Applying for a Watson: Sira Nassoko ’24 Reflections on the Application Process

Written by Hope Zionts ’26

Sira Nassoko ’24 is departing on her Watson Fellowship titled “Sounds of Hope” on July 30. She will be traveling to Finland, Rwanda, Argentina, and Australia where she will “examine the unique sound history in four culturally distinct countries and develop a digital anthology of soundscapes and stories that uncover the relationship between hope and violence.”
Sounds of Hope

Before she leaves on this incredible adventure, we asked Sira how the Watson application process has shaped her life journey thus far. When drafting a project proposal, applicants conduct thorough research to acquire contacts for their intended locations. As Sira was “exploring potential contacts and sites throughout the months leading up to the campus deadline,” she was able to learn more “about the amazing work already being done to confront violence through sound and music.” This research process, Sira says, “really affirmed my own interests and commitment to my project.”

The Watson application requires a personal statement in addition to the project proposal. Sira said “Because my project partially centers around pain/conflict/violence/justice, I knew I had to be really particular and mindful about how I was communicating my goals for my potential year, and I feel that towards the end of the application process I knew what language best expressed both my personal and project interests.”

Sira also shares that “even the more “tedious” parts of the application, like putting together a comprehensive budget or finalizing a contact list, were really fundamental to shaping how I thought about my project and how I was potentially engaging with the communities I planned to work with.”

A Watson journey, although individual, is far from solitary. When applying, Sira says “having so many friends and mentors show support and offer guidance really emphasized how important collaboration will be on my journey.”

By going through the Watson application process, Sira has learned “to embrace slowness and intentionality, but also take risks and seek out alternative, less acknowledged means of learning about the world!”

Learn more by visiting the Watson Fellowship website and the Global Fellowships and Awards overview page. Then schedule an advising meeting with Ann Landstrom, Grinnell College Fulbright Program Advisor (FPA) and Assistant Dean and Director of Global Fellowships and Awards, through Handshake.

In summer 2023, Sira conducted independent research in the Middle East and North Africa for her Mellon Mays Research project.

As a music major, Sira performed her senior bass recital on May 8, 2024.

Photos submitted by Sira Nassoko.

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