What does it really take to succeed as an international student in the United States?

How do you make friends, build confidence, find your community, transfer to a top university, and turn your goals into reality? That's exactly why Edmonds College created Unpacked: The OIP Podcast — a space where real students, alumni, and campus leaders share their authentic experiences studying in the United States. 

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Unpacked: The OIP Podcast

Unpacked: The Podcast Giving Future International Students a Real Look at College Life

Through honest conversations and inspiring stories, you'll hear firsthand what it's like to navigate life as an international student—from your first days on campus to building friendships, finding your community, transferring to a university, and pursuing your future goals.

Hear From Students Who've Been in Your Shoes

Every episode takes you behind the scenes of international student life at Edmonds College.

You'll hear from students who once sat exactly where you are now—dreaming about studying abroad, navigating uncertainty, and wondering if they belonged.

From first impressions and culture shock to finding community, transferring to top universities, and building a future career, the podcast dives into the moments that shape the international student journey.

Because sometimes the advice that matters most doesn't come from a brochure—it comes from someone who's lived it.

Episode 1: First Impressions

What is it really like to arrive in the United States for the first time? Current student and OIP Marketing Assistant Vincent Nguyen shares his experience adjusting to life at Edmonds College and navigating those important first weeks abroad.

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Episode 2: Belonging

Finding your place on campus can make all the difference. Recent graduate and former Student Government Executive Officer for Administration Ruth Nakigozi discusses how she built community, discovered opportunities, and found a sense of belonging at Edmonds College.

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Episode 3: Advising

Starting college in a new country comes with questions. Advisor Aimee Jiang shares practical tips, guidance, and insider advice to help students navigate academic life and make the most of their experience.

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Episode 4: Social Life

What happens outside the classroom? Alum Abby Perez talks about clubs, campus events, local adventures, and how international students can create meaningful friendships, connections, and memories.

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Episode 5: Bachelor's Degree

Did you know Edmonds College offers bachelor's degree programs? Learn about the BS/BAS pathways, hands-on learning opportunities, and how students can prepare for successful careers after graduation.

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Episode 6: Transferring to the University of Washington

For many international students, transferring to a top university is a major goal. Current University of Washington student Nini Kvashilava shares her transfer journey, Husky experience, and advice for students pursuing the same dream.

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Episode 7: President

In this special episode, Edmonds College President Dr. Amit Singh reflects on his own experience as an international student and how that journey influenced the leader he is today. From his personal story to his vision for student success, Dr. Singh's episode demonstrates something every student should hear:

Your international experience can become one of your greatest strengths.

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Episode 8: Goals

One of the podcast's most inspiring episodes features Edmonds College Student Trustee Kayla Ghita Linadi from Indonesia. Kayla shares how she pursued her ambitions, stepped outside her comfort zone, embraced leadership opportunities, and made a lasting impact on campus.

It's a reminder that international students don't just attend Edmonds College—they lead, inspire, and help shape the community.

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Episode 9: Housing

Moving to a new country means learning how to navigate a new living environment. Housing staff members Cathy Mae and Danika unpack everything students need to know about residence life, on-campus housing, and building a vibrant community.

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For Students Dreaming Bigger

Whether your goal is to transfer to a university, launch a career, make lifelong friendships, or simply discover who you are, Unpacked offers insights, encouragement, and inspiration from people who have already taken the leap.

You'll hear stories about:

• Building confidence in a new country
• Finding your community on campus
• Navigating academic challenges
• Exploring career opportunities
• Creating a life beyond the classroom
• Turning dreams into reality

Your Future Might Sound Like This

The students featured on Unpacked aren't celebrities or influencers.

They're future engineers, filmmakers, entrepreneurs, designers, educators, healthcare professionals, and changemakers.

They're students who started with questions and uncertainty—and found opportunities they never imagined.

And your story could be next.

Start Listening 🎧

If you're considering studying in the United States, this podcast is more than entertainment—it's a glimpse into what's possible.

Tune in to Unpacked: The OIP Podcast on Spotify and hear firsthand how international students are building friendships, finding purpose, and creating futures that reach far beyond the classroom.

Because every big journey starts with a single story—and yours might be just getting started.