Romania took hold of my heart in 2015 and since then has consumed my mind and soul. As with any genuine commitment, my relationship with this beautiful, complex country has grown and deepened over time as I have learned of its many tragedies, as well as its many triumphs. I have surrendered myself to Romania. [...] As I continue my Romanian journey, I marvel over the resiliency and fortitude of the people. I am fortunate to have developed close relationships, familial in many ways, with many Romanians. And I am eternally grateful to have been granted a Fulbright and honored to become part of this amazing community.
The Pre-departure Orientation for 2018-2019 Romanian Fulbright Grantees and Independent Students
On Friday, June 29, the Romanian-U.S. Fulbright Commission hosted its Pre-departure Orientation Seminar devoted to the Romanian Fulbright grantees and independent students leaving for the U.S. to study or conduct research in the academic year 2018-2019.
The proceedings started with a series of welcome speeches by distinguished guest speakers representing the U.S. Embassy in Romania, the Fulbright Board of Directors, the U.S. Fulbright Scholars and the alumni community. The speakers insisted on the importance of the Fulbright program, which has helped build bridges of friendship and understanding between our two countries.
The agenda was intense and comprehensive: Romanian Alumni and U.S. Fulbright Scholars participated in several panel discussions, offering practical information to the current grantees starting their U.S. Fulbright experience in the coming months. We were also joined by representatives of the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy Bucharest who provided specific details and advice on J & F visas. The workshop “Emotional Tools for Shaping a Satisfying Fulbright Experience,” which concluded the Orientation, offered guidance and practical tips to all the students and scholars preparing for their forthcoming departure to the U.S., to help them overcome the pressure of adjusting to a new environment.
The Romanian grantees and independent students had the unique opportunity this year to also take part in the celebration of the Independence Day organized by the U.S. Embassy in the evening.
We wish all the best to the 2018-2019 group of Romanian students and scholars and look forward to hearing from them as they embark on their experience in the U.S.!