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.
The Fulbright Commission Welcomes the New Group of U.S. Fulbright Grantees
From September 25 to 27, the Romanian-U.S. Fulbright Commission hosted an Orientation event for the new cohort of U.S. Fulbright grantees. The event welcomed 28 Fulbrighters and their families, who have recently arrived in Romania. More U.S. grantees will join during the second semester, bringing the total to 38 American participants for this academic year.
This year’s cohort comprises a diverse group of U.S. Scholars, Student Researchers, and English Teaching Assistants (ETAs), who will be engaged in research and teaching across various disciplines in 14 cities throughout Romania.
Day 1: Higher Education Overview and Mentorship for ETAs
The first day of orientation was dedicated to the ETAs, with sessions focused on education and teaching. Dr. Simona Iftimescu from the University of Bucharest presented an overview titled “Higher Education in Romania – Overview and Processes.” This was followed by a session on “Best Practices for Teaching EFL and American Culture in Romania,” delivered by 2023-2025 U.S. ETAs Catherine Johnson and Ricky Gonzalez.
In the afternoon, the ETAs had the opportunity to meet their university mentors from cities such as Arad, Bacău, Baia Mare, Brașov, Bucharest, Constanța, Craiova, Galați, Iași, Oradea, Sibiu, Suceava, and Timișoara.
Day 2: Official Welcome and Academic & Cultural Insights
On September 26, the group was formally welcomed by distinguished U.S. and Romanian officials, including H.E. Kathleen Kavalec, U.S. Ambassador to Romania, Mr. Andrei Cosmin Luca, Director of the Department of Cultural Diplomacy, Education and Science at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Cristina Chevereșan, Fulbright Alumna and Professor at West University of Timișoara, and Prof. Mircea Dumitru, Executive Director of the Fulbright Commission.
The grantees also attended a briefing with U.S. Embassy Cultural Affairs Officer Peter H. Brown, who provided key information on security, consular services, health, and public diplomacy matters.
In the afternoon, Fulbright alumni Dr. Loredana Bercuci and Dr. Mihai Bogdan Iovu shared their perspectives on academic life and culture in Romania. Additionally, Dr. Dana Solonean led a session on “Addressing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Romania,” followed by a talk from Prof. Dragoș Iliescu on “Emotional Tools for Shaping the Fulbright Experience.” Dr. Mona Moldoveanu Pologea rounded out the day with tips on cultural adaptation.
The day ended with a Welcome Reception generously hosted by U.S. Ambassador Kathleen Ann Kavalec and Mr. Mark Taplin at their residence.
Day 3: Practical Sessions and Language Learning
The final day of orientation covered logistical matters related to the Fulbright program, including financial details, residence permits, work-related travel, and plans for future group meetings. A 2-hour beginner Romanian language lesson, led by Dr. Mona Moldoveanu Pologea of ROLANG School, followed.
The orientation concluded with a visit to the Cotroceni Museum, offering the new grantees a glimpse into Romania’s rich cultural heritage.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the speakers and participants for their valuable contributions. The orientation fostered connections between the American grantees and the Commission’s staff, setting the stage for a successful Fulbright experience.
We wish all our grantees a successful academic year and look forward to staying in touch throughout their Fulbright journey.
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More photos are available on the Commission’s Facebook page.
List of 2024-2025 U.S. Fulbrighters