Interview:

Bushra Alqahtani, from Saudi Arabia, studies Intensive English at Temple University in Philadelphia. She plans on using her English skills to earn a master’s degree.

Why did you decide to study in America?

I chose the USA. to study because the USA. has a lot of good universities. It is important for my life and I believe that the best education is in the United States.

How did you choose your intensive English program?

My friend advised me, “If you want to learn English, go to Temple.”

What do you like best about studying here?

I like the teachers and the students. They are all friendly and the teachers always help us.

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

I have been studying at Temple for seven months. My English is better. I speak better, but my writing still needs help. This program helps me think about the future and how to study for my master’s in the future.

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

Here there is more freedom and students ask a lot of questions.

... your biggest disappointment?

Having to wait for my master’s program. I thought I’d learn English so much faster!

How have you handled:
... language differences?

Sometimes I use my cell phone to translate words I don’t understand or ask a friend to translate for me.

... finances?

America is expensive. It can be difficult.

... adjusting to a different educational system?

I always go to class because I have to. Sometimes it’s hard because the teachers speak so fast.

What are your activities ?

I go on trips to different places every week in Philadelphia with the IELP (Intensive English Language Program). We go to museums, bowling, and the circus. It’s exciting.

How easy or difficult is making friends in the USA.?

On campus it is easy to make new friends with other Temple students. Sometimes, outside of the campus, it’s difficult.

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

I want to study human resources at a U.S. university. Learning English is important because it is a world language. Knowing English will help me with my future job.

What is your advice to other students from your country who are considering studying English in the USA.?

If you can come now, you should. I believe it is better to study a language earlier than later!