Fulbright Faculty Development Program Spotlight: Kaltrina Jusufi

Applying for a program such as Fulbright 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 alumni and on-program scholars. We asked them to reflect on their experience and answer our insightful questions.

We are continuing our series of questions with our Fulbright Faculty Development 2020 grantee, Kaltrina Jusufi who conducted her research at St. John's University in Environmental Chemistry.

The Fulbright Faculty Development Program model is designed for junior faculty, currently teaching in Kosovo. The goal of the program model is to introduce participants to best practices and theoretical approaches to curriculum development in the U.S. and provide them with concrete strategies on how to develop a curriculum for a course, including an overview of academic and research resources. The 2023/24 online application for the Fulbright Faculty Development Program is now open and will be available until October 17, 2022.

To learn more visit: U.S. Embassy Prishtina.

This is a joint program of the U.S. Department of State and the Government of Kosovo.

1. What is your educational and professional background?

I am I have a PhD in Chemistry and I am a Teaching Assistant at the University of Prishtina.

2. Why did you choose to apply for Fulbright Program?

I applied for the Fulbright program because it offers a wonderful opportunity for junior faculty like myself to develop their professional careers.

3. Tell us about your experience as a Fulbrighter in the U.S.?

My experience in the US was very positive. I felt very welcomed by my host professors and students at St. John's University.

4. How do you plan to implement the knowledge gained as a part of the program at your home institution?

I plan on applying my knowledge and experience in my classes with undergraduate and graduate students at the Department of Chemistry. I also intend to do some research work in collaboration with my colleagues at St. John's University in environmental chemistry. In the meantime, I am developing course syllabi which is a very useful skill for me to bring back to the University of Prishtina.

5. How was the application process for you and what tips do you have for prospective candidates?

I had a very pleasant experience with the application process for the Fulbright Faculty Development Program. During the process, I was required to think hard about my objectives and plan my time in the US. My tip for prospective candidates is to take your time to really think about what you would like to do and work in that direction. You will need to work hard during the process, but the results are very rewarding.

6. What is the biggest culture shock you are experiencing in the U.S?

I did not have any major culture shocks, but there are many things that are different from Kosovo which I appreciate. I had a lot of support from my host professors and friends, and they helped me adjust to academic life in the US.

7. What is your favorite place you have visited while participating in the Fulbright program?

I have had the opportunity to explore New York City and that has definitely been the highlight of my time here.

8. What is your favorite American dish/food?

My favorite American dish is chicken pot pie which I need to learn how to prepare when I go back to Kosovo.