Andrei Stupu

Home University: Babeș-Bolyai University & University of Bucharest
Host University: Harvard University
Field: Educational Philosophy

When I first learned about Fulbright, I came across a testimonial from a Greek Fulbright alumna, Maria Papanikolaou, who said that Fulbright not only opens doors, but actually creates them. On top of becoming a Fulbrighter, being invited to pursue my research with Professor Danielle Allen at Harvard University was one of the most significant opportunities of my life. Fortunately, at Harvard, I had all the support I needed to make the most of this experience. I was constantly involved in the Allen Lab for Democracy Renovation at the Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation at the Harvard Kennedy School. I also became a center associate at the Safra Center for Ethics and participated in meetings of the Democratic Knowledge Project, based at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

As a Harvard Fulbrighter, I was able to expand my professional network meaningfully, which enabled me to complete my research in ethical-moral intelligence after receiving direct feedback from leading figures in the fields of human intelligence, moral psychology, and moral philosophy. I had the honor of exchanging ideas about intelligence with Professor Howard Gardner, the father of the multiple intelligences theory. I also engaged with Professor Robert Sternberg’s research community at Cornell University and refined my own conceptual model of the emerging intelligence I proposed, obtaining their support and invaluable guidance.

At Harvard, fulfillment came not only from having an incomparable platform for intellectual growth, but also from being part of a nurturing community dedicated to making me feel integrated and heard. My colleagues from the Allen Lab and the Ash Center organized a Romanian Country Night, during which I presented our customs, history, and gastronomy, contributing to building bridges between our cultures. In March, almost all affiliates, members, and staff at the Ash Center wore a “mărțișor” bracelet for good luck, created in the workshop that followed my presentation. This type of respect and consideration was extremely touching, and I will be forever grateful to Professor Allen, my colleagues at Harvard, and the Fulbright program for making this experience possible.