Buna Ziua! Hello! My name is Samantha Bartell, but my friends call me Sammie. I am 23 years old and am from Montgomery County, Maryland, which is just outside of Washington D.C. Maryland has been my home for the past 23 years and I have loved every minute of it, from the sunflower fields, to hiking, exploring the monuments in Washington D.C., and going to Ocean City’s beach.
I studied at Salisbury University in Maryland, where I earned my Bachelor's degree in international studies and conflict resolution. Growing up, I always dreamed about becoming a teacher, but when I realized that I loved traveling just as much, I decided to try to do both. I studied how the education systems in different countries work, and I noticed that students in other countries don’t always have the same opportunities that students in the United States do. This made me want to bring equal and accessible education to as many people as I can.
When I was a senior in college, I applied to be a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant in Moldova. Moldova is a small country in Eastern Europe and not very many people in the United States can point to it on a map. It is sandwiched right in between Ukraine and Romania. Moldova is known for its rich culture, deep history, and robust agriculture (like sunflowers and apples). I am so excited to share all of my adventures and introduce you to life in Moldova. La Revedere! Goodbye!
Want to learn how you could be a Fulbright Scholar like me? The Fulbright Program is the United States government's flagship international exchange program. Fulbrighters foster mutual understanding between the United States and partner nations, share knowledge across communities, and improve lives around the world. Learn more by clicking here!