Jovia Bulyaba
Hometown: Mukono
Home Country: Uganda
Major: Information Systems and business Analysis
Language Spoken: Luganda, English, Rutooro and Swahili
Why A-State: I did extensive research and found A -state is a vibrant academic institution placing emphasis on the provision of high quality education. It also has flexible study options that lets students choose how and when to learn. The university also has a strong support system for international students that provides students with opportunities and great experiences which will have a great impact on my career path.
Why I Am Pursuing My Current Degree: I chose information system and business analysis as it's a diverse course with both the business and technology aspects. I am interested in developing knowledge of business operations, gaining the ability to think critically and solve problems in innovative ways as well as gaining facilitation skills in this field which I will adapt and transfer to my career.
Favorite things to do on Campus: A-State organizes many on campus events every week that involve games, global culture shows, in which I never miss. I also enjoy going to the Red Wolf Center to utilize the gym and yoga classes . I never thought that life at university could be this fun!
Why I Am an International Ambassador: Studying abroad is a big step for many international students and I know how it feels to leave your family and move to a new country. Having to face almost everything like new food, weather ,culture can be overwhelming. I feel the need to meet, help and interact with international students in order to help them to get accustomed to a new lifestyle. The university is a great place to meet new people and being an international ambassador, I get an opportunity to meet students across the globe which contribute to my social circle.
Oshin Thapa
Hometown: Butwal
Home Country: Nepal
Major: Pre- Medical( Biological Science)
Language Spoken: Nepali, Hindi, English ( working on Spanish)
Why A-State: I have always wanted to experience abroad studying and explore my myself. Even though it sounds fancy; when it comes to real situations things are different. Arkansas State university is top 20 affordable universities in USA for international student with safe surrounding not to mention with top notch teaching- learning experience. While I was applying for colleges and doing my homework on it A-state immediately caught my eye and deep down I knew this is where I wanted to go. And after being here for more than a year now, I was 1000% correct about it!
Why I am pursuing my current degree: I aspire to become a cardiothoracic surgeon someday in 15 years and thats why I am pursuing this major. Although I am fully aware my interest in my specialty might change by the time I am done. I am currently a sophomore and enjoying, learning, growing everyday and embracing to my fullest. I have always wanted to be frontline medical provider. I love helping. It would be great if you could save someone’s life.
Favorite things to do on Campus: I have so many things that I love to do but first to begin with I love Bean Bags and love to lay there after a hectic day. Anywhere outdoor bench around the campus on good sunny day is my favorite. Me and my friends always hangout in student lounge(specifically Starbucks’). College Pavilion is my therapy where I love to take my snacks and study its so refreshing and relaxing!
Why I am an International ambassador: As an international student myself, I still recall how hard it was for me to start new; trying to adjust with so many insecurities and cultural differences . I was lucky enough to have my friend whom I call my family now also along with how much my orientation leader was there for me to help get ready for school. I wanted to be that go to person for coming new student and try to be there for them in any way I can be. Also getting an opportunity to work with this fabulous team to do better is so inspiring and will help me grow more professionally, teach me life lesson and become a good human being as a whole.
Yixing Wang
Hometown: Zhe Jiang, a south east province of China
Home Country: China
Major: Computer Science
Language Spoken: Chinese and English
Why A-State: Because I think A-State provides systematically teaching in computer science, and A-State has a good reputation for its international students community.
Why I Am Pursuing My Current Degree: Because the methods in computer science, like ways of modeling problems, are very interesting and useful that they can be used to tackle real world challenges. Computer science is also a powerful tool that is used in various fields like science, engineering, and businesses. I believe learning computer science lays a foundation for studying other fields in the future.
Favorite things to do on Campus: As a nerd, I enjoy studying in the library. To be less nerdy, I go to all kinds of international events on campus – the conversation club at the BCM, for example, is one of my favorite places where I met all my crazy friends.
Why I Am An International Ambassador: Studying in a university is difficult, studying in a university abroad is more challenging. I wish I can give motivations to international students and assist them to make more personal connections, so they can excel both their academic and social life!
