Meet international students in the USA and Canada

from Saudi Arabia
planned major Computer Information Systems
ISC program International First Year

"I think James Madison University is one of the best Universities in the USA. 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 Vietnam
planned major BA International Hotel Management
preparation program University Bridging Program
year started 2012 
age 18

"Studying abroad is my dream since I was a child. I found many schools, but Royal Roads University seems to be perfect to me. After study here for 3 months, I knew that my decision was right. Royal Roads University's campus looks like the landscape in the fairy-tale. On the other hand, the teachers and the classes are very wonderful. All of the classes are equip with the modern technology, this make the student feel convenient and comfortable. All of the teachers in Royal Roads University International Study Center are very friendly. They prepare everything perfectly before class and the way they teach make it enjoyable.

A little-know secret is that the ISC have many things can make you smile, like the candy for students or the map where you can show your name and country. The officers are friendly and they can help you whatever you need. Come and enjoy!"

from Guinea, West Africa 
double major International Relations and French
program Bachelor's degree

Mamadou Keita spoke no English when his family emigrated from Guinea. He polished his English in high school and founded the French Club during his Widener University freshman year.

 "I know what it's like to be out of your comfort zone. Speaking a new language can be intimidating, and the club is a space for a diverse group of students to practice their French through fun, intercultural activities. We find common ground through our love of French language and culture."

An active member of the University community, Mamadou also performs with the Widener University dance company.

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

Caroline is our student blogger. Follow her blog and connect with her on Wordpress.

"I choose Royal Roads University because of the high quality of teaching. I wanted to come to Canada because the way they teach at University here. When I was studying in my home country, we couldn't speak in class. Now, at the International Study Center, we do lots of group work. The teacher gives me chance to ask questions and speak in English.

I like my teacher's smile and the way they teach speaking and writing in English. People are very friendly in the classroom. People here are very friendly everywhere! I have made friends with Canadian students after class and in the bus station.

I plan to finish my English program, get my degree, and then go for master's degree. I enjoy living in Canada because it is beautiful. The city of Victoria feels natural."

from Korea
age 19
planned major Psychology
program 2-semester International First Year
graduated from ISC: August 2011 

Euntae has contributed to our student blog. Read her blog.

"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 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 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 International First Year
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 International First Year 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 Saudi Arabia
major Professional Communication
program Bachelor of Arts
preparation program University Bridging Program 

"Oh Canada! Such a beautiful country. Victoria is very quiet and it's not a very expensive city and people come to visit. When I heard about Royal Roads University I thought 'Wow, I wish I could study in this university'. I read a lot about it and I found it has great history.

I called the International Study Center and said I really would like to know more information about your program. I was surprised when I was told they could arrange an appointment with me anytime I like, even after working hours. Then when I came to the University, I was welcomed with a big smile. The admissions manager introduced the University and the program to me very well and she helped me to register quickly.

I knew that they have small classes. The teachers help me to achieve my goals and to study hard. When I email any instructor I see that they care so much about us. I am taking a BA in Professional Communication and in the future when I finish my degree I would like to take a master's degree at Royal Roads University. I am comfortable here and know that the education system in Canada is great."

from Kazakhstan
planned major Business
program 3-semester International First Year

"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 Center 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 International First Year

"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

"First of all, I want to say that I'm not fresh in University. In China, my major is English. So, I want to go abroad to continue my English study. I must say the campus in Royal Roads University is really different from what I experienced in China. For instance, I used to study or learn knowledge by myself. While, in Royal Roads University we always have some groups to work together, and most of us can cooperate well. The teachers and staff at the ISC help me solve the study problems and life problems. Secondly, the campus activities are rich and colorful. Last month, we celebrated the Chinese New Year with a party which was very amazing! In addition, our university has the first level equipment. It is the best experience that I've got a chance to study here and I sincerely hope that we continue to live wonderful lives in our campus.

Outside class, I always enjoy watching English movies and TV shows. In a word, I love studying in Royal Roads University.

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

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 Center (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 International First Year
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 Mexico
Planned major Bachelor of Business Administration
Year started 2012
age 20

"I came to Royal Roads University because they had a really flexible way of accepting international students, which made it easy for me to get admission into the campus courses. Royal Roads University provides a good length of different majors, which grabbed my attention. The University helped me to find a nice family, who would share their home with me and make me feel like home."

from China
planned major Studio Art
ISC program: 3-semester International First Year
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

"Getting a degree from a university that provides an academic education is a dream which all students desire. Canada is one of the best countries that has universities which are known for their fantastic reputation all over the world. Universities in Canada have proved that they are efficient by being some of the best universities around the world. The teachers who work at Royal Roads University International Study Center make the classes easy to understand and that is one of the main reasons why I chose Royal Roads University.

I have been in Canada for one year and a half. I like hanging out with my friends most of the time. I also like sightseeing, discovering other cultures and making new friends from all over the world. I live with my cousins and we are renting a house in Victoria, which is on Vancouver Island located on the west coast. The island enjoys amazing weather which helps people who live on it to be more relaxed and live free of stress. Not only that, but also students choose it to enjoy what Victoria has to offer, for example; wildlife, lakes and nature. I live close to the University.

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 International First Year

"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 Saudi Arabia
age 20
planned major Pre-Medicine
program 3-semester International First Year

"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 International First Year
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.

I chose Royal Roads University after deep research for Universities in Canada that specialized in Business and Management, to continue my studying. However, it didn't take me long to find that Royal Roads University is one of the most credible universities in Canada. Now that I'm here I'm very glad about my decision. I like everything here: the teachers are amazing, well known and qualified, the campus is very beautiful, the class are very comfortable, and the study environment is welcoming and pleasing. Furthermore, I like the challenges in the teaching way including the group work, challenging assignments, and good practice opportunities.
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.

Moreover, I think that Royal Roads University is one of the most beautiful campuses I have ever seen. And Victoria is a very beautiful city which includes everything: we have sea, mountains, forests, rivers, and lakes all of this in one place. So I'm not only enjoying my studying at Royal Roads University but also enjoying my life in Victoria. The people here are very friendly."

from China
planned major Accounting
program 3-semester International First Year
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 Center. I study every day in the Grant building. The University has good teachers and a beautiful place."