Abstract

The first week of the Fulbright program at Virginia Tech marked the beginning of an exciting academic adventure. The journey commenced with our arrival in Frankfurt, Germany, followed by our gradual immersion into the world of academia. Throughout this week, we embarked on a profound exploration of entrepreneurship, engaging in inspiring conversations. Our campus tour guided by peer mentors showcased iconic university landmarks, including the Torgersen Bridge, the war memorial, and the Drillfield. We also ventured into the world of business and innovation, learning about Virginia Tech’s collaborations with local startups and the intriguing applications of hydrogen in the shipping industry. The week concluded on a communal note, fostering connections among scholars through collaborative events such as Community Friday and Globberfest, providing a strong foundation for the enlightening journey ahead.

Weekend #1

Day 0 – Thursday - 08/24/23 – Arrival at Frankfurt (Main)

Saying goodbye to the familiar streets of Hanover was bittersweet. We were leaving behind the comforts of home for an exciting adventure in Frankfurt, where a Fulbright scholarship awaited. As we arrived in Frankfurt, the city buzzed with anticipation. Our first stop was the hotel, where we checked in and met our roommates. What seemed like random roommate assignments turned into a delightful surprise when we realized that we shared the same mentor—a sign that our journey was destined for connection and camaraderie.

The hotel lobby quickly became a hub of introductions, where we met fellow Fulbright scholars. Dinner beckoned, and we expanded our circle by inviting others who weren’t staying at our hotel to join us. With drinks in hand, we strolled along the serene banks of the Rhine, our conversations spanning from personal stories to our expectations for the exciting weeks ahead. As the night fell, we headed to our rooms, eagerly anticipating what the next day would bring.

Day 1 – Friday - 08/25/23 – Departure FRA -> IAD

Day one of our Fulbright adventure brought us to Frankfurt Airport, where we met the rest of our group. However, a delay tested our patience as our flight was pushed back by two hours. Despite this hiccup, our excitement remained undiminished. Finally, we took to the skies, bound for our destination: Washington D.C. After landing, we braved the rain as we navigated the metro to downtown, where our check-in awaited us. Dinner brought us together, and some of us even ventured to see the iconic White House in the evening, a symbol of the journey we had just embarked upon.

Day 2 – Saturday - 08/26/23 – Washington D.C

A new day in Washington D.C. began with breakfast in the cozy confines of our hotel lounge. Here, we gathered to introduce ourselves and share stories, fostering a sense of unity among our diverse group. A walking tour allowed us to explore the city, taking in poignant landmarks like the Black Lives Matter Plaza, the White House, and the Capitol. A lunch break in the bustling Chinatown district provided a chance to savor the local flavors. In the afternoon, we delved into American history at the Smithsonian National Museum and the National Gallery. The day culminated with a delightful dinner together at Founding Farmers & Distillers, solidifying the bonds we were forming.

Day 3 – Sunday - 08/27/23 – Off to Blacksburg

The morning sun greeted us as we enjoyed breakfast in the hotel lounge, energizing us for the day ahead. We gathered for a reflective conversation, sharing our thoughts and aspirations. Then, it was time to embark on the next leg of our journey, a bus ride to the picturesque Virginia Tech campus in Blacksburg, VA. The bus journey was anything but ordinary, filled with music and games that brought laughter and camaraderie. Upon arrival at The Inn at Virginia Tech and Skelton Conference Center, we checked in, excited for the days to come. The evening was a memorable one, marked by the International Student Reception at Hahn Garden Pavilion, where we had our first encounter with our mentors—a group of individuals who would guide and inspire us on this incredible Fulbright adventure.

Week #1: Immersed in Entrepreneurial Learning

Day 4 – Monday - 08/28/23 – First day of class

As the week progressed, our Fulbright adventure delved into the realm of academia. Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Turners, fueling us for the academic journey ahead. The Apex Center for Entrepreneurs hosted our Academic Program Orientation, where we were introduced to the exciting world of entrepreneurship. Our first class, “Foundations of Entrepreneurship,” kicked off with a deep dive into the essence of entrepreneurship itself. We pondered the question: What is Entrepreneurship? The discussions were invigorating and set the tone for the days to come.

Lunch provided a moment of respite on campus before we embarked on a campus tour led by our peer mentors. From the iconic Torgersen Bridge to the memorial court and the vibrant Drillfield, our mentors guided us through the heart of Virginia Tech. We also explored the Engineering Department, gaining insights into the university’s academic landscape. The day concluded with a satisfying dinner, as we continued to build connections with our fellow Fulbright scholars.

Extra-Knowledge

The upper level of the War Memorial showcases Memorial Court, adorned with eight finely sculpted Indiana limestone pylons. These pylons represent an array of virtues, positioned from left to right: Brotherhood, Honor, Leadership, Sacrifice, Service, Loyalty, Duty, and “Ut Prosim”, embodying the university’s motto, “That I May Serve.”

Engraved onto these pylons are the names of alumni who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the military. Henry Kries was the designer behind the four left pylons, while Charles Rudy is attributed to the design of the right pylons. At the center of Memorial Court stands a cenotaph, bearing the names of seven esteemed alumni who were recipients of the Medal of Honor. Source: https://www.vt.edu/about/locations/buildings/war-memorial-chapel.html, 20.09.2023.

Day 5 – Tuesday - 08/29/23 – What role does hydrogen play here?

Our second day of academic exploration began with breakfast at Turners, quickly becoming a favorite spot for our morning meals. The Apex Center for Entrepreneurship was our destination once again, where our “Foundations of Entrepreneurship” course resumed. Today’s agenda was brimming with intrigue as we delved into the Pamplin College of Business Entrepreneurship Seminar 1 at the Corporate Research Center (CRC). Here, we explored the dynamic interplay between Virginia Tech and local startups, with a fascinating case study on the role of hydrogen in the shipping industry.

Dinner marked the end of our academic day, allowing us to reflect on the wealth of knowledge we had gained.

Day 6 – Wednesday - 08/30/23 – American Sports

Midweek brought with it another day of academic engagement. After breakfast at Turners, we returned to the Apex Center for Entrepreneurship for our “Foundations of Entrepreneurship” class. A lunch break provided a brief respite, and then we embarked on a unique adventure - a visit to the ESM Statics lecture with Prof. Jared Gragg, expanding our horizons beyond entrepreneurship.

In the afternoon, we explored the impressive VT Athletics Facilities, including the Basketball Hall and the monumental Lane Stadium, which could host over 65,000 spectators. The day concluded with an elegant dinner at the University Club within Lane Stadium, where we savored the blend of academia and sports that Virginia Tech had to offer.

Day 7 – Thursday - 08/31/23 – Bowling time

As our week continued, our routine remained steady. We started the day with breakfast at Turners and returned to the Apex Center for Entrepreneurship for our “Foundations of Entrepreneurship” course. After a lunch break, we took care of some practical matters, including laundry, ensuring that our Fulbright experience would be as comfortable as it was enriching.

In the evening, we headed to Breakzone in Squires Student Center for a lively game of bowling, a delightful way to unwind and bond with fellow scholars.

Day 8 - 09/01/23 – Friday – Globberfest and Pizza

The week drew to a close with another breakfast at Turners, followed by our “Foundations of Entrepreneurship” course at the Apex Center for Entrepreneurs. Fridays at Virginia Tech were special - it was Community Friday at the Apex Center, an event that brought us together over pizza, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

In the afternoon, we ventured to the Drillfield for Globberfest, an annual fair of student organizations. Here, we explored the vibrant campus culture, discovering the multitude of student-driven initiatives that enriched our Fulbright experience.

Conclusion

Week #1 was a blend of academic exploration, campus discovery, and bonding with our fellow Fulbright scholars, setting the stage for a fulfilling and transformative journey ahead.