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Meet Our Students

ChalakshiMadawala

Chalakshi Madawala

Country: Sri Lanka

Major(s): Mass Communication

Minor(s): German and Travel & Tourism

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Attending St. Cloud State University was the best choice I've ever made. I have always had a desire to study communication and to learn many languages. It became clear that I should pursue those endeavors somewhere that embraced diversity and could provide a cutting–edge academic field in Communication. SCSU accomplished more than just that for me. By attending SCSU it has opened up many doors for me and exposed me to a wide world of opportunities. Through the partnership between St. Cloud State University and the University Katholische Universitatt Eichstaat, I am taking advantage of the opportunity to study abroad in Germany in order to gain many cultural experiences, for which I will be eternally grateful. Studying abroad was the best decision I have ever made and I would urge other international students to come to St. Cloud State University. Go Huskies!

Evelyne

Evelyne Benie

Country: Ivory Coast (Cote d' Ivoire)

Major(s): Graduated with a master's degree in Applied Economics

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While a few of my friends were paying thousands of dollars for their first semester in other states, I was paying the same amount for my whole academic year to receive a similar, high - quality academic learning experience. All my gratitude goes to the Academic and Cultural Sharing Scholarship which allows International students to pay the in-state tuition rate.

In order to maintain the Academic and Cultural Sharing scholarship, I had to participate in at least two events where I had the chance to share and embrace my origins with others. Most importantly I was able to make a difference in the Saint Cloud State campus and the Saint Cloud community through my involvement in different cultural and social activities.

At SCSU, my professors armed me with a great amount of business and social knowledge to become assertive and intellectually-prepared in this challenging world – economy. Their expertise, flexibility, and support helped me to pursue my research interests and to span a broad range of careers possibilities.

The administrative staff are a great support system to the students. Make sure to acquaint yourself with the CIS staff because they are your go-to service staff.

Here are three pieces of advice I have for prospective or current students:

1) Go out of your comfort zone to be involved in campus life.

2) Try to make friends from any shape of life (SCSU is diverse in terms of its demography and social beliefs).

3) Especially, make sure to study hard just like you play hard!

SCSU has many pleasant surprises; so come here to find yours. Good luck!

Jasmine

Jasmine Hui Shin Teh

Country: Malaysia

Major(s): Early Childhood Education and Psychology 

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Choosing where to study and what courses to enroll in are vital decisions in life and which make an enormous difference to our future. I chose St. Cloud State University because of the excellent early childhood education licensure program. The program is rich in theory and balanced through practical application, which prepares me to meet the demands and challenges of a dynamic teaching career. Besides the content knowledge and pedagogical coursework, the small class size with dedicated professors who have real-world experience creates an excellent and conducive learning environment for me.

Of course, university isn't all about study. It's also about making new friends, enjoying new experiences, and learning about other cultures.  I personally have benefited a lot from the International Friendship Program. The International Friendship Program is a friendship exchange between the local community and international students and scholars from SCSU. Becoming involved with the International Friendship Program (IFP) since 2009 has been wonderful and is probably one of the best things I decided to do during my studies in the United States. This program has paired me with a local family, who I see as part of my family now. We have been doing things together, from everyday activities such as grocery shopping, playing, and baking to special events such as Christmas programs, Easter celebrations and birthdays.  

I could go on and on about my experience of being part of SCSU but it won't be realistic or relevant to you until you become part of the community. So, please wait no longer and apply to be part of our SCSU community. 
Chunyang

Chunyang Huang

Country: Taiwan

Major(s): Communication Sciences and Disorders

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I still remember how excited I was when I opened the admission letter from St. Cloud State University. As a second year graduate student in Communication Sciences and Disorders, I can testify that the same excitement remains today as strong as that moment. St. Cloud is a mid-size city with almost everything a college student would ever need; not to mention the campus is located right in the heart of the downtown area and along the Mighty Mississippi. You are guaranteed to fall in love with St. Cloud State whether you are a city goer or nature lover.

The education quality that my graduate program provides is top notch. Every class consists of about 12-15 students, which equals more discussion with my classmates and more attention from my professors. I believe the familial type of environment promotes better learning results. The Speech-Language and Hearing Clinic on campus has the most current resources and professional faculty who prepare me to be a successful clinician. What’s more, internship opportunities in all kinds of educational and medical settings are set up upon the completion of academic coursework. 

I started to understand why people say, “The sky is the limit” after becoming one of the Huskies. Every day is an adventure. I enjoy the welcoming, the vibe, and the comfiness, not to mention the “Minnesota nice” here. Come experience it!

Nguyen

Nguyen Pham

Country: Vietnam

Major(s): Higher Education Administration - Graduate Program

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St. Cloud State University has proven to be a tradition of excellence and opportunity. As a scholar of the Fulbright Program, I cared about an academic environment in which I could engage, expose, and develop the best of my professional capacities. St. Cloud State University has offered and challenged me with professional workshop presentations, student research activities, newsletter articles, research projects with faculty, and so on. Just after a year, I could see myself growing significantly in the profession and research.

A friend of mine, who is taking his master program at a well-known university in the States said, “I can be proud of the name of my university because people around the world can easily recognize it. However, it is a waste of my time to be here since professors are crazily busy and do not care much of their teaching. Even worse, they are never available for me when I need help with studies out of class”. It’s been a satisfaction for me to work with the professors, especially the academic advisor at St. Cloud State University.

More than what I expected, the academic advisor is always available, devoted, and patient, supporting me both professionally and psychologically throughout the year. The excellent service and on-going care-taking of the Center for International Studies, which is not of less importance to the international students’ life, has smoothly accommodated all of my paper work procedures ever since I first arrived.

Margaret

Margaret A Hailemariam

Country: Ethiopia

Major(s): Electrical Engineering

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The most crucial point of one’s life is the time when he/she decides where to attend college. A university that is ready to reach out to its students individually and help them walk through college, in my opinion is highly qualified. St. Cloud State University has given me more than what I had anticipated in that regard.

With the Academic and Cultural Sharing Scholarship, which allows international students to pay in-state tuition, I have benefited academically, culturally, and most importantly, I have grown in many aspects. My classes are enjoyable, my involvements in different organizations have given me recognition in the school, and my interactions with professors have helped me improve intellectually. I have become international in just a 100-acre campus.

So come, and join the international students in St. Cloud State University. You will not regret it!
Muhammad

Muhammad Tahir Khan

Country: Pakistan

Major(s): Biotechnology

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Well... This is my first semester here. This semester I think will be itself really different from the others for me. Because I am an exchange student from Pakistan and this is my first semester in St. Cloud, I am going to get new experiences and a fresh exposure among new people in a totally different environment and culture. I am already in love with St. Cloud so I am so excited to get ready for the upcoming events. I already joined two such organizations and I am going to join more during the Mainstreet events. To make this semester different I applied for a senate seat in the student government and I am already attending meetings of different student organizations.

I have a lot of opportunities here, better labs and better-equipped class rooms. These facilities are going to make my studies really easy and better. To make good use of all these opportunities in studies I registered the courses which can help me in my research. And I also selected a research project too, so that I may get maximum returns from the well-equipped labs here at SCSU.  Furthermore I am determined to get involved in volunteer activities and different organizations. Of course then I will have a chance to communicate and socialize better. And that's what I want. So this semester will be really different from the rest. 

I will take part in recreational activities and different sports too. I have already made many good friends even in the initial days at St. Cloud.  I think I am going to have a memorable time here. And I am committed to make these moments memorable.
Thanh

Thanh Dao Thi Minh

Country: Vietnam

Major(s): Finance

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If you never try, you will never know.  That is all I can tell you. Come to St Cloud State University and enjoy the experience of becoming a student in the U.S. With a large number of students, SCSU creates the best conditions for everyone!

SCSU always has a lot of activities that will never leave you bored. Any activities, any clubs you want to join, you can find them here. SCSU gives you every tool necessary to help you do well in study not only now but also in the future. The people are wonderful, the professors are discerning, and the memories you make here are forever. I can never imagine choosing somewhere other than SCSU. I have never made a better decision in my life.

Thanh

Trang Phung

Country: Vietnam

Major(s): Accounting

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I chose St. Cloud State University for my studies because I was awarded the Academic and Cultural scholarship which saves me a lot of money.  Moreover, Vietnamese students in St. Cloud State University organize a Culture Night every year which I am really interested in.

In my country, it is always a problem for students to talk to their teachers but, at St. Cloud State University, all the professors are very friendly and helpful. Whenever I have problems with textbooks and my homework, they always try their best to help me.

Besides, SCSU has a lot of clubs that I can join. St. Cloud State University is a great college for every student, especially international students. I am planning to earn my Bachelor’s degree in Accounting at SCSU. After that, I will go for my Master of Business Administration degree at SCSU.  SCSU is a great college. Come join us!!

Quyen Tran

Quyen Tran

Country: Vietnam

Major(s): Finance

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Inexpensive is the first reason why I chose SCSU among so many other colleges and universities in the United States. When accepted to SCSU, international students have the opportunity to receive the Academic and Cultural Sharing scholarship. Now that I am at SCSU, I also realize that SCSU is a great university that welcomes new students, especially international students.

I thought that college was a big environment and no one would have enough time for so many new students, but I have changed my mind. There are a lot of advisors who will help students anytime and anywhere, all I need to do is just ask questions. I used to be afraid to meet with professors and ask them questions but once I did, I realized that professors would try their best to help their students.

On the other hand, there are hundreds of organizations and clubs that students can attend to make friends and maintain the Academic and Cultural Sharing Scholarship. I’m currently in an organization which is my country’s cultural organization and there are a lot of interesting activities to do. I’m so glad to be a member of the SCSU community.

Jason Tham

Jason Tham

Country: Malaysia

Major(s): Mass Communications

Minor(s): Communication Studies and Psychology

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I appreciate all the opportunities here at St. Cloud State University that have allowed me to translate my classroom lessons into hands-on experience. As the Opinions Editor at the student-run weekly newspaper, I get to practice my writing and copy editing skills while experiencing how a newspaper functions.

Besides, I also get practical training through my employment as a student designer with the Learning Resources Services (LRS).  In the LRS I learn how to collaborate with different staff members within the department while building a decent portfolio from the tasks assigned to me on a daily basis. Though studies are deemed priority, I think getting your hands on some “real jobs” is ultimately most helpful in preparing you for the real world. At St. Cloud State, the possibilities are endless.

Koni Pare

Koni Pare

Country: Burkina Faso

Major(s): Information Systems

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As a Chinese Proverb states, “Tell me and I’ll forget; show me and I may remember; involve me and I’ll understand.” Saint Cloud State is all about involvement, not only from a classroom standpoint but also from other activities. Their extra-curricular activities are very diverse and offer a quality experience. Every day there is something going on from cultural events that broaden students’ cultural exposure, to career fairs, guest speakers, and mock interviews which prepare students to be marketable potential employees.

The professors here offer guidance and empower you, as the student, to be the master of your full learning experience. This has been extremely beneficial for me as I feel that my mind has been expanded. All these privileges are offered at an unbelievable and affordable price. International students are automatically awarded a cultural and sharing scholarship that enables them to only pay the instate tuition. That is a big money saver!

On top of that benefit, you get to share your culture through cultural cafes and learn from other ones as well. During a cultural café students introduce their cultural background by inviting people to share in their native food. Such activities make you feel appreciated and integrated in the community. No matter what you are interested in, Saint Cloud State University is a great place to gain new experiences and enhance your old ones.

Tan Jia Ji

Tan Jia Ji

Country: Malaysia

Major(s): Finance

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Attending St. Cloud State University was one of my best choices I ever made in my life. When I first arrived at St. Cloud State, I attended the orientation for new international students. Everyone was friendly and helpful. Senior students would volunteer to help out the new students. They kindly gave us a tour around the campus and explained what we have to do as a new student. We had dinner and some games at night. I think that was a very warm welcome for new students that just arrived at St. Cloud. It helped those of us who were new international students to feel comfortable.  We didn’t feel lost or lonely even though we had just arrived.

Faculty and staff of St. Cloud State are very helpful and friendly to international students. I have had fun all the years I’ve been here. I do get a lot of help and I have learned a lot from the students and staff at St. Cloud State.

EeYang Chow

EeYang Chow

Country: Malaysia

Major(s): Finance

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My first step into SCSU was in the fall of 2009. Everything here looked wonderful to me. Before leaving my home country of Malaysia, I had feelings ranging from being lonely, to depressed, to feelings of home sickness; but upon arrival I was greeted with a warm welcome. Everyone here at SCSU is very pleasant, helpful, and amazing.

The very first day of school I made lots of friends from many different countries. I never had many friends from different countries before I came here. SCSU gave me this opportunity to meet people from around the world, learn their culture, listen to their language, and interact with them. How often can you make friends with people from a different country, different culture, and different language?

I must say coming to SCSU, which is a very diversified university, may provide you this golden opportunity to make not just new friends but friends from the other parts of the world that you never thought you might meet. 

D. Venushika Gunawardane

D.Venushika Gunawardane

Country:Sri Lanka

Major(s): Electrical Engineering

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Coming to St. Cloud State University to obtain my degree in Electrical Engineering was one of the best choices I have ever made. The ECE department has highly qualified professors and they are always willing to help students in every minute. Do you know any professor who stays late, after hours, to help your project?  Well, SCSU ECE Department Professors do!!! There are a variety of courses offered each semester and so many paths to choose from. The final projects are highlights of the whole four year degree. Mostly the final projects are funded by companies outside SCSU. Working with real employers during your school year always gives you much confidence when you graduate and look for jobs. The new ISELF Engineering Department will have all the equipment and students will be able to experience more hands-on projects than before.

There are clubs for Engineering students and different clubs and societies for different schools. All these clubs work together for the STEM events. (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math).  These events are nationwide. It’s always good to join a society or a club, because I personally believe it helps you to interact with students and faculty more in different activities other than studying in a classroom.

Coming to the USA and coming to SCSU changed my life for who I am today.  The experiences I gained from SCSU are numerous. Being nominated for the Student Employee of the Year award and being the Vice President for Engineering Society gave me much more confidence and strength. It also gave me the rare opportunity to meet with higher level employers from all over the USA.

Moreover, the well-qualified staff in the Center for International Studies (CIS) office is always willing to help you in every need.  The advisory committee always checks the student’s status in guiding you through every situation you face. The ACSS scholarship is a real help for international students.  ACSS always gave me opportunities to interact with students from all over the world and learn about different cultures.

I am glad I came to SCSU to pursue my higher education. The experience and the quality of education I got from SCSU are endless. As they always say, “SCSU is full of surprises.  You have to come here to experience the life for real.”
Li Chen

Li Chen

Country: People’s Republic of China

Major(s): Marketing and Management

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St. Cloud State University helps me explore my learning potentials. I am grateful for all the valuable experience I have attained from my four years of studying at SCSU. Studying abroad can be costly, but SCSU offers international students the in-state tuition rate as long as they are qualified to have the Academic and Cultural Sharing Scholarship.

I seize and enjoy the opportunities of involving different cultural activities while being able to maintain my scholarship status. Traveling is expensive, but SCSU gives me the chances to explore multiple cultures on campus without spending a dime! Interacting with people from different cultures and volunteering in multiple culture night events widened my vision of the world substantially.  

SCSU creates a friendly environment for new students from foreign countries. Whenever I encounter any problems, staff from the Center of International Studies will either provide me with a solution or point me in the right direction to solve the problem. Fellow students are nice and friendly; they will help you out with any difficulties you might face as a newcomer to the United States.  

I truly recommend SCSU to all the international students who are currently considering studying in the United States. Come and discover your potential while studying in SCSU!

Mikiyas Fitawok Belay

Mikiyas Fitawok Belay

Country: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Major(s): Biotechnology

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I am St. Cloud Proud!!! 

After graduating from Addis Ababa University, I wasn't sure what I really wanted to do. I decided to join SCSU and enter their Biotechnology program. I was waiting for something different. I was waiting for something more technical, more scientific that would integrate Biology courses into a more scientific program. I chose the Biotechnology concentration specifically because I was searching for a career path into the field of health-related research. I loved the small class size at SCSU. I also felt that all my instructors showed respect and care for their students and that they truly enjoyed teaching. I looked forward to going to class and have taken away very practical, real-world knowledge.

Due to the vast opportunities and clubs present in SCSU, I was able to broaden my leadership skills. Since starting freshman year, I was involved on campus, as a clubs and organization  leader, Community Advisor, supervisor for summer camp, as well as a volunteer for different on/off campus events.

My education at SCSU is what got me where I am at today. With my educational background and my leadership experience, I can go anywhere. I will continue my education in the future, and who knows, maybe I will be an instructor here in SCSU.

Kim Siemsen

Kim Siemsen

Country: Germany

Major(s): International Business

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I came to St. Cloud State two years ago and I have had nothing but a good experience. There are lots of great opportunities to get involved around campus such as student organizations, intramurals and other clubs. A couple of semesters ago I was elected as the treasurer for our management organization on campus.  I have met lots of employers and learned a lot about job opportunities in the business world.

The Center for International Studies offers amazing trips for international students and their friends to see the area. My favorite one so far has been a trip to Minneapolis to see the Twins game and going to the Mill City museum afterwards. I encourage all of you to get involved and let this experience be one of the best of your life!

Elena Shishkina

Elena Shishkina

Country: Russia

Major(s): International Relations

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First thing I want to say is that SCSU is a Perfect Place to be a student! Now I’ll explain why.

I’m an exchange student. I won the U.S. Department of State Scholarship and came to St. Cloud State to study International Relations and be a Cultural Ambassador of my homeland, Russia. This is my first time in the United States and I’m happy that I came to St. Cloud.

St. Cloud State offers lots of opportunities for professional and personal growth. My major is International Relations. All the classes I take here fully correspond to my goals and interests. The Latin American Government course gives me a better understanding of the Latin World, the countries of my third studied language, Spanish. I take Intermediate Spanish here as well. After three months of studying I feel a significant progress in mastering this magic language.

My passion is music.  I play the clarinet. At SCSU I found a perfect chance to improve my music skills through pleasure – the Campus Band! Plus I’m not indifferent to current environmental problems. My Environmental Politics class helps me to find better ways to protect our nature.

Besides studies, St. Cloud State is a multicultural home for more than 80 countries of the world! All people around me are so different because of various cultures… This diversity is a real example of tolerance and friendship of Nations. On the other hand all five continents have one thing in common - this wonderful place called St. Cloud State! We are ONE!

Anish Dhakal

Anish Dhakal

Country: Nepal

Major(s): Computer Science

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I have enjoyed my days at Saint Cloud State University from the very beginning. The professors are very helpful and there are a lot of resources to learn and explore. This University has fulfilled my dream to get a higher education in Computer Science in the USA. I have learned many more things from each and every class. This is the University where we can get quality education with affordable fees and also the living costs around here are cheaper compared to other places.

There are other fun activities at Saint Cloud State University like different cultural programs where you can explore and get the knowledge of other cultures, Atwood Afterdark, and lot of other things. Saint Cloud State University is simply the place where you can learn, play, enjoy, and make yourself prepared for the bright future. That makes me proud of my decision.

Lola Bello

Lola Bello

Country: Nigeria

Major(s): Bio-Medical Science

Minor(s): Graphic Design

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At first i was skeptical about what St. Cloud State could offer me in terms of academic research for my major and extracurricular activities. My adviser was extremely helpful in leading me to the right path on selecting a major and the instructors were allies in time of help. Even though their culture is way different from where i am from, it was easy for me to pick up with caring friends surrounding me.

My first semester was filled with trying out different organizations to see if i was interested in any of them. As it turned out, i was interested in all of them and became involved in over seven different organizations and volunteered for over 30 different activities and groups. There is not a dull day in the life outside of class.

Blerim Ibrahimi

Blerim Ibrahimi

Country: Republic of Kosovo

Major(s): Information Systems (BA) and Information Assurance (MA)

Minor(s): Computer Science

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Ever since I was a child, my dream was to study at an American University. Having the opportunity to study at St. Cloud State University has been the richest and most rewarding education experience. Pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Systems with a minor in Computer Science was challenging, challenging enough to push me forward to another big step in my career.  I am now pursuing my master’s degree in Information Assurance here at St. Cloud State University.  

Flexibility over the course choices along with approachable and helping personalities of professors and staff have made this University worthwhile and a great learning atmosphere for me. I was initially intimidated by the level of excellence demanded of the graduate students at St. Cloud State; however I have come to realize that this kind of dedication on behalf of the faculty is invaluable to students. I am thoroughly convinced that they are indeed the great foundation of graduate education at St. Cloud State University.  

Moreover, living on a diverse campus with friendly students from around the world made St. Cloud State University a true home-away-from-home living environment. 

My ambition is to return to my country after graduation with the knowledge I have gained and work for the betterment of Kosovo and my countrymen.

Meng-Chi Hung

Meng-Chi Hung

Country: Taiwan

Major(s): Mass Communication – Graduate Program

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I chose St. Cloud State University’s Mass Communications graduate program to help me achieve my academic and professional goals. I graduated from the Intensive English Center at SCSU which greatly improved my English language skills. This has given me a great opportunity to build a global perspective, acquire academic success, and appreciate culture from different countries. Although this is my first semester at SCSU, I have been given many opportunities to discuss my academic goals with my classmates and professors.   

Every day I would take the bus from my apartment to the university. As the bus passed through the Mississippi River, the surface of the river was covered in pure, white snow while the snow-covered trees looked like gingersnaps. This image portrays one of the most beautiful landscape paintings in the world and it is very much appreciated.

By enjoying the bitter cold and staying positive is the best way to experience life at St. Cloud State University. I have participated in many meaningful cultural trips, like visiting the ice sculpture, learning how to make maple syrup, and ice skating for the first time. I also participated in cultural nights and a variety of activities on campus. It’s such an unforgettable experience to live in St. Cloud.

Now that I am at St. Cloud State University, I always keep my passion to make more friends. Actually, having an open-minded attitude to enjoy a whole new world, you can explore more than you expected before. So come and join our big family!

Dileep Kotha

Dileep Kotha

Country: India

Major(s): Master in Engineering Management

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Attending St. Cloud State University was one of the best choices in my life. As an electrical engineering student in the undergraduate program, my passion toward both engineering and management studies was fulfilled by taking the master’s program in Engineering Management. The faculty here is very friendly and helpful in dealing with the courses and guiding me toward a better future.

St. Cloud State has helped me a lot with its programs and events by providing a bridge which leads to different cultures of the people. Participating in the programs or events conducted by University Programming Board (UPB) like After Dark will really take you to the different world which gives you relief from stress.  There may be lot of techniques for stress relief but as one will be stressed with the academics in the school, you can get the relief in the same school area by the activities performed in the school campus.

At last I can say that choosing St. Cloud State will be one of the best decisions I have made.

Antony Odhiambo

Antony Odhiambo

Country: Kenya

Major(s): Biomedical Science

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Saint Cloud State University offers broad programs of studies in different areas from bachelors to graduate levels. It’s fascinating how the professors are willing to help me in my academic pursuits. I have worked with an applied genomic research group and a microbiology research group.  Both have helped me learn cutting edge research in various fields of science.

My participation in the Academic and Cultural Sharing Scholarship has expanded my network of friends and has led to a better understanding of various cultures around the world while at SCSU. As the elected president of the Little Falls Friends group for the school year 2011 through 2012, my experience through interactions with various cultures and activities has led to an in-depth understanding of the global diversity we have at SCSU.

Nhung Do

Nhung Do

Country: Vietnam

Major(s): Mass Communications

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The moment I decided to attend St. Cloud State was the moment that changed my life! I used to be a shy and totally unconfident girl. I came to St. Cloud State with some doubts of how to get used to the new life and make friends. I also heard a lot about the difficulties of college life which caused me to have more doubts about my ability to get through this tough four years. However, since coming here my whole perspective has changed.

The friendliness of people and the amazing education which St. Cloud State provided to me has motivated me to push myself out here and try to become a part of the St. Cloud State community. I have joined a lot of excellent activities and was able to join every social activity. These activities have given me a chance to make friends from all over the world, while pursuing a wonderful education. This has just opened up a whole new me!

Don't miss a chance to come enjoy and have a life experience at St. Cloud State with my promise that you will have no regrets
Mohammed Tajuddin

Mohammed Tajuddin

Country: India

Major(s): M.S. in Computer Science

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I worked as a Software Engineer for three years then I decided I wanted to do something else; I wanted to pursue my master’s degree in Computer Science. After careful consideration and valuable suggestions from my friends, I zeroed in on SCSU. In the beginning I was a bit hesitant, but after the first week in St. Cloud, I really enjoyed the diverse student body at SCSU. Being at SCSU, I never felt I was away from home. Here at SCSU you meet awesome people and you learn a lot about yourself.

The professors here are fantastic. They care and know what they're teaching about; they are leaders in their fields. Social life at SCSU is pretty good. At SCSU you’ll find that there are clubs and organizations of all sorts, for people from different cultures, traditions, and countries. My favorite thing about SCSU is the incredible international population here.

I chose to attend St. Cloud State because I know my degree from SCSU will guide me into my future goals. SCSU is a place where you get a quality education at a low cost. My sincere advice to someone considering SCSU would be, GO FOR IT! It will probably be one of the best decisions that you’ll ever make in your life!

Mariana Ponce

Mariana Ponce

Country: Honduras

Major(s): International Business with a concentration in Economics

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I attended a small private college first and then transferred to St. Cloud State University. At first, I was hesitant about SCSU being the right University for me, as I have never experienced being on a big campus. However, my experience at SCSU turned out to be a pleasant one. I liked the environment and the people are so welcoming and nice. Furthermore, SCSU is a diverse campus, and for this reason, I’ve not only had the opportunity to meet people from all over the world, but make true friendships with them. I have learned so much of each of my friends’ culture as well as some words in their languages.

Finally, I wanted to be more involved in the SCSU community; therefore, I decided to be a Community Advisor. As a CA, I have helped students living in the Residential Life housing, developed a community among them and worked together toward common goals. It has greatly helped me to grow as a person as well as improved my leadership skills. SCSU has definitely made my college experience worth it! 

Andre Tavares Silva

Andre Tavares Silva

Country: Brazil

Major(s): International Relations and History, and Minors in French and German

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I have been living in St. Cloud since 2008, as I attended my senior year at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School. Originally I was supposed to stay in the United States for one year only, but upon having the chance to carry out my long-time dream of going to college in this country, I then managed the procedures to study at SCSU.

Here I found an incredible environment, with people from different nations and cultures. I believe this institution and the state have a lot to gain by stimulating international students to study here through initiatives such as the ACSS. In turn, we can contribute with our own experiences in order to form a more pluralistic community, improving the sense of understanding from both sides in this rich exchange of cultural views.

Through this program I had the chance to work as a Spanish tutor on campus and as a volunteer tutor at Apollo High School, both practices that have taught me a lot. Moreover, the frequent contact with other international students and events like Cultural Nights and Cafes only added to change negative stereotypes I used to hold against certain cultures, as well as being a significant part to my degree of International Relations. Furthermore, by choosing to study History, I am able to learn the past of this country counted by its citizens, taking advantage of the vast array of primary sources available here; and get to know the many cultural, political, social, economic, and external factors that came together to build this magnificent nation.

Perhaps extending my one-year stay into a five-year one turned out to be the best choice I have ever made. It sure is a privilege to spend important years of my life in this city, experience the hospitality of the people, eat the delicious typical foods, learn the traditions, feel the awesome weather (I truly find it great, I come from a very hot place!), and last but definitely not least, enjoy the green and peaceful sceneries of beautiful Minnesota.

Valeria Fossa

Valeria Fossa

Country: Peru

Major(s): Accounting, with a minor in Information Systems

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I chose to attend St. Cloud State University my senior year in High School. The reason that attracted me to SCSU was that I had heard from multiple people how good their business program was. What I like about SCSU is that it is a great community that has many events going on and everyone is proud to be a Husky. I also like the way that there are a lot of events that are held by international students to teach others about their cultures and open others’ minds about other countries in the world. SCSU has a very helpful Center for International Studies office. I have had many of my own questions answered by them. SCSU also has groups for almost every major and it is important to become involved with as many activities as possible for that specific major. There are many opportunities to grow as a person, find yourself and realize what it is you want to do for the rest of your life. The advisors that I have had helped me to choose the classes that were going to help me the most to achieve the future job that I have chosen.

I am very thankful that I chose to attend St. Cloud State. I have learned so much about my field of study, myself, and about a lot of topics that have made me a better, more knowledgeable person. The people at SCSU are very friendly and I have met many people that I will know for the rest of my life and who have made an impact on my life.

Jarkko Aho

Jarkko Aho

Country: Finland

Major(s): Pre-Business

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I decided to go to college in the States after my friend, who is also a student at SCSU, told me about staying in the States after an exchange year in High School. I looked for different schools, St. Cloud State seemed like a great option and I haven't been disappointed since. The school offers great programs, professors who are willing to help you with your problems, and lots of activities around campus.

The ACSS gives international students the same cost per credit as the resident students get. In order to get the scholarship you will have to do two different cultural sharing activities each semester. The Center for International Studies provides lots of activities for students to complete. You will also have to take at least 12 credits per semester and for undergraduate, like myself, the GPA must stay at 2.50 or higher.

Personally I like to both play and watch hockey.  St. Cloud State offers a Division 1 program to watch, and open hockey every weekday for free with your student ID. The activities aren't limited to only hockey. On campus they have a fitness center, pool, football field, and gym with running track. There are lots of cultural and entertainment things for those who aren't so much into sports. Different speakers, concerts, and a weekly movie will keep you entertained.

Currently I'm a member of a co-ed business fraternity and I have met great people through that. Networking is one of the key elements in a job hunt today, but it's also a great way to meet people. For example I met one of my current roommates while playing open hockey. Living in the dorms is also a great way to meet new people.

When I go back home people wonder how I can be away from my family and friends from there. My answer is simple. Skype helps with staying in touch with the family and you will find new friends on campus. I haven't regretted my choice to come to St. Cloud State.

F. Dheeshana Shiraz

F. Dheeshana Shiraz

Country: Sri Lanka

Major(s): Business Management (Human Resources)

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Attending St. Cloud State University is the best decision I have ever made. I always wanted to study in the field of business with human resources. I felt that this field would give me an opportunity to meet people with diverse backgrounds since the United States has a more diverse population. This was made possible since SCSU has a very diverse culture of students. SCSU opened me to wide areas of opportunities.

Being a Community Advisor in a residential hall was a most wonderful thing which happened to me in SCSU. By this I was able to interact with students from diverse populations and build greater living communities while interacting with my professors too to keep up with my grades. Although I am originally from Sri Lanka, I have performed in the India Night of 2010 and became involved in many other cultural organizations. Be a part of SCSU, I assure you, you would not regret it!!

Subodh Singh Dongol

Subodh Singh Dongol

Country: Nepal

Major(s): Network Information Security Systems

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Let’s see, how should I describe the experience I am having here in one word? "Amazing.” Yes, winters are very cold and when that gust of cold wind hits your face, you feel like you should have gone to a nice and warm place, but who cares about something small like that when you could experience something great.  I still remember the first day here; I was excited, happy and a bit nervous because I was going to a class 8000 miles away from home for the first time. But everything changed when I entered my first class, I think it was a calculus class; the professor was very kind, helpful and understanding. She taught everything nicely and helped me throughout the whole semester. The point is that the professors of St Cloud State are as good as any other university. They provide the high quality education that anyone would want with great effort and determination. They also have helped me through a lot, when I was confused about what to do, they gave me advice and when I wanted to change my major they encouraged me to do what I really wanted. 

From my experience here I can say that St Cloud State University is a great place to study especially for international students. The place is nice and quiet, people are very friendly and the staff are very helpful, especially staff from the Center of International Studies.  They will help you with whatever problems or questions you have. For an international student, St Cloud State is a great choice because of the huge number of international students you will find here and the opportunities the university provides for them. You have literally hundreds of majors that you can choose; from computer science to business. Then, you have the ACSS scholarship they provide, especially designed for international students. It is very helpful. And then you will find numbers of different cultural & non-cultural organizations.  You can join the organization of your liking and participate in the events that they organize. This will help you broaden your skills as a leader, coordinator or will give you just plain experience which might assist you later in your career. Rather than me talking and you reading this, just come up here and experience everything by yourself!

International Recruitment and Admissions

Contact Information
Phone: (320) 308-4287

St. Cloud State University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity educator and employer.
St. Cloud State University is a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system.
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