Having won the prestigious Fulbright grant, I embarked on the greatest learning experience of my life. Studying at one of the top institutions in the U.S. in the nationally renowned School of Education allowed me to interact with the distinguished experts in the field of FLE and linguistics, whose work, until then, I had only known from books. Unique perspectives of my talented peers contributed to the intellectually stimulating learning environment.
Being part of the well-recognized Fulbright Program made me feel respected in the academic setting and opened many doors in my later professional career.
The Fulbright Program, however, is so much more than an exciting academic journey or a professional gateway. It can be an invaluable lesson that broadens your personal horizons. A first-hand insight into different aspects of American life, the richness of U.S. culture and geographic diversity across its southern states have made a lifelong impression on me.
The multicultural environment of UT has enriched my understanding of different ways of thinking and acting. At the same time, all those experiences have made me more appreciative of my own heritage, as in the U.S. I enthusiastically served as an ambassador of Polish traditions and values. Needless to say, with the exchange of knowledge and ideas, some precious friendships were formed. I feel honored and privileged to be a part of the Fulbright community. I would strongly encourage Polish students and professionals to take advantage of the unparalleled opportunity offered by the Fulbright Program.
Justyna Kozyra-Bober graduated from the Institute of English Studies at the University of Warsaw. As a 2007-08 Fulbright Program grantee, she studied at the University of Texas at Austin’s College of Education. She currently works for the Polish-U.S. Fulbright Commission.
