After arriving in the United States two months ago, the new international students are now well settled on campus. There are several different aspects of studying abroad, and with the help of some students, we can get further insight.
Travel is a passion for many people, and because of the lockdown, the interest in venturing out into the world has skyrocketed.
One of the numerous ways to travel is to study abroad, which consists of studying in another country for a certain period of time. It is a concept that has become extremely popular worldwide.
Student Experience
An international student from Pakistan, Rabika Tahir, has been wanting to study abroad for a while, and she explains to us why it was important for her to do it.
“It’s important for me in both career aspects and personal. I wanted to meet people of different ethnic origins and also experience cultural diversity and understand new perspectives. In addition, I wanted to build up my communication skills, have fun, make friends and take a break from my life back home”.
Rabika Tahir
Exchange student from PakistanShe also commented, “Study abroad is a great opportunity to meet new people who, with time, become your friends, and open your mind by discovering new cultures.”
“I feel like in Spain we do not have those concepts of social distance that Americans have, so people tend to be more charming and warm at the beginning”
Mario Alfageme Santolino
Exchange student from SpainComing from around the globe, naturally international students have their habits and ways of life in their respective countries. Going abroad allows them to get out of their comfort zone by talking with new people and trying new things.
Yuka Shinomiya, an exchange student from Japan, has had several opportunities to make new friends and enjoy an intercultural experience, and for the moment the United States seems to have answered well to her expectations.
“I am a little shy, but I like chatting and talking with my friends, so even if English is difficult, I want to communicate with various people in English. This is my first time visiting the US, I have many heart-warming memories. I have the support of many people. America is a country I would like to visit again in my life.”
Yuka Shinomiya
Exchange student from Japan
When you study abroad, you belong to a community, a community of friends from everywhere that you will never forget!
Words from the International Student Advisor
Michael Foki, the international student advisor at SUNY Cortland, explains his own experience abroad.
“From 2009-2014, I live and worked abroad near Tokyo (Japan) as part of the JET Program (Japan Exchange Teaching Program). This program was established by the Japanese government in 1987 as a grass roots effort to promote internationalization by hiring college educated professionals in different positions. My position during the program was ALT (Assistant Language Teachers) and I had many opportunities to make a difference both locally in my community and at the national level.”
Just like for Mario, Rabika or Yuka, this experience brought him a lot of things.
“I was lucky enough to meet my wife who is Japanese and I made lifelong friends from all over the world. People I would never have been exposed to or had the opportunity to meet. I learned a lot about a new culture including language, customs, etc. which I’ll cherish forever!”
Taking a Chance
For some people, it could be difficult to take the plunge and go abroad, and it’s understandable. We asked him what would he say to students who hesitate to study abroad to reassure them and motivate them to jump in.
“Don’t be worried about living abroad…. Be brave and take the plunge! The world is a huge place full of amazing experiences waiting to be had. You only live once and right now you have the most freedom you’ll ever have in your life to explore the world. Don’t miss out on this opportunity. If you are worried about finances there are many scholarships, grants, and ways to fund your studies abroad. “
“Please come to the International Programs Office, and speak with a study abroad advisor who can answer any questions you might have or come to a study abroad info session held every Wednesday at 3pm in Room 220 Old Main.”
Michael Foki
International student advisor in SUNY CortlandThe International Programs Office is here for you, don’t hesitate to go meet them. They can also put you in contact with international students from the countries you are interested in. Go for it!