Why did you decide to study in the U.S.A.?

I always wanted to open my eyes to the world.

Why did you choose your university?

I like the small size of Georgia College. Students have more opportunities to interact with professors and students, so they get to know each other from their classes. The staff of the International Education Center know the situation of international students, and they are always willing to help.

I also like my school’s location. I like the warm weather in the southeast. It is a small community and there are plenty of ways to get involved. I teach Taiji classes, and I am a member of many student groups and organizations. People here are more traditional and hospitable and this is very important for me because I grew up in a more conservative part of China. As an international student, I feel that I am warmly welcomed here.

What do you like best?

As long as you want to improve yourself, you can always find opportunities to suit your interests. For example, I am Chair of National Association at International Business Club at GCSU, involved with local churches, and I gave presentations about China at local schools.

What do you miss most?

I miss the food in my hometown the most.

What was your biggest surprise?

I am most surprised by the diversity in the United States. This country is a place for everybody in the world. Education in the U.S.A. is also very open-minded. In classes, the professors encourage students to speak up when they have their own opinions. Also, a lot of the assignments are designed to inspire students.

...your biggest disappointment?

The biggest disappointment is the lack of public transportation. Most international students don’t have cars, so it is hard to get around the town and to different places. However, this gives us a chance to make friends with American students and take trips with them. The International Club also sponsors many trips throughout the year and there are university shuttles that help with transportation.

How have you handled:
...Language differences?

The Southern accents caused me some trouble when I first arrived. I talked with some of my friends and they helped me to recognize some of the strong accents, so I got used to them after a while.

...Finances?

I work on campus part-time.

How relevant is your U.S. education to your personal goals and to the needs of your country?

I am planning to be a part-time professor. China needs information in the fields of finance and economics. I can apply the knowledge that I learned in the U.S.A. to the economy in China.

What is your advice to other students?

I would suggest that students make their educational goals very clear before coming to study in the U.S.A. Students should do some research about U.S. education and culture so that when they get here they will be prepared. I would also suggest that the students learn the skills that they will need to live by themselves, such as cooking and doing laundry.

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