"In the end, the only empty word one will use to describe all these is experience. It is an empty word, but if the receivers have the necessary patience to listen it may turn into a word filled with stories, emotions, knowledge, and friendships."
Răzvan Săftoiu
Junior Fulbright Researcher, 2005-2006
Through the Eyes of a Fulbrighter: An American Experience
State University of New York (SUNY) at Albany, the institution where I have been carrying my research project during the academic year 2005-2006, was established in 1844 and ranks among the top American public universities.
My research project included both practical and theoretical issues. For the practical part, I had to complete a course in research ethics, write and submit a research proposal, and get approval from the IRB (Internal Review Board), the institution that keeps records of the research carried with SUNY Albany. It is a laborious work, but in the end you know you have everything clear and you can start your project. For the theoretical part, I mainly worked with my advisor, Dr. Anita Pomerantz, and I took courses in Interpersonal Interaction, Health Communication and Conversation Analysis. Taking some graduate classes offers the opportunity to compare the efficiency of two educational systems: Romanian and American. I can say that the most visible difference between the two educational systems at university level is the primary focus on lecturing in most Romanian universities and focus on applying concepts in most American universities.
Every second semester, starting with the end of February until the end of April, Fulbright organizes enrichment seminars for first-year grantees in different locations: Chicago, San Francisco, Phoenix, Miami, New York City. These seminars are opportunities for Fulbrighters around the world to meet and talk about their experiences in the US. Probably this is the best lesson one can learn while living in a foreign country: you have to push your limits and adapt to every new situation that is arising. Although in the beginning one may feel stressed and unhappy, (s)he will come to realize that in fact it is an awakening of his/ her conscience; it is character building. In the end, the only empty word (s)he will use to describe all these is experience. It is an empty word, but if receivers have the necessary patience to listen it may turn into a word filled with stories, emotions, knowledge, and friendships.
Romanian Alumni Stories
"I will be first to admit that Fulbright is a magic word and a way to feel empowered. But I also realize that Fulbright is more than a new 'identity' to be proud of: it is a great responsibility and a framework that encourages you to do creative work. Being a Fulbrighter is a duty to question yourself, who you are, what is 'that thing' you could do as the highest of your potential, and how can you contribute to others' lives."