Fulbright Grantees in Europe Engage in EU/NATO Seminar

“This four-day experience provided profound insights into how multinational institutions like the EU and NATO address complex political challenges through collaborative efforts. I left the seminar with a renewed commitment to act as an ambassador for these critical international institutions.” –  U.S. Fulbright Student to Denmark, Hayden Paige.

The Fulbright Program continues to create invaluable opportunities for cultural exchange and global learning, and one of the most recent experiences for US Fulbright students in Europe was the EU/NATO Seminar. This four-day event offered participants a chance to engage with leaders from key European institutions while deepening their understanding of the EU and NATO’s pivotal role in addressing complex political challenges.

Carissa Tan and Hayden Paige, were selected to represent Fulbright Denmark at this four-day seminar. Carissa shared her enthusiasm for the event: “I had a great time meeting all of the various leaders in the European Court of Justice, NATO, US Mission to the EU, and more. These interactions provided me with a unique insight into the history and future of these vital organizations”.

The seminar kicked off with a reception at the US Embassy in Luxembourg, where participants connected with one another and set the tone for the engaging discussions that would follow. From there, the group visited the European Court of Justice, where they had the chance to observe a live case discussion on consumer protection policies in Italy. The experience helped deepen participants’ understanding of the legal complexities governing the EU, highlighting the delicate balance between law, culture, and governance.

A personal highlight for Hayden was having lunch with the President of the European Court of Justice, Koen Lenaerts, a Fulbright alumnus, who shared insights from his own Fulbright experience.

The group continued to Brussels, where they explored the European Commission and the European Parliament, learning firsthand about the legislative processes that shape policies across Europe, including the New Green Deal. At NATO headquarters, discussions focused on strategic initiatives, including the impacts of climate change on security and nuclear deterrence. These discussions offered participants a comprehensive understanding of the strategic planning that underpins NATO’s efforts to maintain global stability.

For both Carissa and Hayden, the seminar offered more than just an academic experience. It provided an opportunity for deep personal connections and professional inspiration. As Carissa reflected, “Having American citizens from Fulbright grants all over Europe allowed for wonderful conversations on international cooperation and transatlantic relations, and I had an amazing time hearing about each person’s experiences in their host countries.”

The interdisciplinary exchange at the seminar was one of the key takeaways for Hayden as well. “”Conversations with fellow Fulbright grantees—each with diverse academic backgrounds—were one of the highlights. I was particularly inspired by the diverse projects of my peers, from conservation efforts in Portuguese fishing communities to healthcare delivery for refugees in Greece. These interactions underscored the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to global challenges.”

The EU/NATO seminar exemplifies the Fulbright Program’s mission to foster mutual understanding and collaboration across borders. By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, the program continues to empower individuals to make a lasting impact on global issues. This seminar, among many others, provides Fulbright grantees the chance to deepen their knowledge, expand their networks, and become ambassadors for international cooperation.