Fulbright Foreign Student Program (Master’s Degree) Spotlight: Mjellma Kallaba
Mjellma Kallaba is a 2025–2026 Fulbright Foreign Student Program grantee currently pursuing her Master of Laws (LL.M.) in IP, IT, and Privacy Law at Penn State Dickinson Law in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. She reflects on the dynamic academic environment, the close-knit nature of the law school community, and the practical skills she has developed throughout her studies. Her experience highlights the rigor of LL.M. coursework, the importance of active classroom participation, and the supportive culture fostered by approachable faculty, collaborative learning, and meaningful 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 pursuing my LL.M. in IP, IT, and Privacy Law at Penn State Dickinson Law, the main law campus of Penn State, located in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
2. What is one thing about your university or host city that has surprised you?
One thing that surprised me about Carlisle is that it hosts one of the largest Corvette parades in the world, giving the city an unexpectedly lively and distinctive character.
3. What does a typical week look like for you right now?
During the semester, my week usually follows a fairly regular routine. I reserve a study room in the library with my study group, review materials, and prepare for seminars. Toward the end of the week, we take a break and spend time together off campus, often at casual gatherings.
Mjellma is pictured with H.E. Vjosa Osmani, President of the Republic of Kosovo, during President Osmani’s visit to the Carlisle Army War College.
4. What is one skill you didn’t expect to gain but did?
Taking notes more strategically and effectively. Lectures often go beyond the textbook, especially when discussing case law, so I now focus on capturing the main topics and overall structure of each class rather than trying to write everything down. This has helped me organize complex material more clearly and made studying more manageable.
5. What has been the biggest culture shock for you in the U.S.?
The biggest culture shock has been the classroom culture. Class participation makes up a specific percentage of the final grade and is taken very seriously, which pushes students to step outside their comfort zones. What also surprised me is how approachable professors are outside the classroom—they actively participate in student organization activities and events, and often invite students to celebrate different holidays or take part in social gatherings. Additionally, the school fosters a supportive atmosphere by regularly providing snacks, coffee, tea, and food once or twice a week, especially during midterms and finals.