"Orientation Days" for the 2025/2026 American grantees
From September 24 to 26, Fulbright France organized the 2025/26 American Orientation Days for our new US grantees (Fulbright Students & Scholars, ETAs, Chateaubriand)!
Thursday, September 25 was the core day of the program, held at the French Diplomatic Archives in La Courneuve:
• Welcome remarks by:
- Audrene Eloit, Head of Department for Academic and Scientific Partnerships (Europe/Asia-Oceania/North America), French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs
- Lawrence Randolph, Minister Counselor of Public Affairs, U.S. Embassy in France
- Martine Roussel, Executive Director, Franco-American Commission Fulbright France
• Introductions from our 2025/26 American grantees
• Breakout sessions for Advanced Students, Doctoral Students, ETAs, and Research Scholars led by Fulbright alumni: thanks to Natalie Darst Xia, Maxwell Pirtle, Claire Aupérin, Haley Redhead, and Sami Makki
• Overview of the French Diplomatic Archives with Grégoire Eldin, Chief Heritage Curator
• Practical guidance for US grantees by Charlotte Goodwin & Julie Maifret, followed by a Communications overview with Camille Bissegger
• Practical information for Chateaubriand Fellows with Campus France by Aude Chanson, Dr. (Head of the Americas Service), Annick Badobrey & Madioula Diakhaby
• Session with the U.S. Embassy’s American Citizen Services team
• Conference on Franco-American diplomatic relations with Emmanuel Mayer, Deputy Director for North America, French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs
• Reception bringing together the grantees
Wednesday, September 24 (optional): Presentation by Fulbright alumna Marion Standefer, M.S.Ed, showcasing her films and work, followed by pastries and informal discussion at the Franco-American Commission
Friday, September 26 (ETAs only): Our new English Teaching Assistants participated in a dedicated workshop:
• A session on US Embassy’s work in the field of education with Jehan Jones, Cultural Counselor at the U.S. Embassy in France
• Alumni insights from former ETAs: thanks Zachary Harker & Elizabeth Rollison
• Education USA Advising Center volunteer opportunities with Celine Ouziel
A warm thank you to the Ministère de l'Europe et des Affaires étrangères, the Ministère chargé de l'Enseignement supérieur et de la Recherche, the US Embassy Paris/Consulate, Campus France, our partners, Fulbright alumni, and above all, our 2025/26 American grantees for their enthusiasm and engagement. Wishing you all a successful start to your year in France!
