How a Jordanian Judge Secured the Fully Funded Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship to Study Law and Leadership at American University, USA

My name is Aktham A. Arabeyat, a judge from Jordan. Holding a Ph.D. in private law, I am a Hubert H. Humphrey Fellow alumnus, pursuing advanced leadership and professional development in the field of  Law I hold a strong passion for adjudicating, I chose to pursue further education and professional training through the Humphrey Fellowship because it offered a unique opportunity to enhance my skills, expand my global network, and contribute meaningfully to my community upon my return to Jordan.

Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Details

I was honored to receive the prestigious Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship, a program administered by the U.S. Department of State in partnership with the Institute of International Education (IIE). This non-degree program supports mid-career professionals by providing one year of professional enrichment and academic coursework in the United States. The fellowship covers tuition, living expenses, travel, professional development activities, and insurance. I was fortunate to be placed at American University, one of the leading institutions in the U.S. for my area of study.

Your certificate, once you complete the requirement, is signed by the president of the U.S and the Secretary of department of State, that’s what makes it a prestigious scholarship.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the American University?

To prepare for my application, I spent significant time researching suitable fellowship programs that aligned with my career goals. I visited official websites, contacted alumni for insights, and attended webinars and information sessions. I made sure to understand the mission, values, and expectations of each institution and program, tailoring my personal statement and CV accordingly. That took me nearly 3 months of time.

While the Humphrey Fellowship does not require GRE, GMAT, or SAT scores, I did prepare thoroughly for the required English proficiency tests. I took the TOEFL exam and prepared by enrolling in intensive English courses, practicing mock tests, and focusing on academic writing and listening skills. I also used free online resources and TOEFL prep books to enhance my performance.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship?

Preparation for the Humphrey Fellowship was rigorous. I crafted a strong personal statement highlighting my leadership achievements, community service, and vision for the future. I secured strong letters of recommendation from supervisors and mentors who could attest to my professional competence and leadership potential. I also practiced thoroughly for the interview, anticipating questions about my goals, motivations, and how I plan to use the fellowship experience.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out because of my clear commitment to public service, my demonstrated leadership in my field, and my vision for how the fellowship would enable me to contribute to the development of my country. I also highlighted specific projects and initiatives I had led, showing real-world impact rather than just theoretical knowledge.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

If I were to go through the process again, I would have started even earlier, allowing more time to refine my essays and gather feedback from mentors and previous fellows. Additionally, I would have pursued more leadership training and international collaborations to further strengthen my profile.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

For those looking to apply for the Humphrey Fellowship or similar scholarships, my advice is:

• Be specific regarding your goals
• Start early and research thoroughly.
• Be authentic in your essays — tell your story with passion and clarity.
• Showcase leadership, community impact, and a clear future vision.
• Seek strong letters of recommendation from people who know you well.
• Prepare for the interview by practicing common questions and connecting your experience with the fellowship’s goals.
• Most importantly, believe in your potential to make a difference.