Meet international students in the USA and Canada

from India
major MBA

"Education in the USA is more practical-oriented and the value of a US university degree is more recognized all around the world than any other country. The system of education in USA is well organized and quality people are making it more and more productive. By studying in US universities, you will learn so many things that you can get very good returns in respect of experience, money and above all job satisfaction.

You'll also get more exposure towards the real and practical aspects of life in respect of studying business. As an MBA student I interact with people from around the world: students, faculty, staff and professionals during Curricular Practical Training (CPT).

I chose the Post campus of Long Island University because it is the most beautiful University in USA: it's huge and beautiful! Also, its MBA major has one of the best accreditations: AACSB.

The faculty at Long Island University are so dedicated and highly motivated. There is kind of family bond in between students and the faculty. Administrative people in the University are ready to help you out at any time. They are just an e-mail away.

When I graduate, my first preference will be to continue my studies at LIU. After studying here, even for just a year, no one can leave this campus. Anyone can fall in love with the campus, such a lovely campus it is.

When I compare myself with my friends who did not apply through Study Group, I feel lucky. My friends faced lots of trouble and hurdles in the university application process. But with the help of Study Group my application was so easy and enjoyable. I saved lot of money as Study Group helped me in choosing good universities, so I did not waste my money in unnecessary applications. My application process was quick. It was just a matter of submitting a bunch of all the required documents to Study Group. That's it -you are done!

Above all, Study Group administration people are so organized that you can get to know your application status from your home country just by dialing the Study Group phone. They are highly skilled and moreover very friendly. I met so many nice people from Study Group, from Mumbai to Manhattan."

from Korea
age 19
planned major Psychology
program 2-semester Foundation Diploma
graduated from ISC: August 2011 

Euntae has contributed to our student blog. Follow her blog on Wordpress.

"I had a dream to go to America to study some day. And finally the chance came to me. I registered at the James Madison University International Study Center to study English and also prepare for life in USA. Going to America was an adventure to me. Different language, cultures, histories, thoughts, appearances, foods - more differences than similarities made me worried. But at the ISC, I can learn how to adjust to American culture and that makes me comfortable and relieved. I want to have a good command of English and have more confidence in myself.

There are some differences between the life in Korea. First of all living in the dorm with somebody who don't know each other is not that comfortable but I'm get used to it. And the people's attitudes are really different from Korea. In Korea they are not very friendly to strangers. But I was surprised that most of the people in America are really kind and if I ask them a help they explained me more detail and kindly.

First time I walked around the campus, I lost the way. I was so confused what is where and which building is where because campus was too large. I heard the buildings in James Madison University are over one hundred. There are lots of facilities for students. One of my best is UREC where I can work out. In there we can swim, rock-climb, coached by personal trainer. First time I tried rock-climbing, I thought I can't climb the top of the wall, but I did it. Here in USA, I learned to take challenge and face it without fear of failure."

from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
major Entrepreneurial Management
program Bachelor of Commerce
graduated 2009
now Head of Strategic Marketing at an IT company, Saudi Arabia

"The Bachelor of Commerce program at Royal Roads University was the best 12 months of my life. I learned to develop critical management skills and the ability to create and grow a sustainable business. The network I've gained is priceless.

I first heard about RRU from my instructor at college in Ontario. He taught at Royal Roads University for a summer and was impressed with the practical aspect of the programs. The good mix of real life experience and theory really interested me.

My intention in coming to Canada for an education was to find new perspectives, a new vision and new theories about business. Everyone in Saudi has the same or similar credentials and I knew I'd have to do something different to get ahead.

What I liked about the community of students at RRU was their level of maturity. We were all there for the same reason and had set our goals.

At first, I found it challenging to keep up with the amount of academic professional writing required in the program. But, I got lots of support both through the Moodle online platform, and in person at the writing centre.

In my experience faculty treated everyone equally and they expected the same level of accomplishment from everyone. They set that expectation early on. If you showed real effort, the faculty responded by giving you the same level of support back. We quickly became a community where we all knew each other. When you have a small class you really get that sense of community. To this day, I'm still in touch with my classmates. In fact, several of them have become colleagues and have come to work with me in Saudi. We all keep in touch and try to have a few reunions. Royal Roads University was a great place to start to build my network.

The campus is absolutely breathtaking - the gardens and streams and greenery are amazing. I felt I was on a fabulous field trip every day. This place is something that you just don't experience anywhere else."

from China
major Psychology
program Bachelor's degree

Read Trista's blog: 'International Students at Long Island University'

"I came to Long Island University in 2007, and am now a fourth year student. Besides working towards my bachelor's degree, I am an active student in the University - I am proud to say that, I am now an international orientation leader who is there for new students from very beginning of the semester to later in their university life. I think my commitment in student services was all inspired by the first orientation experience I had with Long Island University and Study Group.

I still remember my first study aboard experience with Study Group. I was in the Embassy ESL program in England, the second year of high school. It was a fun trip which also improved my English. In high school, we learned English grammar but it was hard to practice it in daily life. I certainly think being in an English speaking community helps you learn the language from a native way.

One of the reasons I could be successful in my university life in US is because of that experience in English language preparation. My experiences with Study Group continued as I planned on going to university in the US. Well, getting through visa and flight was not the first time for me but, it's still a hard time and Study Group helped with application and admission process. I remember at the orientation, there were Study Group representatives there, doing presentations about how to pay tuition fees and explain about the health insurance policies. That was really a helpful program for new international students to adjust into their new study and living experience. Moreover, it was just feeling great when you come alone by yourself, to know there were people being nice, who care about your feelings, take care of your needs and be there whenever you got any questions."

"The area I'm studying is really hard. My major is psychology. I like it a lot. The reason I chose Long Island University? I have a lot of reasons to choose here. Well it's close to New York City, it's on Long Island. It has really nice scenery. All those considerations included too. It's really convenient to get to the city because you can take train, and you can also take bus and transfer to subway. I think I watched a show over at Manhattan and I managed to get back onto campus before 12. So the transportation is really convenient. This campus is a great campus. I think it's one of the largest at a private school. Then they offer a lot of convenient services, like the shuttle bus. It's really helpful for students who first got started, as a student never traveling around, like never traveling to another nation before, it's really easy for them to get adjusted into all those environments, all those challenges."

from Saudi Arabia
planned major Computer Information Systems
ISC program Foundation Diploma

"I think James Madison University is one of the best Universities in the US. The International Study Center is good because I can study both English classes and academic classes there. The program helps me to know about study at James Madison University.

I like the people and Harrisonburg. Everyone is friendly. It's an awesome place to study. I live on campus in Eagle Hall. My residence hall is good and I have an awesome roommate. He helps me and we go together at the weekend to see some movie or hang out."

from Hong Kong
major International Hotel Management 
program Bachelor of Arts
graduated 2011
now Assistant Guest Service Manager, Sandman Hotel, Canada

"I came to Canada from Hong Kong to study English and then I became very interested in tourism. I attended a presentation about the BA in International Hotel Management at Royal Roads and knew that's what I wanted to do.

The whole approach to education in Canada is so different. At Royal Roads, we were constantly encouraged to ask questions, do our own research, and bring new ideas to the discussions in class. In the first semester, I was very shy, but by the second semester I felt comfortable asking questions and contributing. We discussed real life examples from the tourism industry which helped us prepare for working in the area of hotel management. For me, this experience made me realize that when you participate - when you speak up and contribute - you learn so much better. It was challenging, and it was a lot of fun.

One of the best things about this program is working in small groups on projects; sharing ideas and helping each other. When I first came to Royal Roads, I felt insecure about my ability to write English at a university level. I got help from the Writing Centre on campus and I got lots of support from faculty and my fellow students and I improved.

I also got a lot of help from the internship coordinator in the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management with preparing a resume and cover letter and developing an online presence on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn to help me get a job. We were given lots of opportunities to meet hotel managers and make connections with them which was very important to our future.

I worked with so many different types of people throughout my program. It prepared me to deal with people and situations when I started my internship position as a guest service agent. I'm pleased that the General Manager has recently selected me for additional training as a guest service manager.

The other great thing about studying at Royal Roads is the beautiful campus and grounds. My friends and I often went for walks on the trails and around the gardens to enjoy the quiet and fresh air."

from China
major Master of Public Administration

"I'm taking graduate degree in New York. Long Island University is very good. Post is very good campus because its very big and all different student facility is offered. It is complete. I have opportunity to go to sports and swimming or cycling. And also the transportation is good. I can take the train, the bus and I can drive too so I like it very much. I would like to say Study Group is a very strong way into Long Island University."

from South Korea
major International Hotel Management
program Bachelor of Arts
graduated 2010
now Intern, Coast Plaza Hotel, Vancouver

"My time at Royal Roads University was very memorable. I made the decision to enroll in the BA in International Hotel Management program while I was completing my Hotel and Restaurant Management diploma in Vancouver. Moving out on my own made me a little nervous because English is my second language and I was not familiar with Victoria, but I'm glad I made the move.

My experience at Royal Roads was amazing. Although I had visited the campus the previous summer, I did not remember it to be so beautiful.

I now realize that I wasn't ready to go into the real world of business before finishing a BA in International Hotel Management at Royal Roads. The courses in this program cover many different topics such as finance, human resources, sustainability, globalization, strategy, leadership, culinary tourism, entrepreneurship, ethics, multicultural management, and IT. I have learned how to manage businesses and provide services from several different perspectives.

I now feel more confident than ever before. With the help of the Internship Coordinator, I was able to improve my job application, interview, and social media networking skills as well as prepare an internship plan and SWOT analysis for my organization.

My classmates were great and I learned a lot through teamwork. Although I have only just begun my internship, the teamwork learning has already proven useful. I am thrilled to be stepping into the hospitality industry and apply what I've learned in the program."

from Mali
planned major Biology
ISC program and duration Foundation Diploma
graduated from ISC: April 2011

Oumar is our student blogger. Follow his blog about University in the USA and connect with him on Wordpress.

"After those two wonderful semesters at the International Study Center, now I feel a lot more confident than when I had my first class. While we were in the Foundation Diploma program, teachers were very patient with us. That is one of the things that helped me a lot. We felt comfortable expressing ourselves in English and learned a lot about American culture.

When I came to US, I was a little bit lost. Even though I had come here to visit when I was little, the idea of coming and live here was quite challenging. United States is a country completely different from mine. People, the culture, the way of thinking, everything seemed so different and I knew it was going to take a long time for me to get used to that and I also knew that I could never be so familiar with that country to call it home. Being in the International Study Center at James Madison University I think, was the best thing for me. I was surrounded by other international students who also lack in English and we exchanged our culture during classes and outside classes. An interesting thing about the International Study Center is, while you learn English, you also take some academic classes that are going to make your English even better and make you more familiar with James Madison University.

Since I was little, I always loved English. I've learned English in Kenya, one of the numerous countries I've been to. Learning English wasn't obvious for me. I've always been in a French system and did everything in French till 12th grade. I didn't miss an opportunity to practice my English. All the time I met a person who speaks English, I will talk in English even though I made lots of mistakes. Thus, my English level was a little better than most of my classmates. But I don't complain for having been in a French system. Discipline, respect and course diversity were all the things I've learned. But I always knew I wanted to study in America. I have a passion for this country.

In high school I decided to specialize in science. Therefore, when I came to James Madison University I chose Biology as my major. I love biology and everything that deals with human body. The human body is a mystery to me and I want to know as much as I can about it. Later in the future I want to be a doctor. I am thinking of taking either pediatric or cardiology as a specialty. As a matter of fact, I love kids and all my friends soon or later say that I am a big baby myself. To reach that goal, I know I have years of studies to do but when I think about all the people I could help if I become a physician, the length of studies doesn't scare me. I am scared of being discouraged because I know that I have a long way to do and that it is really competitive but as my dad told me, work always pays."

from Shandong, China
major Professional Communication
program Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts
graduated 2008 (and MA in 2010)
now Translator/Teaching Assistant in Canada

"The Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication program at Royal Roads University allowed me to develop critical skills for the workplace like self discipline, goal setting and teamwork. Through the program I improved my intercultural confidence and enhanced my social network which helped me take advantage of numerous opportunities to secure work in the future.

I was impressed by the excellent quality of students at Royal Roads University and the high caliber of the faculty who were very supportive of my learning throughout the program."

from Kazakhstan
planned major Business
program 3-semester Foundation Diploma

"I want to study in the USA because it will give me a big opportunity to apply for a good job. I think it will help me to get to real world, so that when I go back to my country I can work at an oil company.

At the International Study Center I am helped with improving English, being well prepared for University, and communicating with both international and local students. Compared to studying in my country there is a big difference in teaching and learning at James Madison University. Communication with other people is also very different. I live with another student in Rockingham Hall residence in a shared room. Living on campus, I enjoy the independence of my new life, and socializing with American students at Rockingham Hall.

During the weeks I am studying but I also go swimming, and meet with friends at my favorite place on campus - Taylor Down Under (TDU). There you can rest and meet a lot of people, and play pool or watch some comedy etc. I got to the final of the 9-ball pool student tournament at TDU! At the weekends, usually I love to travel and see more of America, but it depends how much work I have.

I think one of the most important attitudes to have as an international student is be prepared for everything. Don't complain, be positive ."

from India
major International Studies

"I came here as an undecided student but since then I've decided to do International Studies. All of my professors have a PhD or a doctorate in something and they have a really good way of relating to the students and if you have trouble understanding something they are always free to answer questions or give you extra credit or whatever it is. They've got your back!

So, Study Group was more like my ticket to the US. They helped me through every step of the way, my visa process, finding a college, just everything. Every paperwork was done by them. So, it was helpful. Especially for international students, Long Island University has a big enough campus that you meet a lot of different people but at the same time you're just not another student because you're given personal attention and you don't get lost. So I would definitely recommend it."

from China
planned major BSc Environmental Science
preparation program English for Academic Purposes
age 21

"I want to have more experience so came to Canada to study at University. Study Group can be trusted to help you with admission to Royal Roads University. I join the International Study Centre for language progressing. The university has good teachers who tell me the truth. I also like the teachers' sense of humor.

My favorite place is cafeteria on campus; a big lunch is waiting for me every day! After class I do homework, play basketball, and take photographs. I hang out with Canadian students almost every day on campus. I like that Victoria is by seaside. I enjoy seeing the sea every day.

My goal is to get the degree of master and devote myself to career of environment."

from South Korea
major Accounting, after ESL

"I took ESL and I'm now majoring in Accounting. We have a lot of international student activities, like club and culture and organizations. Professors are so nice and people around here is very nice so I love to study in America. I work in the Korean association, and I work with international association and I have been orientation leader to help people to understand. When the new students came, I help them to understand the university, and show the university and the programs.

I have Korean, Chinese, Indian and Malaysian friends and I have American friends. I wasn't good at speaking English very well before. I was so shy and I don't know what the American culture were. ESL class helped me to speak more and then know about American culture slowly and nicely so I could understand why people talk to me suddenly and why people smile at me even if I don't know them. So it was a great opportunity to know about American culture. If I ask question to the professor they usually speak nicely and slowly and then I can ask questions through email. I have many ways to contact them so I think it is very nice."

from: Japan
planned major: Business
program: 4-semester Foundation Diploma

"I came to James Madison University in September 2010 through Study Group. I didn't study English so much until now, but I thought 'Everything will be all right' before I come to America. However, I found that communicating with the other international students in English is so difficult for me, far from what I thought. My feeling that 'I want to be able to speak English fluently' or 'I want to communicate with various people in English' provoke me into starting to work in earnest.

If I didn't use English and avoid to communicate in English, my English skills wouldn't improve. I think I should communicate with American students, so I joined club activity. Of course, I can't talk with them as I want to do, but they are so kind, so they talk with me and they try to hear my awkward English. Their generosity and kindness give me motivation. I'm glad to meet good friends in JMU.

Finally, I have a one thing I felt through communicating with Americans. If we are born in different place or have different culture, we are still same human. We laugh when we are happy, we are crying when we are sad, and all become hungry, sleepy. We are same human, even if we use different language, so when I came here, I don't have any culture shock.

I don't have enough English skills yet, but I'll do my best - I cannot waste the time or opportunity that was given to me."

Download the Japanese version of the testimonial ( PDF file, 76 kB)

from China 
planned major BA Communication
preparation program English for Academic Purposes
age 21

"I chosen Royal Roads University because it's a good university to improve my English. The best thing about the University is the study environment and teachers. The teachers and staff at the ISC helped me solve the study problems and life problems. In class, I enjoy to communicate with teachers and classmates. We can communicate with others and know each others very well. The library is my favorite place. There are lots of different kind of books. I like to go shopping and study in the library at weekends.

My advice to other international students thinking of coming to university in Canada is to have enough vocabulary and you should not stop studying.

After graduating I want to do further study, read more books and help my father's company."

from Indonesia
age 27
level graduate
program English preparation
major MEd Educational Technology
graduated from ISC: August 2010

"A very good teacher and a very interesting curriculum drive me to enjoy learning in the International Study Center. I have been preparing not only English skill but also study skill and American culture. The program helps me to get a success in studying in one of America's top universities: James Madison University. This is really interesting experience that I have never had before."

from Saudi Arabia
planned major BA Hotel Management
preparation program English for Academic Purposes
age 22

Faisal is our student blogger. Follow his blog and connect with him on Wordpress.

"I decided Canada would be a good place to learn English and study my major - Hotel Management. I enjoy living in Canada and learning English. Applying with Study Group was very good for me. The best things are the Royal Roads University campus and the staff, especially my teachers. I learned about writing and reading in the International Study Centre (ISC). The ISC is different from school in my home country because you can only speak English.

My favorite place is gym on campus, because I like sport. Not only did I use the gym, but I also used the library and cafeteria in the University. I live in a house with a family in Colwood which is a nice place. The city of Victoria is a quiet city.

My long-term career plan is to be a businessman in Saudi Arabia. My advice to other international students is come to class every day."

from China
major Accounting
program 3-semester Foundation Diploma
graduated from ISC: August 2011

"James Madison University attracted my interest because it has a nice environment and a good educational program. By applying to the International Study Center, I did not need a TOEFL score, and they help me improve my English. My tutors at the International Study Center are very nice and patient, and the staff are very helpful. They helped me a lot with my studies and student life.

At James Madison University I can make friends with people from other countries, improve my English, and learn about different cultures. I eat lunch with my new American friends. After class, I eat at the Dining Hall (known a D-Hall to students), do some exercises at the Recreation Center, and go to the Carrier Library to study.

It's really fun to study at JMU, even though you have to work hard. I want to become an accountant in China after I graduate."

from Kenya
program Master of Arts
graduated 2009
now University Recruiter in Canada

"Studying at Royal Roads University in Canada has given me the skills and global connections I need to succeed professionally. My degree holds significant value and credibility both back home in Kenya and globally. The master's program curriculum was challenging - I had to study and work hard - but there was always support, particularly from my classmates and the Library. The Library staff coached me through day-to-day technology issues and helped me use the university's learning platforms efficiently, so I could focus my attention on grappling with the academic concepts. Throughout the master's program, University faculty got to know me as an individual. They understood my needs and what I was passionate about. The small class sizes allow this depth of interaction.

The Royal Roads University model gave me a sound academic foundation. I will bring hands-on tangible learning back to my country. It was a phenomenal experience - I would do it again without changing anything!"

from China
planned major Studio Art
ISC program: 3-semester Foundation Diploma
graduated from ISC: August 2011

"I want to get my degree in America because the USA has one of the best education systems in the world and it is a new experience for me - the way to explore the world and expand my mind.

Applying to the International Study Center has three major advantages for students: Firstly, students who don't have TOEFL or IELTS score can apply to universities through Study Group. Secondly, students can earn the university course credit at the same time as improving language. Last but not least, students get familiar with US university life.

James Madison University has the very high ranking of southern universities. Moreover, it has a low population of Chinese students, which means that it is better for language practice. JMU has an excellent environment for study and it is close to Washington DC as well. They have small sized classes, which means that it is easier to connect with other students and professors. The classes are interesting and creative; it is a pretty nice place for study.

My advice to other international students is attend as many events as you can. Events are the best time for meeting American students or other international students as well. Speak loud and show you are here - this is the place to achieve your dreams.

After I graduate from James Madison University, I plan to go to Europe to study, and I like the idea of travel around the world. I would love to absorb new experience from other cultures."

from Saudi Arabia
planned major BA Hotel Management
preparation program English for Academic Purposes
age 23

"The International Study Center admissions staff help me about apply to Royal Roads University. I learn English and Canadian culture at the International Study Centre. My favorite place is the gym on campus, because I like sport. I like both city of Victoria and city of Vancouver. I most like downtown and the gardens in Victoria.

After graduating I will go back my home and think about a business. My advice to other international students is to study hard and push yourself."

from India
major Management

"I'm doing my masters in healthcare administration. And it comes under MPA - that is Master's of Public Administration. This is my second semester and I'm enjoying it as of now. I have made a lot of friends too. Actually that's the sole purpose of coming abroad and studying that you meet diverse people and my class also has a diverse population, so I am having fun. I was here to learn. I grab things and go back and apply in my country. It's an experience. Networking is good, application, clinical experience everything is good so I think I made the right choice. And New York is good. I like it a lot.

I am actually staying off campus with friends. I thought of staying on campus but then again I wasn't very sure. The good point is Long Island University has Facebook pages and many social websites where you can find people who are coming with you from other countries or other places. So you get together and find a place off campus. And traveling is perfect in New York. You know the public transport system is amazing. So it's a good time to travel to look around on trains, buses. Living off campus is a good experience. I just have to cook myself - that's the bad part!"

from China
major Quantitative Finance
graduating May 2012

"The best thing about studying here is that I get to learn about different cultures, values and beliefs. In the past year, I got the opportunity to know students from all over the world, and became friends with them. While learning about other cultures, I realized what my own culture is. The diversity is definitely one of the best things.

I chose JMU because of several reasons. The business program rocks. I believe I can learn a lot from it and become competitive with the material I learn here when I go out and look for jobs. I like the weather here especially during the spring and summer... but the weather in the fall is even more beautiful! I can lie on the grass and enjoy the breeze and sunshine while I am reading. I enjoy the smell of nature here. Last but not least, my uncle's family lives nearby. They helped me a lot. Also it feels good to live near them.

I love JMU so much - the learning experience is fantastic because of several reasons. First, as a result of living in a dorm I learned tons of stuff from my roommate especially in terms of language and culture. We became such close friends that we decided to be roommates again next year. Second, JMU organizes many programs throughout the year for the international students to make sure that JMU becomes their second home but also for us to explore and learn about different cultures. We went to a haunted cave for Halloween, we went to a professor's house for Thanksgiving dinner, we had a Chinese week, a taste of Africa and many other activities. Third, the academics here are excellent. Our business program ranks in the top 50 of the nation, the Computer Information Systems and Management Science department is in the top ten and Accounting in the top twenty. Therefore I believe the experiences you can get as an international student here at JMU are unique.

At JMU, I always find myself involved in many programs or of course activities along with other students including American students. I made a lot of good friends here in JMU. Personally I really recommend JMU just because of that. Here in JMU you can not only learn knowledge, but also a better chance to improve your English skills, learn the culture and make a lot of friends. We have an international dorm here where you live with other international students, as well as other open minded American students. There are always international programs that you really want to go but you can't because every program is so good and you don't have time to go to every one of them. Life is not all about studying. Life includes a real 'life', and JMU can provide a real international student life for you."

from China
planned major BA Communication
preparation program English for Academic Purposes
age 21

"I decided to go to Canada for university study. Canada is a safe country and Royal Roads University is very beautiful campus. Study Group help me with admission such as fill down the form about health insurance.

I think the best thing about the University is kind teachers and students. All students work together in class. We learn grammar, reading and listening. I live with a homestay family in Langford, 2.5 miles from campus. In Canada, people is nice. They smile and are helpful.

I want to keep study after graduating from Royal Roads University, and then find a job about art and communication."

from Saudi Arabia
planned major: Biotechnology
ISC program: 4-semester Foundation Diploma

"I chose James Madison University because they have a very good program for international students. I would give this advice about the program to other international students: don't miss any classes and focus on your writing. We have a Writing Center at JMU that's helpful. And also we have support classes at the International Study Center. If you need some help with study, they will help you.

I live off campus in an apartment with other students. It's called North 38."

from China
planned major BA Hotel Management
preparation program English for Academic Purposes
age 19

"Royal Roads University is a good place. I like Canada and I choose Royal Roads University because it have good environment. The best things are the teachers and the environment. In class, we use a smartboard to learn grammar, study skill, writing and reading. We study in a small class, and that is different to school in China.

I want a career as a Psychologist but first I want to go traveling after graduating University. There is a beach on the campus and I like to go there. I go shopping, read books, and watch TV at weekends."

from Saudi Arabia
age 20
planned major Pre-Medicine
program 3-semester Foundation Diploma

Hamed is our student ambassador at James Madison University. Connect with Hamed on our Facebook page.

"I wanted to come to study in the US because my opinion is that United States is the best place to get a university degree. I will study pre-Meds and qualify for Medical school when I graduate from James Madison University. I have come to JMU through a government scholarship and Cultural Mission of Saudi Arabia in USA handled everything for my admission.

The International Study Center is the way to JMU - the teachers lead the international students to sophomore year at James Madison University, they make us aware, teach us what we should do and shouldn't, for example, teachers ask us to avoid plagiarism and to be original, give us many assignments and homework is similar to what the college students are getting. The ISC teachers always offer help for the students, ask them to visit their offices, sometimes if the student doesn't understand the assignment, the instructor sets an appointment with the student in the office to explain more and make everything clear. The teaching here is exciting, nice arguments happen in classes, and I like the articles in my books. I go to Miller hall, Memorial hall, Carrier library, and East Campus library to study. I like this whole campus, and I feel free to study everywhere here.

I live off-campus in 'Purple and Gold Way'; it is a really luxury, nice, new, and comfortable place. I have had a lot of good experiences and in the top of these experiences is, doing many things by myself. It is really nice when you come here while you are young, and are doing many things independently - living without parents telling you what should you do, you have your mind and you have to decide what is right and what is wrong.

In my free time I get some snacks, talk to my friends, and study (if I have a long break time). On weekends I like visiting and meeting some of my friends. When I passed the culture shock period, I started to get many friends from different cultures and countries. My advice to new students is, to pass the culture shock successfully you should be outgoing, a smiley and funny person."

from China
planned major Accounting
program  3-semester Foundation Diploma
graduated from ISC: August 2011

"I decided to come here because USA universities have a good study environment. Study Group helps me to adjust to that environment and improve my English. At the International Study Center, I can study English and get credits from university at the same time. I choose James Madison University because it is famous for Business programs.

Student life is quite different to my home country. It's more relaxed, but more homework. Every week I can talk with my conversation partner to help improve my English language, and learn how to get along with people. I eat lunch together with American students every week and am making new friends. People here are helpful and outgoing.

My favorite place on campus is the UREC (University Recreation Center); it's good for my health. When I'm not at UREC I like to watch movies, read a book, and enjoy the quiet city of Harrisonburg."

from Israel
planned major Master of Global Management 
preparation program Pre-Master's
age 21

"I want to live in Canada and become a Canadian. My plan after my degree is to find a full time job in my field and start the PhD. Maybe it will not be cheap to start with this preparation program but it's worth it to improve my English before I start the program degree. Study Group gives very good preparation before the degree.

Studying in Canada is different from study in my home country. Here is small groups, and personal treatment. I enjoy learning in small groups. That is the best way that it could be. It couldn't be better.

I live in an apartment in downtown Victoria with my family. Victoria is very beautiful and comfortable city. The people here are very friendly and the nature beauty."

from China
planned major Accounting
program 3-semester Foundation Diploma
graduated from ISC: August 2011

"I really enjoy learning with the help of professors at James Madison University. I think America has the best education in the world. JMU is a really good school, especially for my major - accounting - and it's just 2 hours away from Washington, D.C.

The International Study Center tutors help us in improving English, choosing the best classes for us and making study schedules. Therefore I feel very supported here.

My favorite place on the campus is the huge library, where I can find whatever books I want. But of course I also use the computer lab and the Recreation Center. I live in Rockingham hall, a really nice place.

Life on the campus is quiet and peaceful and the city of Harrisonburg has friendly people. Just get involved in student activities and you will soon find a lot of American friends."

from China
planned major Bachelor of Commerce in Entrepreneurial Management
preparation program English for Academic Purposes
age 20

"I want to change my lifestyle, study English and study business. I want to be a businessman. So I apply to university in Canada! I am happy every day in Canada.

The city of Victoria is beautiful and quiet. I live in homestay in Westhills, about 3.5 miles from campus. At weekend, I enjoy spending time with my roommate and homestay mama. My free time, after class, I go downtown or uptown for shopping mall. I can talk with Canadians in the shopping mall and also at home and school.

Everything is new and different at Royal Roads University. I learn speaking and writing at the International Study Centre. I study every day in the Grant building. The University has good teachers and a beautiful place."