Dr. Jacquelyn Berry is a former Fulbright US Scholar to Egypt and cognitive scientist who studies learning, expertise, and human-computer interaction. Her debut book FIND YOUR CARROT was inspired by her Fulbright experience. Dr. Berry has taught a number of courses about psychological research methodology, language, and even becoming an expert. Jacquelyn is a co-founding member of Artificial Intelligence for Africa and has spoken before the United Nations about her work in Egypt. Dr. Berry is senior warden of Christ Church Episcopal in Red Hook, NY, and is competing for the title of Mrs. New York America this summer.
Where did you do your Fulbright and what was the purpose of the study grant?
I did my Fulbright in Egypt at the American University in Cairo. My research award was joint teaching and research; I taught research methods in psychology and From Novice to Expert: The Science of Expertise. This latter course led me to write my new book, debuting in two weeks, ‘Find Your Carrot’ which is about chasing dreams as a way of life. For research I studied how Arabic-English bilingual students, such as those at the American University, would perform when switching between two different interfaces for the same, complex, computer-based tasks. It was a lot of fun and I feel on the verge of discovering new, ecologically sound cognitive theories.
How did you engage with the local people?
I lived in an apartment near campus. Rather than taking the shuttle to and from campus I walked back and forth every day. I only took the shuttle once. This gave me a feel for the culture and the lay of the land and I shopped nearby in the grocery stores and malls. I behaved like any other Cairo resident. On weekends I would go to the mall and hang out a lot with my friend and fellow Fulbrighter Katie. She and I spent a lot of time walking and shopping in Cairo. I also did a lot of things with local people in small local shops like shopping in markets, eating in restaurants, getting my nails done, and even having my hair put in braids for the first time in many years. Even though I hired two tutors I didn’t speak the language very well but was always willing to go out and try. My family stayed back home in NY so if I wasn’t with Katie, I was alone a lot in the city, touring, shopping, and getting things done.
What was the most rewarding aspect of your Fulbright experience?
The University was extremely supportive of me and my efforts. My teaching and research assignments went off without a hitch. I also went on a lot of little trips in and around Egypt with the University. These were great, I got to see so many things outside of Cairo and all the wonder and history of Egypt.
What surprised you the most?
How cold it gets! We tend to think of Egypt as a hot place, which it is! However, it starts cooling off in October, just like in New York, and by December you need the heat on all the time. Add to that the wind and even though it never goes below freezing you can definitely feel the weather.
Did Covid-19 affect your experience, and if so, how?
Yes, in March, when the covid pandemic hit, it was clear that things would be restricted going forward. As a result, the State Department recalled all Fulbrighter’s and we were instructed to make our way home.
How did you prepare in the year/months prior to departure?
I spent a lot of time shopping online for things I might need. I didn’t realize that I would be able to get just about everything I wanted at the malls there, I wasn’t sure what to expect! I learned a little bit of Arabic and worked to solidify my thoughts around my research goals.
How were you received as an American?
Very well. As a person of color many fellow Americans and tourists didn’t really recognize that I was also from the US. However, the Egyptians could instantly tell and would speak to me in English and treat me accordingly.
What advice do you have for students considering applying?
Plan very well but only up to about 70% of your journey. The big stuff like where you’ll live and sleep and work and spending cash. Outside of that be open to the journey. There is so much that can happen spontaneously and organically, it’s amazing to watch it unfold!
The Fulbright U.S. Student Program provides year-long awards for research, study, or English Teaching Assistant positions abroad.
