Reflections on Returning Home: Insights from the Fulbright Reentry Workshop
Reflecting on the challenges awaiting my return to my home country is a rare luxury during my busy graduate student life. Thankfully, the Fulbright Reentry Workshop in Washington, DC, offered me the time and opportunity to delve into these challenges and equip myself for the transition ahead.
The journey to Washington, DC, was more than just a change of scenery, it was a chance to pause and contemplate the significance of returning home after two transformative years abroad. Living abroad had reshaped my understanding of ‘home’. Home is no longer just the place I came from, it’s the connections I’ve forged with new colleagues and the cities that had embraced me during my time away. This workshop affirmed that grappling with these complex emotions was a shared experience among exchange students. It provided a haven to voice our thoughts and learn from one another.
The friendships nurtured during the Reentry Workshop are truly unforgettable. Surrounded by kindred spirits from the MENA region, I found immense joy and inspiration in meeting exceptional individuals from diverse backgrounds. These connections offered both friendship and the promise of future collaborations, and I look forward to continued communication as we work together to benefit our home regions.
The workshop’s curriculum was rich and varied. We delved into essential job search techniques and software tools, discussed ways to stay engaged with Fulbright post-program, explored strategies to navigate reverse cultural shock, and learned how to successfully conclude our Fulbright Program. One standout experience was engaging in community service at a local garden, a fulfilling endeavor that allowed us to give back while bonding with fellow Fulbrighters.
As a Fulbright student, my passion for exploring new cultures and places knows no bounds. Outside of the workshop, my colleagues and I immersed ourselves in the sights and sounds of Washington, DC, from its iconic monuments to its world-class museums. And let’s not forget the culinary adventures, indulging in the rich flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine that felt like a taste of home away from home.
Looking back, this experience remains etched into my memory. I often find myself reminiscing about the workshop and the lasting impact it had on me. It not only prepared me for the challenges of reentry but also enriched my life with enduring friendships and a deeper appreciation for the transformative power of international exchange.
In the end, the Fulbright Reentry Workshop was more than just a seminar it was a platform for self-discovery, connection, and growth. It equipped us not only with practical skills but also with the resilience and perspective needed to navigate the complexities of returning to our roots. As I continue my journey, I carry with me the lessons learned and the friendships forged, grateful for the experience that has shaped my personal and professional trajectory.
Vanessa is a 2022 Fulbright Student from Lebanon. She studies Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Wisconsin, Madison.
