Flawerisa End from Indonesia is majoring in Business Administration at Irvine Valley College.

Why did you decide to study in the USA?

I decided to study in the USA because it has a very reputable education system.

Why did you choose this particular college or university? What attracted you about your school? Please mention such factors as location, reputation, courses offered. What is special about your school and its location?

Irvine Valley College is special for me because of the reputation and location. Irvine Valley College has the highest transfer rate in Orange County, and it is also very close to where I live.

What do you like best about your program or university?

What I like best about my program is that, the professors and staff are very nice and helpful. They make my learning experience worthwhile. I am also very satisfied with the resources that IVC has provided, such as the tutoring center. It makes it easier for me to study and do my assignments.

What do you miss most about home?

I miss my mom’s cooking most.

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

My biggest surprise was the first day of class. It was the first time that I have ever seen anyone wait listed or petitioning to get into a filled class. There were people standing because the seats were all taken.

... your biggest disappointment?

My biggest disappointment is that, I can’t go anywhere without a car. The roads are super long and big.            

How have you handled:

... language differences?

At first, it is super hard to listen and speak to a native speaker. I feel like everyone is talking very fast and difficult to understand. But after a while it gets better. Before, every time I tried to talk, I would have to translate it from Indonesian language to English in my mind. But now, everything just comes out as English for me.

... finances?

Living in US is very expensive. We pay a lot more for tuition and the dollar currency is also very high compared to indonesian currency.

... adjusting to a different educational system?

I think I adjusted pretty quickly. It is very fascinating to me that a lot of the homework is online on platforms such as canvas, mindtap, connect, aplia, etc.

What are your activities? (clubs, sports, student associations, travel, homestay programs, special activities or trips sponsored by your program)

I am currently participating in the International Students Club. I am the Dırector of Activities for the club. It is a lot of fun as I can meet many new people.

How easy or difficult is making friends in the USA?

I think it really depends on how much you’re interacting with people. If you are in a club, you will meet more people and can make more friends.

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

I am planning to be an accountant. The experience from studying in the US will surely be an asset for me when I go back to Indonesia.

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

Studying in the US is very fun and interesting. Everyone is very passionate in learning and it makes you want to learn more too. If you are interested in studying in US, here are some things that I would like to recommend. Make sure to visit the college counselors and register for your classes before the semester starts. Living expenses are expensive, so having roommates will help you with the cost. You might want to live around the school area, as it is easier to commute. If you are not sure on what to do for school related issues, as it is the first time for you, I would recommend that you schedule an appointment and meet with the college counselors. They are very nice and will help you tremendously.