This year, 44 graduate students from 20 countries attended the Fulbright Pre-Academic Program at Syracuse University’s English Language Institute.
Before matriculating into their degree programs at institutions across the United States, the Fulbright students gathered in Syracuse for four weeks to participate in a variety of workshops, field trips, and textual and oral communication courses. During the pre-academic program, the students discovered the power of community as they connected with the diverse international network.
“We have a great group of Fulbrighters. No matter where we come from, we are making friends with each other,” says Viengnakhone Moonivong, a Fulbright master’s student from Laos.
![](https://eli.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Poster080924_05-770x513.jpg)
With research stemming from different cultural backgrounds and interests, the pre-academic program offered a platter of opportunities to connect with one another, reminding the cohort that they all share a similar goal.
![](https://eli.syr.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Poster080924_07-770x513.jpg)
“We will be friends for the rest of our lives because we share a dream, which is to have a better world,” says Oscar Fernandez, Fulbright master’s student from Honduras. “It’s very easy to connect with people who have such beautiful energy.”
At the end of the four weeks, students left the pre-academic program feeling inspired by the camaraderie built among the cohort.
Enjoy the highlights from the 2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic Program below!
- The 2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic cohort takes a group photo in front of the College of Professional Studies.
- 2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic Program Workshop
- 2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic Program Poster Session
- The 2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic cohort tours Hendricks Chapel.
- The 2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic cohort takes a group photo at Green Lakes State Park.
- The 2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic cohort takes a group photo in front of Hendricks Chapel.
- 2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic Program Poster Session
- 2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic Program Poster Session
- 2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic Program Poster Session
- 2024 Fulbright Pre-Academic Program Poster Session
About the English Language Institute
The English Language Institute, a department within the College of Professional Studies, at Syracuse University is a pre-degree program that prepares international students to succeed in their undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Established in 1979, this immersive year-round program allows international students the opportunity to learn English and culture in the heart of New York state.