International Ambassador
Boaz Muteba
Hometown: Lubumbashi
Home Country: Democratic Republic of Congo
Major: Nursing
Language Spoken: English, French, Swahili, Lingala
Why A-State: My priority was to find a university that had a program for English as a second language. After a long search, I found Astate, which met all the criteria: a small town, a university that is not expensive, and a safe city. Additionally, for my major in nursing, Arkansas State University offers numerous opportunities for community engagement and personal development, making it an ideal choice for international students.
Why I Am Pursuing My Current Degree: I have always wanted to be a teacher; it's a desire that will never fade. However, I also realized that being a nurse is like being a teacher because we are all involved in humanitarian aid. Additionally, the field of nursing offers a unique opportunity to make a direct impact on people's lives while combining technical skills with deep compassion. This allows me to contribute positively to society while fulfilling my dream of helping others.
Favorite things to do on Campus: Playing soccer.
Why I Am An International Ambassador: The main desire that drove me to become an international student ambassador is to be a bridge between the university and the students, facilitating their integration and reaching out to those who need the most support.
International Ambassador
Braydon Wilson
Hometown: Cape Town
Home Country: South Africa
Major: Psychology
Language Spoken: English, Afrikaans
Why A-State: I chose A-State because I liked the look of the school. I had talked with a few of the guys on the rugby team and had spoken with the rugby coach and heard nothing but good things about Arkansas state. I am happy to say that I made the right decision in choosing A-state. The rugby program at Arkansas state is a top 10 D1A program which made the decision easier. The people at Arkansas State are very friendly and I enjoy the natural beauty that the state has to offer.
Why I Am Pursuing My Current Degree: I find the study of the mind and behavior interesting, and I enjoy sports. I found the school of Sports Psychology very interesting and would like to pursue a career in Exercise and Sports Psychology. The idea of helping athletes and people deal with sports related injuries and mental battles interests me, because I experience mental battles when it comes to sports or setbacks.
Favorite things to do on Campus: I enjoy working out at the Red Wolf Center. Going to Chic-Fil-A or Freshens to get some good food is definitely one of my favorite things to do. Football games and volleyball games are always interesting to watch.
Why I Am An International Ambassador: I enjoy meeting new people and helping new students. The international programs office is a good place to make new friends and meet new people. It is also good place to make new connections.
International Ambassador
Yuna
Hometown: Tokyo
Home Country: Japan
Major: Computer Science
Language Spoken: Japanese, English
Why A-State: I wanted to study abroad because I desired to experience new places, meet new people, and explore myself while learning new perspectives. In my home country, students are required to choose a major before entering university and are not allowed to change it later. What attracted me to A-State was its flexible degree options, which allowed me to explore various academic interests before committing to a major. Since coming to A-State, I’ve never regretted my decision! It’s always an exciting and rewarding experience.
Why I Am Pursuing My Current Degree: I’m majoring in Computer Science, and I truly enjoy it. Computer science skills can benefit people in so many ways and can be applied across various fields. In the future, I want to support people in need by providing access to an online system that can contribute to the improvement of their communities. The possibilities of computer science motivate me to keep learning, and I’m excited to use these skills in the future.
Favorite things to do on Campus: I enjoy the events on campus, especially during Homecoming Week. There are many fun activities, and it's a good chance to meet new people and make friends. I also like spending time in the study lounge as it has a large open area and private study rooms. So, I can hang out with friends or study on my own when I need to focus.
Why I Am an International Ambassador: When I first came here, I was shy and struggled with the language barrier. At that time, an international ambassador helped me a lot, and that experience inspired me to take on the same role and support other international students. Studying abroad, facing a language barrier, and adjusting to a new place with new people can be challenging. That’s why I want to be there for international students and support them as much as I can. And, I want to create a welcoming space where international students can connect and support each other.
International Ambassador
Mauricio Bautista
Hometown: Xalapa
Home Country: Mexico
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Language Spoken: English, Spanish, and Italian
Why A-State: I chose A-State due to its great engineering program and the different opportunities that the school offers. It has allowed me to develop in various fields that could help me later on.
Why I Am Pursuing My Current Degree: I have always been a curious person that tries to understand how things work. I thought that studying mechanical engineering would allow me to do this in a more professional way.
Favorite things to do on Campus: I enjoy going to the Red Wolf Center to lift weights and play basketball. I also like to hang out with my friends at the cafeteria.
Why I Am An International Ambassador: I became an ambassador because I like to help and talk to people. I find it fun to get to know new people and learn about their culture from back home.
