Program: Master's in Engineering Management and Leadership
Home Country: Albania
Universities: American University in Bulgaria
Languages: English, Albanian, Spanish, Bulgarian, Greek
Pronouns: He/Him
I am an Albanian Fulbright Fellow at Rice University, where I am pursuing the Master of Engineering Management and Leadership with a focus on computer and data science. Before coming to Rice, I studied Computer Science at the American University in Bulgaria and built my career as a product manager in the tech industry, leading software products in fintech, digital marketing, wellness, and AI.
My professional journey has centered on product discovery, collaboration with cross-functional teams, and building human-centric products that aim to solve and impact users positively. I have worked on products serving users around the world, from digital payments in Albania, to SaaS tools in Europe, to AI-powered platforms for US scale-ups. What excites me most about product management is the intersection of technology and human needs, using data, design, and engineering to create products that make life simpler and more connected.
Beyond work, I find meaning in building community and intentional movement. I enjoy running, dynamic weight training, and high-intensity cardio, and I like to wind down by reading or meditating. In Tirana, I trained as a rhythm cycling coach and led classes that blended fitness with motivation, helping riders push their limits while celebrating progress as a community.
I am always curious about rediscovering myself in new settings and environments, and that's exactly what I hope to do at Rice, deepen my technical expertise and explore new passions.
What I like about Rice/Houston
What I love most about Rice is the nature and ~4400 trees around campus. It feels wonderful to go outside after classes or a long study session and just walk among all the trees, when it's not too hot of course!
As for Houston, my favorite thing has to be the diversity and the delicious food. Moreover, I've been recently exploring more activities and have to say Ryde (cycling studio) is among my favorite places.
What I like about Fulbright
The other Fulbrighters. It has been such a wonderful experience meeting bright and like-minded people from all corners of the world. Connecting with them and this community has been the best thing about the program so far.
Fun fact about me
I like hugging trees!