German Fulbright Students Dive Into U.S. Culture and Leadership With UMD

The University of Maryland (UMD) recently welcomed 24 undergraduate students from across Germany for a month-long journey of discovery, dialogue, and leadership. As part of  Discover the USA, a summer institute sponsored by the German-American Fulbright Commission, participants immersed themselves in U.S. culture, leadership training, and community engagement—all while experiencing life on UMD’s vibrant College Park campus. The program was organized by Maryland Global’s Global Learning Initiatives team in the Office of International Affairs.

For one participant, Nadia, the experience was transformative from the start. “I think the experience was truly a special one because we had so many layers in which we learned about culture, about social processes, about the higher education system in the U.S.," she says. " It was a lot of fun to challenge your own perspectives, to expand your views regarding certain topics and learn so much in such a short amount of time."

As a top destination for international talent, UMD has long been a hub for cultural exchange and global learning. Hosting Discover the USA highlighted the university’s commitment to preparing the next generation of global leaders, while also bringing fresh perspectives and intellectual exchange that enriched the campus community.

“This immersive Fulbright program is a powerful affirmation of UMD's commitment to fearless ideas and global collaboration. This exchange enriched our visiting students' lives and fundamentally enhanced our own Maryland community, strengthening our role as a hub for international exchange and forging lasting connections that will continue to shape global learning, research and partnerships," says Associate Vice President for International Affairs Ross Lewin.

Through Discover the USA, students took part in a series of workshops, seminars and hands-on projects designed to strengthen their global competencies. The curriculum explored topics such as cross-cultural communication, ethical leadership, entrepreneurial thinking and strategies for community engagement. 

Each week centered on a core learning outcome: global cultural awareness, global readiness, global leadership, and community impact. “The professors were so great. We had great lectures," says Bercenia, a participant studying Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Leadership. "It was great to be in [this program] with very different people—we were working very interdisciplinary, which gave us a broad perspective on topics.”

“These opportunities allowed participants to connect their academic interests with real-world experiences,” says Raluca Nahorniac, director of Global Learning Initiatives. “By engaging in local communities and exploring the cultural landscape of the United States, students gained a deeper understanding of U.S. society that will guide them as future leaders and global citizens.”

Beyond the classroom, the cohort explored the U.S. Capitol, Smithsonian museums, the Washington Monument, and the historic cities of Philadelphia, Annapolis and Baltimore. On campus, students joined the Fall First Look Fair, experienced an American football game, volunteered at community events and engaged with UMD peers in intercultural workshops. The timing of their arrival aligned with the start of fall semester and made the experience especially immersive. "We were here to experience campus life," Nadia explains. "As we were arriving when the semester just began, it was so special to see all the student unions recruit new members and see how the campus comes to life."

The program concluded with final group presentations, where students showcased what they had learned by applying it to community development concepts relevant to their home contexts in Germany. Working in groups of six, the students designed innovative and realistic proposals to address pressing social issues—from combating loneliness among college students to expanding educational access for low-income families and integrating sports and educational development. The projects reflected the lessons, challenges and perspectives gained throughout their U.S. experience, with students identifying root causes of issues, considering key stakeholders, and exploring the resources needed to bring their concepts to life.

For Slim, who studies International Business Administration, inspiration for his final project struck during a UMD football game. “We were at this American Football Game and we were kind of amazed," he recalls. "We saw how people come here to be professional athletes but also obtain their degree. We wanted to develop a framework for something similar in Germany."

The Discover the USA summer institute deepened cultural understanding and built connections that extended beyond the classroom. For many students, the program was as much about personal growth as it was about academic learning. “What stands out most is the sense of community and belonging here. I hope to bring some of this spirit back to Germany by being proactive in student groups and initiatives,” shares Nadia.

Together, these experiences highlighted the value of international exchange and reaffirmed UMD’s role as a leader in global learning, competency and leadership.