Robert Gruber earns Fulbright Scholarship to Ireland
Released: April 18, 2008
A love for Ireland and 25 years of teaching experience makes for a great educational exchange. As a 2008 Fulbright Scholar, Robert Gruber, accounting professor and department chair at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, will bring his teaching experience and love of Gaelic culture to University College Dublin in Dublin, Ireland in January 2009.
The Fulbright Scholarship funds the international exchange of professors and lecturers. "I am so grateful for this opportunity to teach in the country that I have the utmost love and respect for," Gruber said. "I am humbled to have been selected a Fulbright Scholar."
Granted, Irish is a hybrid of the English language, and math is a universal language, Gruber acknowledges the cross-cultural differences that may affect his stay in the country and his effectiveness as an instructor. From an educational standpoint, Gruber is particularly concerned with bringing the American teaching method to Europe.
What Gruber does have in aid are his frequent trips to the country and the consult of his colleague. "I have had extended stays in the country, and I have been studying the culture for years," Gruber said. "Linda Reid, who manages the study abroad trip here, has made numerous trips there. She is my mentor, and I am sure I can gain additional insights from her."
In the spirit of Senator J. William Fulbright, who proposed the program to U.S Congress in 1945, Gruber is certain that this semester-long experience will make him a better instructor. "I teach international accounting at UW-Whitewater," he said. "What better way to teach international accounting than to teach it internationally. I will be able to provide UW-Whitewater students with examples and experience."
Gruber credits Denise Ehlen, senior administrator for research and sponsored programs, with helping him apply to the Fulbright Scholars Program. "Denise was instrumental in providing me suggestions and insights regarding how to apply for the program," he said. "And my wife is very supportive and strongly encouraged me to take advantage of this opportunity."
- LeQuez Spearman,spearmanlt22@uww.edu
