficiency, experience with the target population or regional focus, leadership roles, community and campus service, professional associations and memberships, personal challenges I’ve overcome, and my academic and professional goals. I make sure to include everything, even if it doesn’t seem immediately relevant, knowing that I can reframe and edit later. These lists become a valuable resource for writing personal statements, research proposals, updating résumés, and preparing for interviews, and they can be continuously updated and reused over time.
If possible, I start early and write a little every day. Even a paragraph at a time adds up, and having a draft early allows me to get feedback sooner, which ultimately strengthens the application. This approach helps me stay organized, focused, and prevents feeling overwhelmed during the process. That said, life happens, and many of us have work responsibilities and family obligations to balance with being graduate students. When that happens, I urge you to do the best you can and submit your application. Nothing is ever truly “complete” in a literal sense; every piece of work is evolving and in progress. Do the best you can. I remember times when I put together a successful application just one week before the deadline—after years of practice writing and rewriting many applications. While this is not ideal, and if there is a way to avoid unnecessary stress, it is best to start early, even if slowly.
Tip for those just starting and planning to continue in academia: One of my former classmates developed an excellent way to stay organized by creating an Academic and Professional Development Excel sheet. In the first column, she listed the deadline—since timing is the most critical. The second column included the name of the opportunity, followed by a brief description and what it offers. She added an eligibility criteria column and another for application requirements, with checkboxes to track her progress. To stay on top of deadlines, she would also add each one to her calendar with reminders set for 14 and 7 days in advance. Her system kept her highly organized, and it showed—she became an incredibly accomplished professor in her field. This was her vocation, not just a job or even a career; she was deeply invested and loved what she did. This is just one example of how you can take control of your application process and stay on track. If I had known about this system during my first year of grad school, I would have fully adopted it and even built it into a shared resource for my classmates and colleagues. It is such a valuable way to stay organized and support one another.
➢ What challenges did you face while writing your applications, and how did you overcome them?
I’m a visual and hands-on learner, and I always find it helpful to look at real examples—not just general templates—of successful applications. Some fellowships provide sample materials directly on their websites, and I highly recommend studying those closely. For fellowships that don’t offer examples, I research past recipients. I look up previous fellows, often listed on the program website, and reach out to them directly. In my message, I introduce myself, mention that I’m applying for the same fellowship, and congratulate them on receiving the award. I then politely ask if they would be willing to share their application materials—especially their personal statement or research proposal—assuring them that I won’t share them with anyone else. If they aren’t comfortable sharing their essays, I ask if they would be open to offering any advice or insights based on their experience. You’ll likely get a range of responses, but in my experience, many past fellows are generous with their time and either share their materials or offer valuable guidance. I always thank them sincerely and express your appreciation. If I end up winning the fellowship, I make sure to send them a thank-you note and share the good news. Remember, these individuals are your future colleagues and mentors—building respectful and thoughtful connections now can go a long way later.
I’ve also noticed that for applicants whose first language is not English, or for those entering a new field of study or research, it is especially important to get as much feedback as possible. This helps ensure you are using the correct terminology and clearly explaining your research methods. Ideally, you want an expert reader to read, and review, your essay without any lingering questions or confusion. To achieve this, I reach out to a range of people—former fellows, peers, faculty members (including my academic advisor), and writing consultants at the campus writing center. I ask if they would be willing to review my materials and how much time they need to provide feedback. I’ve found it helpful to compile my materials in a shared e-document, such as Google Docs, so I can track all comments and suggestions in one place. That said, some readers may prefer to give feedback on a printed copy or may not want their comments visible to others, so I always ask about and accommodate their preferences. Receiving helpful feedback not only reassures me that I’m on the right track but also allows me to incorporate diverse perspectives and address any gaps in clarity, content, or structure.
➢ What tips, techniques, or resources helped you strengthen your application?
In addition to the resources I shared earlier, I try to ensure that every part of my application works together to present a comprehensive, well-rounded picture of who I am—like puzzle pieces that, when assembled, create a full, multidimensional portrait. Not just of me as a scholar, but also as a campus leader, community volunteer, first-generation student, bilingual learner—essentially, all the identities and experiences that shape who I am and how I show up in my work. I think of each component as a window into a different side of my journey, my identity, my research, and my work. For example, if my personal and research statements don’t provide space to highlight my community service or campus leadership roles, I make sure those experiences are reflected in my letters of recommendation, especially when relevant. If my language skills are critical for working with a specific population or region but don’t fit naturally into my personal statement, I include them clearly in my résumé or research proposal. Once I’ve drafted all components of my application, I read them together and ask myself: Have I given reviewers a real opportunity to see me and understand the value and impact of my work? Is there an important part of my story, my identity, or my work that is missing? If so, where and how can I bring it to life?
➢ Are there any common mistakes applicants should avoid?
A common mistake applicants make is not taking the time to research the funding organization or campus unit offering the fellowship or grant. To craft a strong and well-aligned application, it is essential to understand who they are, what they stand for, and how your work connects to their mission. Start by reading their mission statement, reviewing recent projects, events, or publications, and looking into the work of past fellows. Pay close attention to the language they use to describe their goals and values, and when appropriate, incorporate that language into your materials. For example, if they use terms like “minoritized women” instead of “minority women,” or “Global South” instead of “developing countries,” reflect that in your writing. This not only shows that you’ve done your homework—it signals that you are already thinking and communicating in ways that align with their vision. The more familiar you are with the funding organization, the better you can position yourself as a strong candidate. For instance, in one of my applications, I learned that the fellowship prioritized empowering women affected by the multigenerational impact of illiteracy. I intentionally highlighted my identity as a first-generation, non-traditional student, sharing that my grandmothers never had the opportunity to step foot in a classroom. I framed my education—as the first woman in my family to pursue doctoral studies—as a way of breaking that cycle. In doing so, I wasn’t just showing how my research and academic goals aligned with their mission—I was also demonstrating how my personal journey embodied the very values they were committed to. That made my application resonate on a much deeper level and feel much more authentic.
Another common mistake is describing experiences in vague terms without demonstrating their impact. Saying what you did is a start but showing how you did it—and why it mattered—makes your application far more compelling. For example, when I applied for a professional development fellowship for junior scholars committed to mentoring minoritized students, I didn’t just say that I worked with the Office of Minority Student Affairs. Instead, I shared specific details: how long I worked there, how many students I mentored, my mentoring philosophy, and the strategies I used to support students who were struggling the most. I included success stories that highlighted the real impact of my work. I went further by connecting that experience to my teaching and mentoring values—explaining how it shaped my commitment to creating inclusive, safe, and brave classroom spaces where diversity and equity are central. In short: don’t just list what you’ve done—bring it to life. Use vivid details, real stories, and measurable outcomes to show your impact. This not only demonstrates your potential but also proves your track record of turning words into action.
Also, avoid lukewarm letters of recommendation. Start early by building genuine relationships with faculty members, mentors, and supervisors in your department and school, and most importantly, with your academic advisor. Attend office hours, participate in department events and brown bags, and take advantage of networking opportunities. These relationships take time, so be intentional and consistent. Once you’ve identified two or three faculty members who can write you letters, reach out to them early. Share a list of funding opportunities you are applying for, along with deadlines, and ask how much time they need to provide thoughtful feedback. Offer materials such as your personal statement, résumé, or a bullet-point list of achievements and experiences you would like them to highlight, especially if your relationship with the recommender isn’t particularly close. It is appropriate to explain why the opportunity aligns with your academic and career goals, why you are a strong fit, and which aspects of your work, research, leadership, service, or identity you hope they can emphasize. Once the letter is written, make sure to provide clear, accurate submission instructions, and, if needed, send a polite reminder as the deadline approaches. Always follow up with a sincere thank-you note, acknowledging their time, effort, and continued support.
➢ What campus resources were most helpful to you during the application process?
If you are a student at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, the Writers Workshop is an excellent resource. They offer free support for all types of academic and professional writing at any stage of the writing process. Their services include writing groups, presentations, and one-on-one consultations, available both in person and virtually. I’ve personally used their services several times to get feedback on my personal and research statements, and I found their input incredibly helpful. That said, it is fair to note that not all writing consultants have the same level of expertise or experience. I recommend reading their bios online before scheduling an appointment, as many include information about their academic background and publications. This can help you choose a consultant whose strengths align with your specific writing needs.
➢ After submitting your applications, how did you handle the waiting period and manage any anxiety or uncertainty?
I know the waiting period can be tough. I try to remind myself of my circle of influence—what I can and cannot control. I can control the time and effort I put into crafting a strong application. But the outcome? That’s beyond my control. So, I practice letting go of the results and focusing instead on the process. I think of every application—and honestly, everything I do—as a seed I plant in my academic, professional, and personal life. I may not see it bloom right away, or even in this particular season—but the seed is planted. As long as I stay consistent and keep showing up, growth will come—in its own time and in its own way.
Most importantly, I remind myself that others—whether family, culture, society, or career expectations—don’t define me. I define myself. My view of myself is what matters most. Winning a fellowship is wonderful, but for me, the real win is taking another step toward genuine self-respect and a deeper sense of worth. Even if I don’t get it, I made the decision to see myself as worthy of competing. I showed up for myself and put in the effort, despite not knowing the outcome. That speaks volumes about my relationship with myself, and honestly, that relationship is what I try to nurture above all else. It is the most important relationship I will ever have.
➢ What advice would you give students who are just starting to think about applying for fellowships? Any encouragement or final words you would like to share?
Don’t disqualify yourself—seriously! Your job is to show up for yourself and put in the work, period. We all wrestle with imposter syndrome (some of us are on a first-name basis with it!), but don’t let that stop you. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you have every right to apply—so go for it! Hit submit and give yourself a fair shot.
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