Andreas Kalomiris from Germany: Pursuing a University Transfer Degree at Foothill College

Interview:

An interview with Andreas Kalomiris, from Germany, who is finishing General Education/Majoring in Business at Foothill College in Los Altos Hills, California.

Why did you decide to study in the America?

I want to eventually get my MBA and the programs in U.S.A. are much better than they are in Europe.

How did you choose your college?

I like San Francisco, it’s a very European city, and the whole area is very international. Foothill College is on a quarter system (important for me to save time). Besides, the alliance between Foothill College and Santa Clara University and San Jose State University is very important to me for future plans.

What do you like best?

The campus is very green with nice buildings and it’s not at all sterile. Also there are a lot of international students.

What do you miss most?

Fresh milk

What was your biggest surprise?

Most surprising for me was that there is graded homework at college level education.

...your biggest disappointment?

The major troubles I ran into to get credit for my studies in Europe because I had already taken college level courses in Europe. The process of evaluation of credits is complicated.

How have you handled: ...Language differences?

I have not had many language difficulties as my English skills are fairly good.

...Finances?

I have a financial sponsor living in the U.S.A.

...Adjusting to a different educational system?

The only thing that I have had to adjust to is handing in regular homework assignments.

What are your activities?

Although Foothill College offers numerous possibilities for all kinds of activities like clubs and student government, I do not much time for activities since I am taking a lot of classes and doing a lot of studying. Outside of school, I try to stay in shape, do weight training, bicycling and swimming.

How easy or difficult is making friends?

Making friends is very easy and I have the opportunity to make friends from different cultures. The atmosphere at Foothill College is very good and pleasant.

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

A career in Business/Marketing in a big High-Tech company. A MBA is very helpful to achieve that goal. The reputation of an American Master’s Degree is very good in Europe.

What is your advice to other students?

Gather a lot of information; apply early to several schools; have translation and transcripts of their certificates evaluated to be able to get credit for any earlier studies.

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