Fulbright Foreign Student Program (Master’s Degree) Spotlight: Ilir Hajraj
Ilir Hajraj is a 2025-2026 Fulbright Foreign Student Program grantee and is currently pursuing his Master of Laws (LL.M.) at the University of Michigan Law School in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with a focus on Technology Law. He reflects on the collaborative academic environment, the strong sense of community in Ann Arbor, and the skills he has gained along the way. His experience highlights both the intensity of law school life and the personal and academic growth shaped by finals season, supportive professors, and meaningful cultural moments beyond the classroom.
The Fulbright Foreign Student Program brings citizens of Kosovo to the United States to study for master’s degrees at U.S. universities. The program has brought some of the world’s finest minds to U.S. campuses and offers program participants insight into U.S. society and values. Many foreign Fulbright grantees are early-career professionals who will return to take leadership positions in their home countries, often working in the public sector, including in government or at universities.
This program is jointly funded by the U.S. Department of State and the Government of Kosovo.
1. Where are you studying, and what is your field of study? I am currently pursuing my Master of Laws (LL.M.) at the University of Michigan Law School in Ann Arbor, Michigan. My focus is on Technology Law.
2. What is one thing about your university or host city that has surprised you?
I was surprised by the warmth and strong sense of community in the Midwest. Despite the competitive nature of law school, my peers and professors in Ann Arbor are incredibly collaborative and supportive. This environment has made my transition to life in the U.S. much smoother, even though I am far away from home.
3. What does a typical week look like for you right now? At the moment, my week is defined by finals, so I am spending most of my time in the Law School’s beautiful library. Normally, however, living on campus keeps my daily routine fairly centralized. I attend classes, eat in the dining hall, and study without really needing to leave the law school buildings. Outside of academics, I really enjoy the fact that Ann Arbor is a football town. It is home to “The Big House,” the largest stadium in the U.S., and I often go there on weekends to watch the games.
4. What is one skill you didn’t expect to gain but did?
I believe the most important skill I have gained here is the ability to simplify complex concepts. In my home country, there was generally an idea that the more complex a lawyer sounds, the smarter they are. Here, I learned that the art of law is actually the opposite. A good lawyer is someone who can take complex issues and make them clear and easy to understand.
5. What has been the biggest culture shock for you in the U.S.?
The biggest culture shock has been the “mini-seminars” held at professors’ private homes. I found it fascinating to be in a professor’s living room while they hosted dinner for students. Since this is not a common practice in my home country, it was a unique experience to be treated not just as a student, but as a welcomed guest in their personal space.