When Uzbekistani scholars Nodirbek Ismailov and Nafisa Komilova learned of the Faculty Enrichment Program funded by the U.S. Embassy in Uzbekistan, they saw an opportunity to travel abroad to the United States and learn the inner workings of higher education from the University of Arkansas community.

They've done that and more in their time at the University of Arkansas, where they spent the spring semester on campus. The experience offered professional development opportunities and immersed Ismailov and Komilova in American Southern hospitality.

"Overall, my visit to the University of Arkansas has been incredibly beneficial for my professional development as a future teacher in higher education," said Komilova, who works in the Department of Biophysics at the National University of Uzbekistan. "The support and resources provided by the International Students and Scholars team and the International Culture Team have equipped me with valuable skills, knowledge, and experiences that I can apply in my teaching practice and academic pursuits. I look forward to incorporating these learnings into my work and contributing to the advancement of education and cultural exchange between Uzbekistan and the United States."

The Faculty Enrichment Program is administered by the American Councils for International Education and supported by the Graduate School and International Education. The program offers university instructors from Uzbekistan the opportunity to enhance their pedagogical skills and professional disciplinary expertise through a four-month academic enrichment program in the U.S.

During their time here, Ismailov and Komilova observed classes in their respective disciplines, discussed their research with peers, and attended seminars by the Teaching and Faculty Support Center. Ismailov, an economics professor at Fergana Polytechnic Institute, sat in on six economic courses in the Sam M. Walton College of Business which deepened his understanding of the field.

"By leveraging the knowledge and insights gained from these courses, I have been able to develop critical analytical, decision-making, problem-solving, and leadership skills which are essential for my future success in both academic and professional pursuits," he said. "Additionally, my exposure to practical applications and networking opportunities, particularly through courses like the Startup Toolkit and Entrepreneurship and New Venture Development, equipped me with valuable hands-on experience and industry connections that can further enhance my career development."

The two also connected with the campus and Northwest Arkansas community through programming from the Office of International Students and Scholars, which hosted events and connected the faculty members with local families for cultural exchange.

"They created a welcoming environment and organized engaging cultural events that allowed me to immerse myself in American culture," Komilova said. "Being matched with American families and with local residents, I was able to experience American culture and food and present to others about my home country."

The experience has provided "unforgettable" opportunities for the two scholars.  

"Studying at the University of Arkansas has broadened my understanding of different cultures, traditions, and ways of life," Ismailov said. "By immersing myself in a new environment, I've learned to appreciate diversity and embrace different perspectives. It has also fostered my independence and self-reliance. Being away from familiar surroundings and support networks has challenged me to adapt to new situations and overcome obstacles on my own, ultimately leading to personal growth and development."

"My time in the United States has been truly remarkable," Ismailov said. "From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed and embraced by the warmth and kindness of the people around me. The hospitality and politeness of everyone I encountered made me feel at home, and I never once felt like a stranger. Overall, my experience in the United States has been filled with adventure, learning, and unforgettable moments that I will cherish for a lifetime."

For more information about the Faculty Enrichment Program, visit the FEP program website.