Through Fulbright, I have had the opportunity to attend conferences and connect with other Fulbrighters doing similar work in different countries. In December, I traveled to Bulgaria, where I met and heard from about sixty Fulbrighters from across Europe and learned about their experiences in their host communities. Last weekend, I attended another conference in Kosovo, where I also had the chance to explore Prishtina and Prizren. The scholarship brings together many talented and accomplished individuals, and I feel very fortunate to have met and learned from such inspiring people.
I’ve truly appreciated the chance to explore Albania throughout my time here. I’ve visited many different cities, each with its own unique character and charm. So far, I’ve been to Shkoder, Korce, Vlore, Dhermi, Elbasan, Durres, Kruja and several others along the way. My next planned trips include Theth, Sarande, Berat and Gjirokaster, which I’m really looking forward to. If you ever have the chance to visit Albania, I highly recommend exploring as many cities as possible. There is so much beauty to discover everywhere you go.
This weekend, I traveled down to Vlore to visit the other Fulbright English Teaching Assistant, a city located along the Albanian coast. While there, we went on an ATV ride, took a boat tour and now we are planning to venture out to explore some of the neighboring cities as well.
I will always carry my time here with me, no matter where life takes me. The students have been truly incredible, so kind, so welcoming and so full of warmth. From the very beginning, they made me feel at home in a place that had always felt so unfamiliar.
Before applying to Fulbright, I was going through a very difficult time in my life.
