Terah Kasozi from Uganda is getting an associate’s degree in music at Glendale Community College in California

Why did you decide to study in the USA? 

America uses a different academic system from Uganda.

Why did you choose this particular college or university? 

For three reasons: 1. The financial affordability and flexibility of the programs and schedules. 2. The location is great and in a quiet environment. 3. The reviews from friends and former students. 

What do you like best about your program or university? 

My professors are extremely intelligent and have an extended experience in the music industry. Many of them are actually active in the entertainment industry within the USA and on other continents. So, they know exactly what is going on in the industry currently. 

What do you miss most about home? 

I miss organic food, my family and true friends I grew up with, and relaxation. America is very high paced which is good but also strenuous sometimes when you want to take it easy in life, you don’t have the opportunity to relax here. 

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

Life is very fast paced, and the education is very competitive and expensive. If you do not choose schools wisely or if you choose the wrong program for you, you are setting yourself up for an unwanted debt. 

... your biggest disappointment? 

Cultural differences sometimes are a bit complex to deal with. But, for the most part, I honestly have no regrets.

How have you handled:


... language differences? 

I haven’t had any language issues or barriers in America since English is the official language back home. 

... finances? 

This can be a huge challenge, but luckily for me, it has been possible to find scholarship here and there to take care of school over the years for me. Also, sometimes I am able to push for payment plans depending on the situation. 

... adjusting to a different educational system? 

If you are willing to learn, you can adjust to any learning system. I think I started with the hardest learning system, which made this system easier for me to adjust.

What are your activities?

A few of us rent an apartment in Los Angeles away from the school, where each of us has their own private bedroom and a shared living room and kitchen.

I love the gym, swimming, the beach, and going camping with friends. I do photography and motion picture projects as a hobby. The International Students Club together with the International Students Office often take us to different parts of the state or country like trips to San Francisco among others. 

How easy or difficult is making friends in the USA? 

It is very easy for me to make friends. All you need to do is spend time with them, doing fun activities or study together and you are good to go. 

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 passionate about being my own boss, and I see myself running one of the most successful motion picture companies on the planet. Owning studios that will not only do films, documentaries, and photography but also music. So, studying music at Glendale Community College is basically polishing me for the final jump into my dream.

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

Never stop dreaming. Dreams do not come true easily, so whatever you do, do it as though it was your only shot.