What school do you go to in the US, and what did you study?
In August of my final year – my Senior year, I started at Manhattanville College, which is about 30 minutes from New York City. I studied Communications & Media, with a minor in Marketing.
Do you play a sport in the US? If so, what sport?
Yes, I play on the field hockey team. We are the Manhattanville Valiants!
Why did you want to study in the US?
Ever since I could remember I’ve always loved America. So it has always been a dream of mine to study, live and work in the US.
What is the most challenging part of being an international student in the US?
Of course you miss your family and friends in the Netherlands, but the whole lifestyle of American students is very different to that of Dutch students. Living on campus, spending almost 16 hours a week playing field hockey, and how your lessons are conducted are all very different.
What new opportunities has studying in the US brought to you since you finished studying/returned home?
I have become more mature, more independent, and I have learned how to address problems immediately. I have definitely learned to address issues straight away and to speak up! What’s more, America is the land of opportunity. As an international student, you are very ‘interesting’ to Americans, so that can also work well to your advantage.
What are some of your highlights of being in the US?
Pff … highlights … There were definitely some of those! In the US, to be able to study and play field hockey at the same time and represent the university was certainly a highlight. Meeting new people, getting to know America better by taking road trips, celebrating Spring Break, and experiencing Thanksgiving with an American family are only some of the highlights that I can recall at the moment.
How different is studying in the US, compared to studying at a Dutch or European educational institute?
In the US you have to be present in classes. You can’t just go and sit in the room, but you also need to contribute. Participation is a must. If you don’t do that you’ll automatically be marked down. Also, the classes are much smaller: I was one of an average of 15 people in a classroom. This enables you to get to know your colleagues, and your professor, much better. You can always ask your professor questions, or ask one of the so-called student teachers. You also have a writing center in the library where you can go to for help.
What do you think about the application process of getting into a US college or university?
One thing was for sure: without Marina and UStudy, the application process would have been a lot more difficult to navigate. There was so much to think about! Paperwork, paperwork, and even more paperwork. Certainly as an international student there is a lot more that you have to consider when you apply (such as the visa regulations and sitting the TOEFL test and other exams such as the SATs).
How was UStudy helpful for you?
UStudy was invaluable. Everything that was expected of me was laid out step-by-step. Essays to be written, letters of recommendation to be prepared, applying for the visa on time, etc. Without UStudy I would never have known all of that!
What are you currently doing in terms of study or work?
I am studying and have one more year at Manhattanville College. In the previous semester I did an internship in New York City at the World Policy Journal. An incredible experience.
What are your ambitions for the future?
Once I’ve finished my studies at Manhattanville I would like to do a masters in journalism at the University of Texas in Austin. Beyond that my plans are not concrete. Of course, finding a job in America would be fantastic, but yeah, time will tell!
