Curious About University in the United States?
“The one thing that I truly appreciate about the United States is that you can always say whatever you want. You don’t have to be afraid and as long as you are polite and you are not rude to people you always have the opportunity to speak out your mind.”
-- Andrew (Egypt), Middlebury College, Vermont
Andrew is one of the many international students interviewed and profiled on America’s Global College Forum, a unique radio show that examines the experiences of international students studying at colleges and universities throughout the United States.
There are more than 500,000 international students currently enrolled in U.S. colleges and universities, and every one of them has a unique story. “By telling these stories, VOA gives listeners a personal glimpse of how American schools work, from our international audience’s perspective,” says program host Marsha James. Program consultant Sherril Taylor created America’s Global College Forum, which first aired in September, 2004.
America’s Global College Forum is available for on-demand listening on the Internet at http://www.VOANews.com/english/AmericanLife/global_college_forum.cfm. The page also offers past interviews and valuable links to information on studying in the U.S., and the latest education news. See page 5 of the online Program Guide for program schedule information.
On America’s Global College Forum...
"It really is an experience to me because even (though) I thought I was independent in Japan my mom was doing my laundry and cook for me and my parents paid everything, but when I came to America I have to do everything especially since I am living in the dorms. So I have to do my laundry like everybody else does and I think it is great. It makes me stronger.”
– Waki (Japan), Stephens College, Kansas
“I wasn’t interested in just a research doctoral program – I wanted to be able to do some coursework, and looking at the different kind of initiatives that has been done in education and peace studies, the United States offered me the most variety of options that I could come across.”
– Karambu (Kenya), University of Denver, Colorado
“I find it amazing how in one day you can meet people from all over the world – from Chile, Peru, Ecuador, African countries (like) Nigeria, Ghana – it is just amazing how by interacting with those people you can get to know their country, you don't even have to travel to their country.”
– Zamira (Tajikistan), University of Notre Dame, Indiana
“Don’t worry too much about not succeeding, because if you just come with dedication, with heart, and an open mind, you will be fine. You can achieve great things here, especially if you come from a less economic developed country, [things] you probably wouldn't be able to achieve if you didn't come here.”
– Marcio (Brazil), University of California Berkley
