Global Lessons: How a Fulbright Journey to Kenya Transformed a Scholar’s Work and Worldview
A Fulbright scholar's journey to Kenya has become a career-defining chapter marked by compassion, connection and cultural exchange. Whether through academic collaboration or sharing a traditional Korean meal with students, Dr. Sungseek Moon, embraced every opportunity to foster mutual understanding. From delivering a sermon in Thika to helping distribute food to over 1,000 homeless individuals in Nairobi, the experience highlighted the profound impact of empathy and community.
“As an academic dedicated to global health and social work, I have long admired the Fulbright Program’s mission to foster mutual understanding through educational and cultural exchange,” Moon said.
During his time in Nairobi, Moon had the privilege of supporting the local community through a food delivery initiative in Kariko. The experience was humbling and inspiring, as he witnessed the resilience and strength of the community despite immense challenges.
“I was also inspired by past Fulbrighters who shared how transformative the experience had been, both personally and professionally,” Moon said.
While at the University of Nairobi, Moon aimed to teach a course in epidemiological research methods and conduct collaborative research with local scholars and develop a culturally responsive prevention model for substance use among Kenyan youth.
“As a token of appreciation and to foster cultural exchange, I invited my students to a Korean restaurant at the conclusion of the course,” Moon said. “Sharing a traditional Korean meal together created a meaningful and memorable experience, enriching our connection beyond the classroom and celebrating the spirit of collaboration and learning.”
Moon was deeply moved by the resilience of the Kenyan people particularly in underserved communities. The collaboration with local scholars taught him how to approach research and education through a truly global and culturally grounded lens.
“The experience has broadened my perspective on global health disparities and reinforced the importance of culturally responsive research,” Moon said. “I plan to incorporate more international and comparative content into my courses...and pursue international research grants focusing on adolescent health and well-being".
Working with his research team, Moon started a study to find new ways to prevent substance use among young people in Kenya. The study's findings will support an NIH grant proposal aimed at developing effective, scalable interventions for Kenyan youth.
“This Fulbright experience has been one of the most meaningful in my career,” Moon said. “Whether through academic collaboration or simply sharing a traditional Korean meal with my students at the end of the semester...Kenya now holds a special place in my heart”.