From Dream to Reality: My Fulbright Journey to Romania
The Fulbright program has long been synonymous with opportunity, cultural exchange, and academic discovery. It became a bridge between ambition and reality, connecting the dots of my personal and professional journey. This past year has been a whirlwind of emotions and experiences, marked by challenges, triumphs, and moments of profound growth. From the arduous task of writing my proposal in the summer of 2023 to my first four months as a Fulbright grantee in Romania, this journey has been nothing short of transformative.
The Hardship: Writing the Proposal in Summer 2023
Writing my Fulbright proposal was one of the most challenging tasks ever. The summer of 2023 was filled with late nights and endless drafts, all in pursuit of crafting an academically rigorous vision that was also personally meaningful. I wanted to tell the story of the Danube Delta, a region shaped by its people, environment, and vulnerabilities, and frame it through the lens of human security.
The process was as exhausting as it was rewarding. Some nights, I doubted whether I could convey the urgency and importance of my research. I wrestled with words, rearranged paragraphs, and repeatedly refined my focus. But with each revision, I felt closer to the heart of what I wanted to achieve. By the end of that summer, I submitted my proposal, uncertain of the outcome but proud of the effort.
The Joy: Receiving the Selection Email on February 29
On February 29, 2024, my mom’s birthday, I received the email that changed everything. I had been selected as a Fulbright grantee to Romania. The timing could not have been more perfect. The joy of calling my mom to share the news on her special day is a moment I will never forget. Her pride and happiness amplified my own. That email was not just an affirmation of my hard work; it was an invitation to embark on a journey of discovery. It was a reminder that the late nights, the self-doubt, and the persistence had all been worth it.
The Preparation: Moving from California to Romania
The months leading up to my departure were a flurry of activity. Preparing to move across the world was no small feat. Packing my life into suitcases, organizing logistics, and saying goodbye to California’s familiar landscapes was bittersweet. Traveling with my two cats, Pitzi and Chip, added another layer of complexity, as I had to make two separate trips due to airline restrictions. But every challenge felt like a step closer to something extraordinary. By September, I had arrived in Romania, ready to begin this new chapter. The move involved physical relocation and an emotional and mental shift. It prepared me to embrace the unexpected and approach my research and life in Romania with an open mind.
The First Four Months: Life as a Fulbright Grantee in Romania
Orientation and First Impressions
My Fulbright journey began with an orientation in Bucharest, where I met a cohort of inspiring individuals with unique stories. Together, we explored landmarks like Cotroceni Palace and Romania’s capital. At the Romanian-U.S. Fulbright Commission, I befriended a stray cat that visited daily, affectionately named “Fulbright Cat.” These early days were filled with excitement and curiosity. Romania welcomed me with its vibrant culture, warm hospitality, and a deep sense of history.
Fieldwork in the Danube Delta
My research took me to Sulina, Letea, and Sfântu Gheorghe, villages in the heart of the Danube Delta. The work was not without its challenges. In Sulina, locals were initially hesitant to discuss my research. But over time, I adapted, shifting my focus from food security to the broader concept of human security. By connecting with residents and listening to their stories, I began understanding the Delta’s complexities in a new light. The landscapes of the Delta were breathtaking: endless waterways, migrating pelicans, and villages untouched by time. These experiences reminded me why this research matters, not just academically but for the people whose lives are interwoven with this environment.
Cultural and Personal Highlights
Beyond research, Romania has been a treasure trove of cultural and personal experiences. I celebrated Dobrogea Day, tasted global cuisines at community events, and wandered through the serene paths of Cismigiu Park. Every moment has deepened my appreciation for this country and its people.
Professional Growth
As a Fulbright grantee, I’ve had the opportunity to expand my professional network and deepen my understanding of global security. Whether presenting at conferences or collaborating with local academics, I’ve grown both as a researcher and a person.
Reflection and Looking Ahead
As I reflect on the past four months, I am struck by the depth of this experience. Fulbright has been an academic endeavor and a journey of personal and cultural discovery. It has challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, adapt and grow, and view the world through collaboration and understanding.
Looking ahead, I am excited about the work: the interviews, the fieldwork, and the connections yet to be made. I am deeply grateful for the Fulbright Commission, the communities I have engaged with, and the journey that has brought me here.
Fulbright is more than an award or a program. It is a bridge between people, cultures, and ideas. And I am honored to be walking across it.