Quan Nguyen, from Vietnam, is majoring in Computer Science at Truckee Meadow Community College

Why did you decide to study in the USA?

Studying abroad in the USA has been a dream not just for me but for many in my home country. It is the place I could fully develop myself not just in the academic field but also my social life. I have the opportunity to encounter many other cultures, learn more about those and even make unforgettable friendships with people all around the globe. 

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?



I choose TMCC for many reasons. First of all, the tuition fee is not too expensive for an international student like me but still provides all necessary facilities. From what I have seen online, reviews for professors here are excellent, and they are all willing to help you whenever you have problems in your study. Courses here are wide-range of choices, from nursing and culinary arts to STEM majors, such as my own – computer science. And the last but not least, the location of TMCC. Lying on the mountain, the weather is so nice and cool, and I have been able to see breath-taking scenery of mountain ranges. Furthermore, it is also safe for students since it’s not near the downtown or crowded places. 

What do you like best about your program or university?

The thing I like most about TMCC is the people. People here are really nice, from friends to professors and even the staff. They are willing to help you if you ever have troubles in your study and your social life. 

What do you miss most about home?

To be honest, I miss Vietnamese food

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

My biggest surprise about U.S life is what they usually say after you just sneeze “Bless you”, however it soon become a habit of mine. 

... your biggest disappointment?

I don’t have any disappointment. 

How have you handled:

... language differences?

It was lucky for myself that I have chances practicing English and also researching about the culture here when I was back in my home country so it is not so difficult for me to handle the language differences. 

... finances?

Currently, my parents are paying for my tuition fee. Lucky for me, I was able to find a on-campus job. My parents don’t have to pay anything else for me beside the tuition fee.

... adjusting to a different educational system?

For me, I have to learn how to manage my time. As I see, deadline is crucial for the US educational system. That is why I tend to finish my homework as soon as possible.

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

Since I am a bit busy, I can’t really stay for international club at TMCC. However, I still join some of their activities like one time, they made a trip for students to go to the pumpkin patch farm, It was a unforgettable experience for me and I also made more new friends. 

How easy or difficult is making friends in the USA?

For me, it was easier than I expected. All you have to do is be active, open your heart and they will come to you. 

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

Computer Science at TMCC is the first step in my career path. My goal is to have a master’s degree in Cybersecurity major. Every year, there are billion of dollars loss due to cyber-crime. And the needs for cybersecurity also increase which open a great job opportunity for me and I want to protect not just my family but also my country from those cyber-threats.

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

My advice for Vietnamese students who want to study in the U.S is be active. It is always nice to be active, participate in school’s activities, be friend with others. And of course, don’t forget your main goal is to study, try your best to get good grade but don’t forget to enjoy other things as well beside the academic.