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.
Pre-departure Orientation for 2024-2025 Romanian Fulbright Grantees
On June 20, the Romanian-U.S. Fulbright Commission held its Pre-departure Orientation Seminar for the Romanian Fulbright grantees preparing to embark on their study or research grants in the U.S. for the 2024-2025 academic year.
Distinguished speakers, including Peter H. Brown, Cultural Attaché at the U.S. Embassy, Marta Nedelcu, Diplomat, Department of Cultural Diplomacy, Education, and Science of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Alina Bârgăoanu, Member of the Board of Directors and Professor at the National University of Political Studies and Public Administration, Mihaela Precup, Fulbright Alumna and Associate Professor at the University of Bucharest, and Mircea Dumitru, Executive Director of the Fulbright Commission, opened the event with welcome addresses, sharing their perspectives on the Fulbright program and congratulating the grantees.
The agenda featured panel discussions and Q&A sessions with Fulbright Alumni, who played a key role throughout the day by providing practical advice, valuable insights and guidance. They also shared personal stories of their Fulbright experiences in the U.S., their transition back to Romania, and the impact of their grants on their professional projects. John Gimbel, Consul General of the U.S. Embassy, gave a presentation on J&F visas, providing important information and addressing questions from the attendees. Cătălina Popoviciu, Fulbright alumna with expertise in psychology, mental health, and well-being, facilitated an engaging workshop on diversity, equity, and inclusion in U.S. academia, as well as building emotional resilience in unfamiliar settings.
The event wrapped up with an evening reception at Casa Oamenilor de Știință, celebrating the grantees, alumni, and partners of the Fulbright program.
We wish the 2024-2025 Romanian Fulbright grantees success and look forward to hearing about their accomplishments in the U.S.!