Making the Most of International Study

For international students coming to the U.S., the first few weeks are a time of change and upheaval—everything seems new, from how classes work to the food. With those changes come new hopes, goals, and survival strategies. In celebration of International Education Week, Larisa, a Muskie graduate fellow from Belarus, offers some reminders on how to make the most as an international student in the U.S.

Last year when I learned I had been awarded a Muskie Fellowship, I was excited and worried at the same time. Excited because after so many attempts — I first applied in 1998 — I’d gotten it. Nervous because I graduated from university a long time ago and had been part of the faculty for five years. I was worried about how to be a student again and how to complete all those homework assignments and course requirements. But now, after completing my first year as an international graduate student in the U.S., I can give some suggestions for international students on making the most of their study in America.

1. Learn to ask questions: During my school years at home in Belarus, I was always afraid of asking questions to the instructors. I thought that it could make me look stupid in the eyes of my classmates and professor. In America, it is absolutely different. You are always encouraged to ask questions, and discussion is an important part of class activities. Remember that your experience and your point of view can be crucial for the discussion.

2. Exercise: You are going to be very busy during your first semester and might not have a lot of time for your health. However, I am in the field of public health and I think that it is very important to pay attention to your health from the beginning of your studies. Don’t do like I did — don’t leave your health for the future — because it can lead you to be overweight and perhaps even depressed. Most American universities have a well-equipped sports center. Find 30 minutes a day for the gym and as a result you will be fit and you will have a great time. Now I can say that my favorite place at Emory University is our swimming pool. Find your favorite place!

3. Plan your travel: As international students seeking education in the U.S., we are very hard workers and very enthusiastic about education. However, we came to America not only to study, but also to explore American culture. The best way to do it is traveling. I know that is not easy to plan very much in advance, but do it, because it will save a lot of your money. Think what places you want to see that are close to where you study. Invite friends or make your new friends during the trip. America has so many beautiful and exciting places to see and you will remember it forever!

Larisa Fedarushchanka is a graduate of the Gomel State Medical Institute. Prior to beginning her Muskie Fellowship, Larisa worked at the Belarusian Medical Academy of Post-Graduate Education as an allergy and clinical immunology specialist, occupational health specialist and junior member of the Allergy and Occupational Health Department teaching staff. Larisa is studying Public Health at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, and will graduate in May 2013.

The Edmund S. Muskie Graduate Fellowship Program is administered by IREX and funded by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of State. In 2012, the Muskie Program celebrates 20 years of productive partnerships with leaders of Central Asia and Eastern Europe. Find more stories here.