“Meet the Fellows” – Sophia and Maja’s Visit to Slovenia
Welcome to the very first episode of Meet the Fellows, a new vertical of the ASEF Podcast hosted by Martin Jurkovič, a 2024 ASEF Fellow from Slovenia. This series dives into the stories of ASEF Fellows – students who have experienced the ASEF Fellowship firsthand – and explores what the program means to them, both professionally and personally.
In this episode, Martin sits down with Sophia Jarc and Maja Košir, two 2024 ASEF Fellows from Cleveland, Ohio, who spent their summer in Slovenia participating in the Visit Slovenia program. The conversation covers a wide range of topics – from their Slovenian heritage and the culture shock of living in Europe, to the meaningful work they did during their internships and the friendships they formed along the way.
You’ll also hear helpful tips for future applicants, insights into the application and selection process, and reflections on what it’s like navigating life between the U.S. and Slovenia.
Whether you’re thinking of applying to ASEF, are already a fellow, or just curious about cross-cultural experiences and academic exchange, this episode is for you.
Listen now and get a glimpse into the ASEF Fellowship through the voices of those living it.
Topics Covered:
- What it’s like to live and work in Slovenia as an ASEF fellow
- Differences between U.S. and European work and cultural environments
- Reflections on reconnecting with Slovenian roots
- Behind-the-scenes stories of the ASEF summer internship experience
- Tips for applying to ASEF and making the most of your fellowship
- Building community, friendships, and lifelong memories through ASEF
About the Guests:
Sophia Jarc
Sophia is a second-year undergraduate student at Purdue University, majoring in Industrial Engineering and minoring in Management. Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, she has been immersed in Slovenian culture from a young age, influenced by her grandparents, Milena and Joseph Jarc.
She attended Saint Vitus Slovenian School and danced with Folklora Kres, and is still an active member of Slovenska Pristava, where she embraces her heritage with pride. Through her visit to Slovenia, Sophia aims to gain an international perspective on the engineering industry and apply her global insights to real-world problem solving. Alongside reconnecting with family and exploring the country, she’s excited to expand her knowledge, skill set, and cultural connection.
Maja Košir
Maja is a third-year undergraduate student at the University of Dayton, majoring in Communication Management with a minor in Biology. Also from Cleveland, Ohio, Maja has nurtured her Slovenian identity through Saint Vitus Church, Folklora Kres, and the Slovenska Pristava community, where she has made many lasting friendships and deepened her understanding of her heritage. Her grandparents, Pavel and Cilka, played a central role in connecting her with her roots.Maja hopes to pursue a career in medical sales or human resources within the healthcare field. Her ASEF experience in Slovenia is not only a professional development opportunity, but also a chance to strengthen personal ties, embrace cultural traditions, and build lasting connections with fellow ASEF students.