An Inside Look on the Fulbright Foreign Student (Master’s Degree) Program with Arlind Fazliu
Applying and preparing for an opportunity like a Fulbright Scholarship can be a nerve-wracking experience. In order to ease your mind and provide you with an insider’s look into the Fulbright experience we decided to catch up with our Fulbright alumni and on-program scholars. We asked them to reflect on their Fulbright experience and answer our insightful questions.
The 2023/24 online application for the Fulbright Foreign Student Program (Master's Degree) is now open and will be available until May 31, 2022. The Fulbright Foreign Student Program brings citizens of other countries to the United States to study for Master’s degrees at U.S. universities. To learn more: U.S. Embassy Prishtina
We are starting off our series of questions with our Fulbright Foreign (Master’s Degree) Student, Arlind Fazliu currently studying Second Language Acquisition at the University of Maryland, College Park.
What is your educational and professional background?
I have studied English Language and Literature at the University of Prishtina and in the U.S. I am studying Second Language Acquisition at the University of Maryland, College Park.
Why did you choose to apply for Fulbright Program?
I applied for Fulbright because of its long and established history as the most prestigious scholarship in the world. Some of the brightest minds in contemporary science and art are Fulbright alumni and I wanted to be a part of their group.
Tell us about your experience as a Fulbrighter in the U.S.?
As per my experience as a Fulbrighter, I could simply say that I am living the best days of my life. I am doing a lot of research in my field of study, meeting extremely bright and interesting people from all over the world, and establishing professional connections with American professors and academics.
What is the most valuable component you are gaining from the program?
The most valuable component that I am gaining from the program is the ability to experience a completely different approach to teaching (I am lucky to have very bright and professional professors).
How do you plan to implement the knowledge gained as a part of the program at your home institution?
Upon my return, I hope to secure a place in a higher educational institution and teach English implementing the newest teaching methodology.
How was the application process for you and what tips do you have for the prospective candidates?
The application process was indeed daunting but simultaneously exciting. I would tell students who are thinking of applying for Fulbright to dream big, be authentic, have patience throughout the application process, and have confidence in their abilities.
What is the biggest culture shock you are experiencing in the U.S?
The biggest culture shock I am experiencing in the U.S.: life is fast-paced.
What is your favorite place you have visited while participating in the Fulbright program?
My favorite places I have been to thus far are: The Albanian Orthodox Church in Boston, established by Fan Noli; The Museum of Modern Art in New York City (where I have seen Van Gogh's "Starry Night"); The Library of Congress in Washington D.C; and Edgar Allan Poe's House-Museum in Baltimore, Maryland.
What is your favorite American dish/food?
My favorite American dish is probably the New York-style Pizza (extra cheese).