Fatmata Barrie, a PhD candidate from Dr. Michele Manuel’s research group, has been awarded a research grant through the Fulbright U.S. Student Program. She will be conducting research in Indonesia for 10 months after taking part in a 3 month language study, also in Indonesia. Fatmata will be investigating bamboo reinforced concrete for improved structural resistance to earthquake damage. The Fulbright U.S. Student Program awards grants to students allowing them to conduct research or teach English in a number of countries around the world to facilitate a cultural exchange.