Dear Readers,
I am Meghana Reddy, a master’s student from the computer science department and an international student from India. I am going to share my master’s experience and offer advice to fellow international students who are new to the University of Central Missouri.
It was my dream to study overseas so that I could explore myself and understand who I am without my family beside me. Initially, I thought getting an admittance letter from the college and a clearing Visa interview would accomplish my goal, but in reality, this was just the beginning of my journey. Once you land in America to pursue your masters, your real journey begins.
I was excited to be admitted to UCM because it is a college that provides wide international exposure. It was interesting to meet new people by attending the welcome party and signing up for different clubs like the Muleskinner, rock climbing, and clay making. I suggest everyone visit events organized by the college to gain international exposure.
It was difficult to adjust to the weather changes, as I arrived in the spring semester while it was snowing. My first snowfall experience was magical, but it was still quite a task to go to college in such extreme weather conditions. I advise all international students who are coming in the spring to pack scarfs, hats, gloves, boots, thermals, and winter coats in your luggage.
I was excited to be admitted to UCM because it is a college that provides wide international exposure. It was interesting to meet new people by attending the welcome party and signing up for different clubs like the Muleskinner, rock climbing, and clay making. I suggest everyone visit events organized by the college to gain international exposure.
It was difficult to adjust to the weather changes, as I arrived in the spring semester while it was snowing. My first snowfall experience was magical, but it was still quite a task to go to college in such extreme weather conditions. I advise all international students who are coming in the spring to pack scarfs, hats, gloves, boots, thermals, and winter coats in your luggage.
As international students, we are learning many things at once – how to be independent, how to socialize and how to manage our finances. At the same time, we must complete academic assignments and part-time work. We can maintain balance between our academics, work and household chores by setting priorities, creating a schedule and asking our friends for help when needed. You will face new challenges every day, but eventually, you will learn all of the skills you need to survive.
In order to make friends, you should attend campus events, join student organizations and reach out to classmates. I personally believe that we need to step out of our comfort zone to make friends. By befriending different people from different backgrounds, you can learn a lot, as everyone has their own viewpoint of life. The most exciting part of making friends is that they are your family from now onwards.
Domestic students might not be aware of the challenges international students face. In order to help international students feel welcome at UCM, domestic students can connect with international students by attending multicultural events or joining global organizations on campus. Domestic students can also encourage international students by being open and willing to learn from their perspectives. A small effort can make a big difference.
Leaving home is not easy. We feel sad and miss our family, friends, food and old way of life. While we feel less sad with time, we never stop missing what we once had. However, pursuing a master’s degree from UCM has made me mentally strong and given me a path to enhance my skills. Let’s all manifest that we can overcome our struggles, improve our academics, land our dream jobs, and make our parents proud, for the future and towards the future.
