When Drilon Neziri received an email about an opportunity to study in the United States, he decided to take a closer look.

At the time, Neziri was finishing his undergraduate degree in political science at the University of Tetovo in North Macedonia. The message introduced the Fulbright Foreign Student Program, a competitive scholarship that supports graduate study and research in the United States. For students in his community, however, Fulbright felt prestigious and distant.

His decision to read that email changed the course of his academic journey.

After an extensive application process, Neziri was awarded the scholarship and arrived at NC State in fall 2024 to pursue a master’s degree in international studies. Since then, he has remained deeply engaged in campus life, now serving as president of the Fulbright Student Association (FSA). “I saw this as a goal before I start my career,” Neziri said. “I’ve always had an interest in diplomacy and international relations.”

Neziri, who is from the North Macedonian city of Tetovo and is of Albanian heritage, said many students in his hometown were unfamiliar with Fulbright. Those who had heard of it often assumed they would be at a disadvantage in the selection process, as Tetovo is widely regarded as the center of the country’s minority Albanian ethnic population.

“In my university, I think most people ignored that email because they didn’t know what it was. But I tried, and here I am.”

More Than Academic Prestige

Fulbright operates in more than 160 countries and supports thousands of students each year. Neziri’s award, the Fulbright Foreign Student Program, enables graduate students, young professionals and artists from abroad to study and conduct research in the United States.

Fulbright’s reputation for competitiveness can discourage some prospective applicants; Neziri emphasizes that academic performance is not the only factor in the selection process.

“It’s not just about a flawless academic record. It’s about having a clear, specific vision that you want to achieve.”

For students unsure whether Fulbright is right for them, he points to curiosity and openness as key indicators. “As long as you have curiosity about a complex global issue, or you’re just curious about the things you’re studying, I think you’d make a good fit,” Neziri said. Reflecting on the program’s cultural exchange mission, he added, “…you have to be an ambassador for your own culture.”

Building Community at NC State

Moving abroad for the first time can be daunting, particularly at a large university. For Neziri, building community has been essential. 

To combat what can be an isolating experience for international students, he encourages involvement in student groups, sports teams and faith-based groups, in addition to connecting with peers from similar backgrounds. “Trying to be open and put yourself out there so you can create your own circle or community – I think that’s very important,” Neziri noted.

That philosophy shapes his leadership as president of NC State’s Fulbright Student Association. The organization supports incoming and current Fulbright scholars, promotes academic and professional development and raises awareness about the program on campus. “I think FSA provides that close-knit family or support that you need as an international student to have a community that you feel like you belong to,” he said.

The association currently includes approximately 40 students representing around 20 countries.

As Neziri nears the end of his Fulbright program, he describes the experience as “dynamic,” “transformative” and “bridge-building.”

Looking Ahead

Neziri’s long-term goal is a career in diplomacy. He believes his coursework, research and global network at NC State have positioned him well for that path.

“Being a Fulbright student here and networking and knowing people from all around the world … gives me those ties and those networks that can give me a jump start in my diplomatic career.”

As  NC State celebrates Fulbright Week, Neziri hopes more students will consider applying, whether as international students coming to the United States or as U.S. students seeking opportunities abroad.

“I would encourage people to apply and try to get a Fulbright scholarship because it’s life-changing,” he said. “I think it gives you a perspective that you can’t get in any other program.” For Neziri, Fulbright scholars do more than earn degrees; they help build a more culturally enriched campus.

“Fulbright scholars bring the world to NC State… they enrich the classroom with different perspectives and help the university think more globally.”

Fulbright Week is March 30 through April 3, 2026 at NC State. Students and alumni interested in applying to a Fulbright Program can complete the University Fellowships Office intake form to connect with an advisor. Additional questions about Fulbright opportunities can be directed to the university at fellowship-advising@ncsu.edu.