Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program Spotlight: Trim Berisha
Applying for a program such as Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship can be a nerve-wracking experience. To ease your mind and provide you with an insider’s look into the Humphrey experience, we decided to catch up with our alumni. We asked them to reflect on their experience and answer our insightful questions.
We are continuing our series of questions with our 2023-2024 Humphrey Fellow Trim Berisha, who was placed at the Maxwell School of Syracuse University.
The Hubert H. Humphrey Program competition for the 2025-2026 academic year is now open and will be available until July 31st, 2024.
To learn more visit: The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program - U.S. Embassy in Kosovo (usembassy.gov).
What is your educational and professional background?
I hold a Bachelor's and Master's degree from the Faculty of Economics at the University of Pristina "Hasan Prishtina." In 2018-2019, I participated in the "EU Scheme for Young Professionals in the Western Balkans," a program funded by the European Commission and implemented by the British Council. Through this scheme, I attended the "Management and Public Policy" program at Sciences PO in Paris, France, and the "Public Administration Reforms and the European Union" program at the College of Europe in Bruges, Belgium.
I am certified as an internal auditor and also serve as a trainer at IKAP. Recently, I completed the Knowledge Co-Creation Program "Capacity Building of Local Government for Development with Community Participation" provided by JICA, and in 2022, I participated in the IVLP program titled "Youth and Civic Engagement."
With over 10 years of professional experience in public administration, I most recently served as the Acting General Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government Administration before attending the Humphrey Program.
Why did you choose to apply for the Humphrey Program?
I applied for the Humphrey Program primarily because of its prestigious reputation, particularly in the field of leadership. Having worked extensively with the European Union, I sought to broaden my experience by gaining insights from the U.S. approach. By comparing and contrasting the methodologies and best practices of both regions, I aim to apply these insights to improve practices in Kosovo.
Tell us about your experience as a Humphrey fellow in the U.S.
The Humphrey Fellowship Program offers a comprehensive package for aspiring leaders and public servants. Living daily life in the U.S. provides a unique learning experience where each encounter offers new insights. The program includes academic opportunities at top U.S. universities, along with specialized training, workshops, seminars, and conferences. Knowledge sharing among fellows and meetings with managerial staff from various institutions are crucial components of the program. Additionally, the professional affiliation segment allows participants to understand the working culture in U.S. institutions, adopt best practices, and share their own experiences. Finally, the program offers the chance to travel across the U.S. and experience the “American Dream” firsthand.
What is the most valuable component you have gained from the program?
I had the privilege of studying at the Maxwell School of Syracuse University, the world's top institution for public administration and policy. This experience helped me build on my background in public administration and learn from leading experts. The insights and expertise I gained at Maxwell have provided me with new approaches to tackling public administration challenges in Kosovo.
How do you plan to implement the knowledge gained as a part of the program at your home institution?
Having just completed the program, I am eager to return home and share the knowledge I gained with my colleagues in public administration. My goal is to contribute to advancing public administration and policy design in Kosovo. By leading by example, I hope to inspire others and drive positive change within our institutions.
How was the application process for you, and what tips do you have for the prospective candidates?
The application process was easy and straightforward for me because I had a clear idea of what I wanted from this Program. I highly recommend the program to all emerging leaders who are looking to enhance their academic and professional experience. Knowing what you want to achieve and being passionate about growth will make the process much easier and more rewarding.
What is the biggest culture shock you experienced in the U.S.?
The perception of space in the US is vastly different, with everything being larger and more spread out than you can imagine. To fully enjoy and navigate this expansive country, having a car is essential. On the other hand, public transportation offers very limited options, making a car even more necessary for getting around.
What is your favorite place you have visited while participating in the Humphrey program?
My favorite place is the Syracuse University Campus, which offers everything a student needs. For sports enthusiasts, the gym and pool are ideal. Additionally, Washington, D.C., and New York City are must-see destinations. However, the highlight of my travels was visiting the Grand Canyon, which remains my favorite place.
What is your favorite American dish/food?
In America, you can find cuisines from all over the world, but my favorite meal is steak with asparagus and mashed potatoes, especially when enjoyed in Texas or Kansas.