International Ambassadors
Garima Tyagi
India
Why did you choose the University of Idaho?
I guess the University of Idaho has chosen me. I was mainly interested in U of I because of its reputed programs with more affordable fees in comparison to other, at par universities. Of course, the world-class infrastructure, experienced professors and great co-op programs with other universities were other incentives. In addition, I got the opportunity to work as a Teaching Assistant in the first semester itself and that took care of my funding. Can’t ask for more!
What’s the best thing about the University of Idaho?
The first thing I noticed during my first campus visit was the friendly culture of the university as a whole. From the International Programs Office to department members to administration, everyone was very helpful. Being an international student makes it more necessary to be surrounded by concerned and kind people. This makes the transition easier. Also, U of I is located in one of the most beautiful small town settings I have ever seen. This makes it easy to concentrate on studies without getting distracted very often.
What are your favorite campus activities?
My favorite place to hang out on campus is our well-equipped library and, of course, the Idaho Student Union Building. Taking long walks in the Arboretum is also something I really enjoy.
What are your favorite local activities?
I love to roam around in the downtown and visit coffee shops. The local annual events are also something I always look forward to. Moreover, Idaho is known for its wilderness and scenic beauty. A long drive is all I need to freshen up!
What’s your favorite thing to do in Moscow, Idaho?
Moscow is a beautiful small town; still, it has everything one needs. Free bus service makes it easier to access any part of Moscow. I prefer hanging out in the Palouse Mall and trying new vegetarian dishes in Mexican restaurants.
What are your plans after you graduate?
I intend to gain some valuable work experience in the USA after my graduation.
Advice for new students?
Studies always comes first, but when we are abroad it is also necessary to be a part of the new culture. Make friends, participate actively in campus events, do some community service and appreciate the diversity. Also, stay connected with the International Programs Office - it will help you settle down with much more ease. Don’t be shy and you will never be lonely.
Seung Chae Ryu
South Korea
Why did you choose the University of Idaho?
I choose the University of Idaho because it has a strong field of engineering majors.
What’s the best thing about the University of Idaho?
The best thing about the University of Idaho is how the university provides high-quality lectures.
What are your favorite campus activities?
My favorite campus activity is movie night at the university.
What are your favorite local activities?
My favorite local activity is watching bands play.
What’s your favorite thing to do in Moscow, Idaho?
My favorite thing to do is spending time with all of my international friends.
What are your plans after you graduate?
I will try to get an internship in the United States, and try to get a job.
Advice for new students?
Moscow is pretty small town, and you might be disappointed at first. However, I can assure that you will never regret choosing to study in this town. People here are really kind and nice. Moreover, the university will help you find students who are interested in your country, and they will help to improve your English skills.
Nurainy Darono
Indonesia
Why did you choose the University of Idaho?
Because U of I has a good program for my major, and I received scholarships as well.
What's the best thing about the University of Idaho?
The campus. The University of Idaho has a green and beautiful campus that's located in a small, university town.
What are your favorite campus activities?
The University of Idaho has more than 200 clubs and organizations on campus. One club I am in is Circle K International, which is a volunteer organization on campus. My favorite activity is going to the volunteer events or doing fun projects.
What are your favorite local activities?
I am minoring in art, and in some classes I am required to go to the art galleries in Moscow. Beside going there for my assignments, I sometimes go there for fun and to learn more about the exhibitions and local artists.
What's your favorite thing to do in Moscow, Idaho?
I like downtown Moscow. I go to different restaurants to try different foods on the weekend. Moscow also has a farmers market every Saturday in the summer, which I often attend.
What are your plans after you graduate?
After I graduate, I'm planning to get an internship or possibly a job - it can be anywhere in the world. I want to get as much hands-on experience as I can.
Advice for new students?
You might experience some culture shock at your first time coming to a university in the U.S. The best thing to do is to be yourself, speak up, make friends at orientation and make the best experience of college. Moscow is a great town, and everyone is very friendly and helpful. Lastly, never be afraid to ask a question, because that's the key to be successful in college.
Khaled Alharshani
Kuwait
Why did you choose the University of Idaho?
Because it has a good engineering program, and my friend told me about University of Idaho.
What's the best thing about the University of Idaho?
I think the best thing here at the University of Idaho is making friends and learning things about people.
What are your favorite campus activities?
My favorite campus activity is Cruise the World because you can give people some information about your country and your culture.
What are your favorite local activities?
Gathering with my friends and playing soccer or volleyball.
What's your favorite thing to do in Moscow, Idaho?
Spending time getting to know new people from different countries.
What are your plans after you graduate?
Going back to my country and working there.
Advice for new students?
My advice for new students is to use their time to learn useful things that could help them in the future.
Xiaoyi Liu
China
Why did you choose the University of Idaho?
The education is good and it is in a small town, which I really like.
What's the best thing about the University of Idaho?
The people here are friendly and I gain a lot of knowledge.
What are your favorite campus activities?
Any of the 200+ clubs that are offered at the University of Idaho.
What are your favorite local activities?
The Thanksgiving dinner event that is held every year in the Bruce M. Pitman Center.
What's your favorite thing to do in Moscow, Idaho?
Seeing the beautiful views.
What are your plans after you graduate?
I will study for my master's degree and try to find a job in the field of architecture.
Advice for new students?
Learn more and ask more.
Xinran Ye
China
Why did you choose the University of Idaho?
Various campus activities provide a lot of chances for international students to explore American culture. Also, I like to live in a small town, which is quiet and good for a studious life.
What’s the best thing about the University of Idaho?
Good quality education, but with affordable tuition.
What are your favorite campus activities?
I like the sporting events held on campus such as basketball games.
What are your favorite local activities?
Let's explore Moscow together!
What’s your favorite thing to do in Moscow, Idaho?
I like the farmers market on Saturday. There is all kinds of food, and the market always remind me of the markets in my country.
What are your plans after you graduate?
I plan to find a job and work here around two to three years, and then go back to China.
Advice for new students?
Don't forget to do homework, and everyone needs to make a good schedule. For international students, try to solve the problems by yourself first and then seek out help.
Chin-Lun Hsu
Taiwan
Why did you choose the University of Idaho?
Before I applied, I looked up some information about U of I saying that it is the best place to study, which is my main purpose in studying abroad.
What's the best thing about the University of Idaho?
The school is small, and so are the classes. That is the benefit to me since every instructor knows me very well and helps me a lot with my studies.
What are your favorite campus activities?
Cruise the World is one of my favorite activities. There are always people from different countries and I've known a lot of friends in that event. Jazz Festival is also a favorite activity. It's not just about sitting and listening to the music, but people even dance in front of the stage. It is so much fun.
What are your favorite local activities?
I love the farmers market the most. There is not only a variety of food to eat but also some handmade stuff and bands perform in front of the small park.
What's your favorite thing to do in Moscow, Idaho?
I love having a meal at the restaurants with friends and sitting in their outdoor seats. It's good to eat while enjoying the beautiful view around you.
What are your plans after you graduate?
I would like to go back home and find a PR-related job in Taiwan or in another country near Taiwan.
Advice for new students?
U of I is a really good place to study and also have fun. Moscow is small but as long as you find something that interests you, you will never get bored here. Also, U of I has international students from 78 countries, so it is a good opportunity to make different kinds of friends here.
Abdulmajeed Alotaibi
Saudi Arabia
Why did you choose the University of Idaho?
I was looking for a university to apply to, and my friend advised me to apply here.
What’s the best thing about the University of Idaho?
The campus design is really good because most the buildings are near each other and you will not have any problem getting to class on time, even if you have just 10 minutes between class.
What are your favorite campus activities?
I like to go to the Rec Center once in awhile, or sit around and watch students. Sometimes I see students playing games like Humans vs Zombies or scatting.
What are your favorite local activities?
I like to go out with my friends to downtown Moscow, attend the farmers market and go ice skating.
What’s your favorite thing to do in Moscow, Idaho?
I like to go to watch the football games, join IPO trips, join some concerts and play soccer with my friends.
What are your plans after you graduate?
Go back to my home and find a job to build the future I want for myself.
Advice for new students?
Moscow is small town but you will love it because there are other cities close to it and you can go there anytime you want, like Seattle, Boise, Spokane, Lewiston and Portland.
Arturo Quintero Ferrer
Mexico
Why did you choose the University of Idaho?
I have chosen the University of Idaho due to its amazing program and educational environment.
What’s the best thing about the University of Idaho?
The best thing about the University of Idaho is the faculty and staff.
What are your favorite campus activities?
My favorite campus activity is visiting the arboretum.
What are your favorite local activities?
My favorite local activity is shopping.
What’s your favorite thing to do in Moscow, Idaho?
My favorite thing to do is go to the farmers market.
What are your plans after you graduate?
I will do research.
Advice for new students?
Study hard and live harder.
Fiasal Alahmadi
Saudi Arabia
Why did you choose the University of Idaho?
I started by taking a non-degree summer class. I loved both the area and the mechanical engineering program so I transferred.
What’s the best thing about the University of Idaho?
The best thing about the University of Idaho is the professional staff who help create a fun and educational environment.
What are your favorite campus activities?
Soccer, the Rec Center and Cruise the World.
What are your favorite local activities?
Camping and fishing.
What’s your favorite thing to do in Moscow, Idaho?
Outdoor activities and barbecue.
What are your plans after you graduate?
Heading back home with knowledge I gain from this experience.
Advice for new students?
Get involved and communicate.
Yunyi Zhang
China
Why did you choose the University of Idaho?
I chose U of I because it has a great study environment, Moscow is a college town, and basically you can do all the things you want and meet all the friends you want to make.
What's the best thing about the University of Idaho?
American-style college life, and you will melt into college easily.
What are your favorite campus activities?
My favorite is to join in as many activities as I can to meet new friends and have a lot of fun!
What are your favorite local activities?
Traveling with all of my friends.
What's your favorite thing to do in Moscow, Idaho?
Go to restaurants, the movie theater and attending parties.
What are your plans after you graduate?
I am going to attend graduate school on the East Coast.
Advice for new students?
Study hard, play hard!
Shuai Li
China
Why did you choose the University of Idaho?
The University of Idaho is located in Moscow, Idaho, a beautiful college town with lots of state reservoirs and wildlife around. It doesn't matter if it's winter or summer, there are always outdoor sports opportunities for people to enjoy. Academically, the University of Idaho is the school of the state of Idaho and it provides great professional educations as well as decent financial support for students like me. It is the right place to learn, to live and to play.
What’s the best thing about the University of Idaho?
Beautiful university, amazing university culture and history.
What are your favorite campus activities?
The world-famous Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival and the Dancers Drummers Dreamers performance.
What are your favorite local activities?
Summer/Fall: hiking, camping, outdoor adventures/traveling.
Winter: snow sports up in the mountains.
What’s your favorite thing to do in Moscow, Idaho?
The farmers market and swing dancing.
What are your plans after you graduate?
Post-doctorate.
Advice for new students?
Enjoy the beautiful area and the school itself and build your friendship around your major and your learning community. Keep developing your interpersonal skills and professional skills. Keep in mind that you don't choose a template for how to live as a student - you develop one of your own.
Thao Thi-Thu Nguyen
Vietnam
Why did you choose the University of Idaho?
The University of Idaho is consistently recognized as one of the best public colleges in America by The Princeton Review. Washington Monthly magazine’s College Guide again this year ranked the University of Idaho among the top 100 national universities for social mobility, research and service. The university offers 124 degree programs including bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and specialists' degrees. Besides that, there are many scholarship opportunities for national and international students. The University of Idaho also provides and a wide range of leadership programs and helpful community services.
What's the best thing about the University of Idaho?
For me, scholarship opportunity is the best thing about the University of Idaho. With GPA of 3.6 or higher transferred from Highline Community College, I got equivalently 50 percent deduction in my tuition and fees every year at this university, while maintaining 3.0 U of I GPA. This is a wonderful encouragement both physically and mentally for international and national students to keep up good work.
What are your favorite campus activities?
I love participating in leadership programs, conferences and volunteering on campus. With those activities, I can build up my resume, my personality, my leadership skills and also expand my network with many instructors, staffs and students on campus.
What are your favorite local activities?
I love volunteering in community services such as Painting the Palouse, food bank preparation and landscape. All students can easily sign up and join these helpful activities by contacting U of I's Center for Volunteerism and Social Action. Students can also get free T-shirt, certificates and free breakfast when joining them. This is a great opportunity to meet, experience and share your time with other people and organization, on and out of campus.
What's your favorite thing to do in Moscow, Idaho?
It is going to farmers market at Friendship Square. It is held each Saturday, May through October, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. They sell fresh produce, meat, delicious homemade baked goods, healthy nursery plants, beautiful flowers and quality handmade crafts.
What are your plans after you graduate?
After getting my bachelor's degree in Accountancy in May 2014, I am now working on my master's degree. After that, I will find jobs in accounting areas in the U.S. to gain more experience before going back to Vietnam.
Advice for new students?
There is only one thing I could say: Never say never. Don’t be afraid, shy or have an inferiority complex. You will never know your strengths and weaknesses when you don’t even want to try something new. Everyone fails and makes mistakes in school, jobs and life, but there is a lot to gain after that. It's much better to make a mistake than never trying to do anything.
Chi Sun
China
Why did you choose the University of Idaho?
Promising research projects with excellent tuition.
What’s the best thing about the University of Idaho?
I enjoy that Moscow is quiet and I also enjoy my research.
What are your favorite campus activities?
Soccer team.
What are your favorite local activities?
Shopping at the Moscow Co-op for fresh food.
What’s your favorite thing to do in Moscow, Idaho?
Enjoy my research and eating local food.
What are your plans after you graduate?
Post-doctorate.
Advice for new students?
It is time to study wisely.
Junji Chen
China
Why did you choose the University of Idaho?
Because of the blue skies and green grass in Moscow, and the campus presents a safe and comfortable academic atmosphere.
What are your favorite local activities?
Saturday morning farmers market.
What's your favorite thing to do in Moscow, Idaho?
Taste the delicious steaks at Applebees!
What are your plans after you graduate?
Establish my own business with friends.
Advice for new students?
Be responsible for every step you make, and keep fighting!