I'm currently a junior engineering student in the US and I've just started to consider grad school prospects and the possibility of studying and researching abroad. Of course, this had led me to discover the Fulbright and all its possibilities. The good news is that I've already identified my country (Sweden); this is based upon my study and interest in room acoustics and not any predetermined desire to live or travel here (though it would be nice). From what I've read, the academic fit is the #1 priority for selecting a country, so I think I've already done well in this regard. Since my field is relatively small, it was easy to research possibilities and ultimately pick what would be best for me.
I'm looking for guidance/advice on what to do next. Should I start drafting my statement of purpose and research proposal or should I try to develop my affiliation? I know what university I want to go to and I have a very small friend-of-a-friend-of-a-friend type of connection to a senior professor and a leader of the research department at my proposed university. I'm thinking I should try to cultivate my affiliation because I'm not 100% set on a specific research topic, but rather a broader field in general. I'm open to suggestions though.
This was written rather hastily, so let me know if you need any additional information about me.
I'm glad to have found this forum ... seems incredibly informative and helpful in general. Thanks for any help.