Fulbright Foreign Student (Master’s Degree) Program Spotlight: Serije Lika

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 continuing our series of questions with our Fulbright Foreign (Master’s Degree) Student, Serije Lika currently studying Business Intelligence and Analytics at Stevens Institute of Technology.

1. What is your educational and professional background?  

   7+ years of working experience in IT, Business, and Education. My bachelor's degree is in Telecommunications, and now I'm doing my master's in Business Intelligence and Analytics.

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

   Exchange culture, professional growth, and creating international connections.

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

   The most transformational experience on a personal and professional level.

4. What is the most valuable component you are gaining from the program?   

   Embracing diversity in every aspect of life.

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

   Working with the U.S. Agency for International Development and Ministry of Innovation and Entrepreneurship to improve the business systems for potential growth and increase employment.

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

   The application process was smooth; the applicants should be prepared for TOEFL/GRE/GMAT before applying.

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

   I did not have any culture shock; I was slightly in depression in the first month since everything was closed because of the coronavirus and I did not have my support system nearby.

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

   We hiked Bright Angel and South Kaibab in one day (30km), located in Grand Canyon.

9. What is your favorite American dish/food?  

   Spicy Salmon Poke Bowl (wild sushi-grade salmon, brown rice, avocado, edamame, scallions, cabbage, chopped peanuts, wonton crips, spicy peanut sauce.