Interview:

Jackeline Yagual from Ecuador studied English in the Intensive English Program at the University of Southern Indiana in Evansville, Indiana.

Why did you decide to study in the USA?

Because I want to be a successful professional and study in a developed country can guarantee a successful career.

Why did you choose the Intensive English Program at University of Southern Indiana (USI)?

First of all, the location is ideal to learn English. When you want to learn a new language you have to think of a special place where you can share time with real citizens. USI has a low rate of Spanish-speaking immigrants, so I have to talk in English. Second, this is a multicultural university in which I can have the opportunity to interact with people from many countries and share experiences, customs and ideologies. Therefore, you not only learn a language and subject, but also, you learn about cultures and how to be a potential leader. Third, Evansville is a safe city with very good weather and full of nature. It’s a perfect place to study, focus and make good friends.

What do you like best?

I love every aspect of study at University of Southern Indiana and America: the infrastructure, the teacher's engagement and the technology is state-of-the art. And socially, all the multicultural exchange is enriching my knowledge. I developed skills that help me to be more organized, responsible and comprehensible person. All of the experience I have here is making me a better person for society.

What do you miss most?

Sometimes I feel homesick. I miss my family in Ecuador, but it is something that I can handle. As an ambitious student, I have to go beyond my comfort zone.

How has this program helped you to handle future study at a U.S. university?

I finished my English as a second language program last semester and now I am at the University. My English has improved a lot. When I came here I had a vague knowledge of English, but study in the English program and being able to interact with native speakers in the conversation circle made me develop my skills faster. I became more organized, learned a lot of vocabulary—that is also related to my major—and I improved my grammar. I still make mistakes, but I am learning.

How have you handled:

... language differences?

You learn how to say things in different ways. That is what you learn in the English program.

... finances?

This is something that can make you think that you will be stuck, however, there are many ways of getting loans in your home country and potential scholarships that can help you to pay for your higher education. I have to manage my budget and I always try not to waste money on unnecessary things. I also will try to get scholarships from the university.

What are your activities?

I joined some activities with the international club like trips around U.S., culture nights, picnics and more. Additionally, I am part of the conversation club, and during my IEP program I attended extra classes with native speakers.

How easy or difficult was making friends?

Making friends is the easiest part of study abroad. You can meet people from the bottom to the top of the world. Also, because you are an international student people will be interested to learn about your culture. I met not only good friends, but also people that I can call sisters and brothers.

How relevant is your U.S. education to your personal goals and to the needs of your country? 

I want to study neuroscience and a minor in cognitive science to help people with mental and physical disabilities. I came to USA with the hope to study my career.

What is your advice to other students who are considering a U.S. education?

If you want to have a better higher education “GO FOR IT,” make your dreams come true and don't let your fears stop you. You will regret it if you don’t do anything to follow your dreams.