lillie

Thank you both for your candid and helpful responses. You brought up very good points and will definitely help me rethink some things

I have not found out yet whether or not I have been accepted for a research Fulbright, however, I am struggling with what to do if I do get accepted. I know it is a huge honor and seen as ridiculous to not accept such a prestigious award, but I can't imagine leaving my boyfriend for that long and while he wants what's best for me he would be destroyed if I went. When I applied we were not dating. Our relationship is serious and because he's a little older he wants to settle down soon. His work and grad school schedule would make it difficult for him to come visit and I read we can only leave the country for 14 days total during the 9 months. On the other hand, my parents and everyone who has been involved with this process would be very disappointed if I did not accept it and I would be letting a lot of people down. I am so torn. While it would be an amazing opportunity and open up a lot of doors, if I did not do a Fulbright my career path would not suffer greatly. I have been applying to jobs and have received a few interviews for positions I really want and even a job offer. If I did accept it though, my personal life may suffer a lot and something I do not want to risk. Is anyone else dealing with a similar situation or am I just crazy for even thinking of rejecting a Fulbright?

Do you know if the number of applications applied includes all applicants or just ones recommended? Thanks!