Wilfrid Ndzaba
Fulbright Student, Republic of Congo
Field: Educational Administration
Host Institutions: Ohio University, Athens, Ohio and College of Saint Rose, Albany, New York
Dates of Grant: 2006-2007

Excellent, empowering, and supporting are words which epitomize the Fulbright Program from which I have been granted a stipend to study first in Athens, at Ohio University, to tackle the pre-academic program, and then at The College of Saint Rose in Albany, New York where I am currently engaged in a Master's Program in Educational Leadership and Administration.

I have to make it clear at the outset that without this program, I would not be able to afford my education (tuition, fees, maintenance, and living expenses in the United States). The reasons why, I believe, that this program (initiated by Senator William J. Fulbright) has to be extolled throughout the world is that it brings thousands of students from around the world regardless of their status, color, ethnicity, and origins to study in an amazing place where there are literate people who are culturally kind, compassionate, and supportive. For instance, in Athens where I arrived first, I came across nice American people who made my life there easier; no worry for a ride at anytime and wherever I wanted to go in this country. Also, at school, we were energized by outstanding instructors who taught us in a very democratic way that I have never experienced in my own country or city, Brazzaville in the Republic of Congo; teachers often rewarded high-performing students with praise.  For example, I have been awarded a book after receiving a perfect score in study skills.

In similar way, American students at Ohio University appear open, friendly, and smiling to the international students. It is an educational setting that I will recommend for future Fulbright students and scholars to attend. As far as the accommodations are concerned, I was living in one luxurious place called Courtyard Apartments where I was sharing an apartment of four bedrooms, fully-furnished, with two American students and one British student, a wellness and sports center, and swimming-pool -- all included. It was an apartment of delight, fun, and learning. We were learning from each other in terms of cultural backgrounds, differences and similarities, and food.  I loved Ohio University, where I made friends for life who have helped me improve my English speaking and listening skills.

However, at the completion of my certificate at Ohio University, this wonderful program gave me an opportunity to discover another university called The College of Saint Rose in Albany, New York. My stay in Albany is full of amazing opportunities. First, I am involved in one of the clubs at The College of Saint Rose which led me to discover Saratoga where I visited the house in which the General Schuyler hosted one guest, President Jefferson. Also, my positive experience extends to one of the greatest presentations I have been proffered to give by The Office of Multicultural Affairs where my flyer was put everywhere on the walls, online, and throughout the college. I was made a star! And this experience allowed me to meet a large number of professors, faculty, administrators, and students that I have never met before. 

To wrap it up, the Fulbright Program stands for a metaphor of “father who cares not only his own children but also those of his neighbors.” Can you realize, in addition to friendships, relationships, and future opportunities for his own offspring, how his neighbors’ children will be greatly indebted to him?

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