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.
Fulbright Presence at the New Academic Year Festivities Hosted the University of Bucharest
On October 2nd, in the presence of Romanian and American guests, the American Studies program at the University of Bucharest kicked off the new academic year with a special ceremony attended by current students and alumni as well as faculty and staff. Special welcome addresses were given by Ms. Merry Miller, Public Affairs Officer, U.S. Embassy, Dr. Rodica Mihaila, Executive Director of the Fulbright Commission, Dr. Octavian Roske, Head of the English Department and Professor of English and American Studies, Dr. Roxana Oltean, Coordinator of the American Studies program and Professor of English and American Studies, as well as Ms. Karina Patrascanu, PhD student in American Studies and alumna of the American Studies program. Dr. Mihaila addressed the audience in her capacity as pioneer of the institutionalization of American Studies in Romania and founder of the American Studies program at the University of Bucharest, encouraging the students to make the most of the opportunities afforded to them by their chosen study path.