Fabiha Khan from Pakistan

is studying Psychology at

MVCC

 

Why did you decide to study in the USA?

As someone studying psychology, I really wanted to be in an atmosphere where mental health is given the importance and attention it truly deserves, which is why I decided that the best place for it would be USA.

Why did you choose this particular college or university? What attracted you about your school?

I chose Mohawk Valley Community College (MVCC) for many reasons. the first would definitely be the diversity of the college as well as the city it is in which makse it a lot easier for an international student to find people and places that help them feel at home. Second would be the affordable education — MVCC has one of the lowest tuitions in New York state while making no compromises on the quality of education they provide. Third would be the fact that it has on campus housing which is a big benefit for an international student, it saves one from the hassle of finding off campus housing and dealing with unnecessary expenses. Lastly, the staff that I coordinated with were always incredibly warm and considerate towards me both before and after I became a student. All of these and many more such qualities are what made me choose Mohawk Valley Community College.

What do you like best about your program or university?

What I love about my college is the fact that the sizes of classrooms are comparatively smaller and professors constantly have time for students. They are very much involved in their students' success and give them their undivided attention.

What do you miss most about home?

I miss my family the most of course, the food, the comfort of my bedroom, and my mom’s warm smile.

What was your biggest surprise about U.S. life and education?

Coming from a culture where teachers are respected a lot and there is a significant distance between students and teachers, the friendly relationship people share with their teachers in USA was a pleasant surprise and made me enjoy my experience a lot more.

... your biggest disappointment?

Probably the fact that I didn’t prepare myself enough for how hectic college can be, and it took me a while to adjust to that pace but eventually I caught on. Another regret would be that I didn’t get more time on campus due to COVID-19 but I am hoping to be back on campus soon.

How have you handled language differences?

I have spoken and studied English almost all my life so conversations were never that hard for me and language differences did not bother me as much. But I would often find myself in a spot where I wouldn't be able to easily pour out my thoughts into words. In such situations, I would try and look up more words and work towards increasing my vocabulary

... finances?

Finances can often be an issue, especially when you come from a place with higher conversion rates, but things have been sailing smoothly thanks to my parents who are kind enough to fund my education. Whereas I have tried my best this past semester to get the best grades possible so that I can apply for scholarships as well.

... adjusting to a different educational system?

It was a nice change to finally not be required to learn things by rote and be running after ranks. The education system I came from is incredibly competitive, and things can get fierce and hard in order to get the best grade possible. You also are made to study subjects you may not have any interest in or may not even need for your future. The education system here though is based on what interests a student and what is required for their goal profession.