The Fulbright scholars program is awarded to students looking to bring their education to a world stage, building lifelong connections through opportunities in learning and teaching in another nation. Peter Wildgruber ’24 is currently a Fulbright scholar in Vienna, Austria.
After graduating from Gettysburg College, Peter Wildgruber ’24 relocated across the globe as a Fulbright scholar to pursue numerous intellectual opportunities in Vienna, Austria, bringing his own love for learning to a new group of students.
A history and German studies double major, he has built upon the knowledge and enduring skills he gained at Gettysburg as an English teaching assistant at two schools in Vienna, Sigmund Freud Gymnasium and Bundesgymnasium Zirkusgasse. While there, he also furthered his own education through the history bachelor’s program at the University of Vienna.
“It is incredibly rewarding to share my perspective on American culture with students who are so curious and eager to learn,” said Wildgruber.
Through his Fulbright scholarship, he has also had the opportunity to work with the Jewish Museum of Vienna’s archivists and curators to research the history of the region.
“I have been brought on as an archival intern and have been tasked with examining objects not yet accessioned into their collection,” he said. “It’s fascinating work, and I hope to find objects or records that will inform my project.”
Wildgruber’s ability to teach, conduct research, and attend university abroad is made possible by a Fulbright scholarship Combined Grant through the U.S. Student Program. This program helps college students advance in their professional career by pursuing higher education in more than 140 countries worldwide, sharing their experiences and knowledge with host countries in the home, classroom, and field they are pursuing.
“Since graduating from Gettysburg with my degree in history and German studies, I feel like I have been launched into the real world,” said Wildgruber, reflecting on his move to Austria. “I struggled to find an apartment, figure out my new insurance, and generally settle in. Now I am confident.”
“More important than the product of my research is the people that I meet and the network I build. That is the ultimate goal of Fulbright,” he continued. “This grant allows me to live in a city steeped with history, work in a foreign language, and meet teachers, artists, scholars, and experts of every possible field. Whether I sign up for a second year of teaching, go on to law school, or pursue museum studies, the network of friends and professional contacts I have made here will be a part of my decision.”
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By Ainsley Green ’27
Photos courtesy of Peter Wildgruber ’24
Posted: 11/21/24