Fulbright Faculty Development Program Spotlight: Bahtir Hyseni
Seeking admission to a prestigious program like Fulbright Faculty Development requires a lot of preparation. To help you better understand the program and what it offers, we bring an insider’s perspective on the Fulbright Journey.
We are continuing our series of questions with our Fulbright Faculty Development Program 2022-23 grantee, Bahtir Hyseni, a Fulbright Faculty Development scholar at the Ohio State University, Department of Mechanical Engineering.
The Fulbright Faculty Development Program competition for the 2025-2026 academic year is open and will be available until September 30, 2024.
To learn more, visit the Fulbright Faculty Development Program (usembassy.gov)
This is a joint program of the U.S. Department of State and the Government of Kosovo
What is your educational and professional background?
My name is Bahtir Hyseni. I completed my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Food Engineering and Technology at the University of Prishtina. In 2021, I earned a PhD in Biotechnology from a prestigious institution in Turkey. I have accumulated seven years of experience as a Teaching Assistant at the University of Mitrovica "Isa Boletini" and, since 2022, I have served as a Professor Assistant in the Faculty of Food Technology at the same university.
Why did you choose to apply for the Fulbright Program?
Applying for the Fulbright Faculty Development Program is a strategic step in advancing my academic and professional aspirations as a faculty member in Kosovo. This program presents a distinctive opportunity to immerse myself in the best practices and theoretical frameworks of curriculum development in the United States, which are essential for refining my pedagogical skills and curriculum design expertise.
Tell us about your experience as a Fulbrighter in the U.S.?
My tenure as a Fulbright Scholar in the United States was an extraordinary experience. The warm reception from the students and faculty at the host university made my integration into the academic and social culture seamless. The exposure to American academic life and culture was both enlightening and transformative.
What is the most valuable component you have gained from the program?
One of the most significant outcomes of the Fulbright Program was the professional network I established. My connections with colleagues during the program have been invaluable, leading to ongoing collaborations on research articles and the continued exchange of practical knowledge and experiences.
How do you plan to implement the knowledge gained from the program at your home institution?
Upon my return, I began integrating the curricula I developed during the program into the Master’s program in Food Engineering and Technology. Furthermore, I have incorporated numerous teaching methodologies acquired from the program into the courses I currently teach. The knowledge, experience, and syllabi developed during my Fulbright tenure have also been shared extensively with my colleagues at the university.
How was the application process for you, and what tips do you have for the prospective candidates?
The application process for the Fulbright Faculty Development Program was straightforward and well-structured. Careful attention to the guidelines is crucial, and the support staff are readily available to assist with any challenges that may arise during the application process.
What is the biggest culture shock you experienced in the U.S?
The hospitality extended by my American friends and colleagues greatly enriched my experience.
What is your favorite place you have visited while participating in the Fulbright program?
My wife and I had the opportunity to explore several places during the program, with New York being our favorite destination.
What is your favorite American dish/food?
On a lighter note, I particularly enjoyed trying local delicacies, with the chicken meatball with BBQ sauce standing out as a memorable culinary experience.