Could you describe the journey you took before choosing to study at an American University ?
I was an exchange student in South Africa with PIE in 2011 and then came back to France to finish my High School Diploma. I then chose to work (internships and small part-time jobs) before going back to my studies to get my Associate’s Degree in International Business. Once I received my degree, I worked as a sales assistant for a company that manufactures and sells equipment for fish farming.
What made you decide to get back into studying, especially in the USA ?
I was on a 10-month fixed-term contract, but I just didn’t enjoy the work and didn’t see any openings or a future within the company. I began to feel my limitations linked to my current situation, my desire to expand my horizons, and also that I had absolutely no desire to go back to my studies in France. I would like to add that I had also been thinking about living in the USA for a little while at that point. I already had some knowledge of the Go Campus programme, so I decided to go for it.
What obstacles did you face in making this decision ?
At the beginning, I had a lot of questions. The price for starters. It wasn’t too much of a turn-off for me though as I was able to apply for a student loan. I also understood pretty quickly that were I to choose a business school in France, I would have had to pay the same amount. I also started to wonder whether it would be wiser to continue working and then decide to go back to university later, but I was 21/22 years old, and it was time to change course. I knew I was taking a risk.
Do you regret making this decision ?
The beginning was a bit complicated especially with getting my Associate’s Degree credits validated. I was unable to transfer all of the credits so I ended up adding one/two semesters to my time here. However, there is a silver lining. Despite this, I will graduate with 152 credits and a Double Bachelor Degree in Management and Marketing.
Did you find what you were looking for regarding the teaching provided ?
The American system fits me better. There are more interactions between teachers and students – rather than the distance you so often find in France. But above all, the university wants students to succeed. They put everything in place for this to happen.
In what way ?
American universities care about each student’s journey. They don’t want us to switch off; they want us to finish our degrees. For example, you will find a study area for tutoring students, right in the centre of the campus, allowing those that have just started a specific class to ask questions to those that have already done it. Regarding the teaching side of things, the professors are available outside of their lectures and are happy to help you during their office hours. Their help is truly invaluable. Honestly, I believe it is much easier to succeed in the US than in France.
What about course content ?
I had quite a few general education classes to catch up on, some of which weren’t all that interesting to me but the further along I go, the fewer I have and the more specialised in my chosen area I become. The work gets harder too (working hours, requirements, knowledge…). For the subjects I had previously studied, the most interesting thing for me is to see a different approach and point of view to how it’s been taught before. It also depends on the professor you have!
And, life over there ?
An American student must be involved with their school, it’s the recurring theme throughout the campus. They want us to integrate into the way of life, and into the campus town (because the campus in and of itself is small). It’s because of this that sport is so highly regarded. At SUU, in particular, outdoorsy activities are highlighted because of its geographical location (the Canyons and proximity to national parks).
How do you see your next steps ?
When I first arrived, I wasn’t sure if I would stay for one year or finish my studies here. Now, the answer is clear. I only have two to three semesters left before I graduate. I am beginning to think about the OPT (Optional Practical Training – which allows you to stay and work legally in the US for one year upon completion of your studies), so I am trying to create my network. After that, it really all depends. My girlfriend is a student here but she’s not American so it’s hard to know if we’ll be able to make our mark here. It’s all a bit up in the air but we are obviously trying to relativise it all.
I realise that choosing to come to the USA was a real turning point in my life. At the beginning, I didn’t have regrets, never regrets but maybe some doubts but now, I’m making all my decisions and curious to see what will happen next.
