At the end of February, a group of American Fulbrighters gathered in Gdańsk, a coastal city in northern Poland, for their mid-year meeting. The event provided an opportunity to reflect on their experiences, share insights, and plan for the remainder of their grant period.
Making an impact in teaching
For many Fulbright scholars in Poland, teaching is a central and rewarding part of their experience. Cherise, who teaches clinical psychology at SWPS University – a leading psychology institution in Poland – describes her students as “amazing, bright, and multicultural.” She enjoys incorporating real-world clinical cases into her lessons, watching as students become deeply engaged with complex psychological scenarios.
Sheryl, who teaches at the University of Warsaw, finds fulfillment in her students’ enthusiasm: “Three-quarters of the students from my first course wanted to enroll again, so I think that means it went well.”
This year’s cohort is also making strides in innovative course design. Lynn is developing a course at Maria Curie-Skłodowska University in Lublin that integrates English language learning with AI-driven lesson planning, giving students a broad perspective on how these technologies are applied across Poland and the EU. Meanwhile, Kelly is launching a creative writing program at the University of Warsaw and is deeply moved by her students’ enthusiasm.
Living and working in Poland often lead to personal growth and unexpected opportunities. Fulbrighters emphasize the importance of embracing new experiences: “Say yes to every opportunity you have here. You will meet amazing people and get involved in things you never even knew were possible.”
Making an impact in research
Beyond teaching, Fulbrighters in Poland are engaged in a wide range of research projects spanning science, culture, and history. Some focus on distinctly Polish topics, such as folk dances, post-war architectural ceramics, and maternity care experiences among Polish women. Others tackle pressing global issues, including the transfer of heavy metals and microplastics through the food chain, AI applications in leukemia treatment, and the impact of greenhouse gas emissions in wetlands and floodplains.
Engaging with local communities
Outside academia, Fulbrighters are actively involved in local communities. Cady, an English Teaching Assistant (ETA) in Leszno, volunteers at a local language school, where students are captivated by her presence: “They just kind of look at me in awe.”
Cherise also volunteers with a church group, helping Ukrainian teenagers improve their English skills. “I sit in amazement of these brave individuals,” she reflects.
Artistic collaborations are another avenue of community engagement. Stephen, a Fulbright U.S. Student Researcher at the University of Warsaw, is working with a local theater group composed of actors with Down syndrome. He also hopes to develop “a walking mosaic tour of Warsaw” designed for blind and low-vision individuals.
Appreciating Poland and its culture
Many Fulbrighters cherish the opportunity to immerse themselves in Polish culture. Taras, who teaches genetics, genomics, and bioinformatics, describes Kraków as an “absolutely magical city.” Meanwhile, Ryan, based in Gdańsk, jokingly laments, “It is freaking cold here,” but remains grateful for the experience.
Sofia, who is conducting research at the University of Łódź, values the openness and welcoming attitude she has encountered in Poland.
Cultural exchange also brings humorous moments. Cameron, an ETA from Texas, recalls a Thanksgiving potluck where Polish friends reacted to hush puppies with the same curiosity that Americans have toward jelly meat and pickled herring.
Lasting impressions
As they continue their journey, the American Fulbrighters in Poland are making meaningful contributions to research, education, and cultural exchange. Their work strengthens ties between the U.S. and Poland, leaving a lasting impact on both their host communities and their own personal and professional growth.
