How did you decide on where and which schools you wanted to apply for? (What did you look for in a school?)

The location of the school was a major factor in deciding which schools I wanted to apply for. I really wanted to study in Canada but when that did not work out New York was my next option. The quality of the forensic science program at the school was also important. How successful are the students after graduation? Does every aspect of the program prepare you for the real world? If possible do some research on the professors and their qualifications, are they doing research? Have they published and recent articles? As an international student, you may also want to pay attention to how the school administrators and advisors interact with you. Is there a particular program for welcoming international students and maintaining a relationship with them throughout the duration of their studies? These are all important questions that you should consider to ensure you will receive the best educational experience to suit your needs.

How would you advise someone to prepare for this big change? 

Always be open minded because you may be going into a country and culture that you are unsure of.  Be prepared to observe your surroundings and the new people you will meet so it becomes easier to adjust. Stick close to your friends and family and absorb all of the positive encouragement you receive because you will need it. If you enter this experience with a closed mind you may have already failed yourself and it will be difficult to adjust.

Do you recommend working on campus?

Being an international student is very expensive so my best advice is to definitely seek on-campus employment. Throughout my studies, I held three positions on campus. I was a college laboratory technician, a research assistant and a peer ambassador. Not only were they financially beneficial but they were great resume builders as well. Two were related to my studies in the science field and the other position greatly enhanced my leadership skills. They all worked well with my class schedule and by the time I graduated I was more than prepared to enter the workforce. Three may be excessive for everyone to handle but my best advice would be to find a position that works well with your class and study schedule.

How do you manage your time?

My student planner was my friend. Everything I had to do I wrote in there. I knew where I had to be and when. This was important because I was also heavily involved in student activities on campus. Keep a journal, a calendar, set it up on your smartphone do whatever is necessary. If you are to accomplish all of your goals and get the full experience from your educational journey time is very important and not to be wasted.

What do you do when you are homesick?

From my experience just talking to my family alone did not help the feeling of being homesick, it only made it worse. I had a few other alternatives that definitely helped. It is very important to hold on to your culture. Before you leave home pack small things that would remind you of home. Ask your parents or family members to pack all the local snacks and goodies that you enjoy the most and send you a care package. Listen to the music that you enjoy from your country. Check up on your country’s local news daily to see what is happening in your country, what are people discussing? Has anything changed? Can you contribute to these discussions? Stay in contact with your friends, use social media to your advantage. Once you stay connected with your homeland it’s almost like you’re still there.

How do you relax when you are overwhelmed?

I pray, vent to a friend, take some time away from the house and listen to music or dance. Everyone has their own way of dealing with that overwhelming feeling. If you need to cry, then cry. If there is someone around you that you can share your burden with feel free to do so. Never be afraid to ask for help. If the problem is related to your international student status please seek advice from your designated school official.

What do you wish you knew before moving for school?

I didn’t know everything that I needed to but there isn’t anything I wish I knew. It is all a learning experience and it isn’t always easy but just do as much research as possible based on what is important ( tuition, housing, immigration, program of study, financing your studies, the country) and you should be fine.

Any advice?

Do not be a hindrance to your own progress. As international students, yes we do have a lot of limitations but there are ways to work around them for your own benefit. Take in as much as you can from your school not just what they have to offer in the classroom but otherwise. Get involved in campus activities, join clubs, build relationships with faculty and get to know your peers. In today’s world it’s important to be a well-rounded individual. Companies and graduate programs are no longer looking for the smartest in the class, what else do you bring to the table? Do you work well with others? How are your problem-solving skills? Attend as many conferences related to your field of study as possible. Please take advantage of every opportunity presented to you, and if you have any reservations I’m sure you pay for the opportunity anyway. God Bless!