UND Biology department introduced seminar speaker Tatjana Ruskovska, Fulbright Scholar and Associate Professor of Clinical Chemistry and Biochemistry at Goce Delcev University in Macedonia on Friday, where students received an opportunity to meet with and hear her speak about what it’s like to “do” science in the Republic of Macedonia.

“Her research sounds interesting, and her visit is a good opportunity for our students to see how (professors) in foreign countries ‘do’ science,” Health Sciences Advisor Kim Ruit said.

Ruskovska began her presentation by painting a picture of her native country of Macedonia. She gave background on the country’s history, their culture, geography and government. She then spoke about Goce Delcev University, where she teaches.

The university was established in 2007 and named after Goce Delcev, an important revolutionary figure in Macedonia.

The university’s motto is “Recognize Your Future,” and since its beginnings in 2007, over 16,000 students have “recognized their future” by graduating from Goce Delcev University.

The Fulbright Program

Ruskovska spoke on “Fulbright International Education Exchange: Fostering Science and Mutual Understanding between Nations and Cultures.”

The Fulbright Scholar Program was established in 1946, under legislation introduced by Senator J. William Fulbright of Arkansas.

The Fulbright Program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

The Fulbright Program awards approximately 8,000 grants annually. Roughly 1,600 U.S. students, 4,000 foreign students, 1,200 U.S. scholars and 900 visiting scholars receive awards, in addition to several hundred teachers and professionals.

Approximately 310,000 “Fulbrighters” have participated in the Program since its inception in 1946. As part of the Fulbright Scholar Program, Dr. Ruskovska is spending this academic year at the University of Minnesota.

Research

Ruskovska explained her research during the second half of her presentation. Her project focuses on haemodialysis and diabetes mellitus and the role of white adipose tissue in obesity induced insulin resistance.

“Her research seemed interesting but was above my head,” junior Steven Demmerly said. “I like attending seminars featuring guest speakers.”

After Ruskovska finished speaking, students and faculty members were able to ask questions and attend a small gathering that gave them a chance to talk to Dr. Ruskovska and talk amongst each other.

“I think this lecture, and others like it, are a good way to promote thinking and discussion among students and faculty members,” sophomore Jennifer Cook said. “By attending, you’re learning about things that you may have never learned about in class. You get a chance to hear from somebody outside of UND, and the chance to talk with other students and faculty members about something that you have a shared interest in. I can’t wait to see what guest speaker we’ll have next.”

Katie Haines is a staff writer for The Dakota Student. She can be reached at [email protected].