Pompiliu-Nicolae Constantin

Home Institution: National University of Physical Education and Sports, Bucharest 
Host University: Pennsylvania State University
Field: Sports Diplomacy/History
Type of Grant: Research

The experience of being a Fulbright Visiting Scholar at Penn State University was truly enriching. As a historian working with primary sources, I value the opportunity it provided me to access repositories that would have been otherwise difficult to reach in locations like Washington, New York, or Los Angeles. Furthermore, I was able to make use of the extensive library collection at Penn State University, which housed numerous titles not easily obtainable in Romania. Additionally, it was highly beneficial to be affiliated with the Department of Kinesiology, as it enabled me to interact with globally renowned researchers from diverse fields, including sports historians Mark Dyreson, Jaime Schulz, and Michelle Sikes, as well as sports philosopher Francisco Javier Lopez Frias. I particularly appreciated the research trip organized by Mark Dyreson to the National Archives at College Park, Maryland, as well as my involvement in the weekly seminars for PhD students focusing on the history and philosophy of sports, and the journal club meetings where I received valuable feedback on my research.

Coming from a university with a focus on sports to Penn State University, well-known for its extensive sports facilities, provided me with a valuable opportunity to deepen my understanding of American culture, specifically the intricacies of college sports.

At a personal level, the experience of living in State College and visiting different American cities was immensely enjoyable and memorable. The tranquility and serenity of State College was in contrast with the hustle and bustle of the big cities. The deep appreciation for nature and the impressive museums were particularly noteworthy. Additionally, my wife and I established meaningful relationships with residents from diverse social backgrounds, receiving warm welcomes and engaging in enriching interactions.

The Fulbright experience broadened my perspectives and offered valuable insights and connections for my future academic pursuits. Moreover, it inspired ideas that I intend to implement at my university.