Southern Illinois University Edwardsville has offered unique experiences in undergraduate education and American culture to three international students during their semester long stay through the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs’ Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD).
During the spring 2019 semester, Veranika Kukushkina, of Belarus, Wen Shu Wong, of Malaysia, and Ahmad Masalha, of Israel, have been studying in their respective disciplines, and gaining community service, professional development and cultural enrichment opportunities.
“I’m studying international economics,” Veranika said. “Last semester, I studied in Germany. Since I was also interested in the U.S., as it’s the leading economy in the world, I found the Global UGRAD program to be a great opportunity.”
At SIUE, Veranika emphasizes the value SIUE places on practical experiences, which she has found to complement the theoretical knowledge attained in her home country.
“I’m taking international trade, international management, and German and American history this semester,” Veranika said. “The faculty have been incredibly helpful, offering extra support and making me aware of their office hours.”
Wong is studying electrical engineering during her study abroad semester at SIUE. She’s been immersed in local culture through participation in such Campus Activities Board events as the Cougar Painting Studio, Cougar World Games and March Mayhem. She also joined fitness classes and has taken part in Service Saturdays.
“It has been a life-changing experience to explore the United States education system and cultures,” said Wong. “The education system is totally different from what I had in Malaysia, but my kind classmates helped me adapt. In the U.S., I have more small tests and assignments that make up the total score, while in Malaysia, I have fewer assignments and one final comprehensive test at the end of the semester.”
As recommended by the Global UGRAD program, the three visiting students were paired with American roommates to live in Cougar Village.
At semester’s end, Veranika plans to return to her home country to pursue a summer internship and complete her studies in international economics. Wong will move on to the University of Nottingham in the United Kingdom to continue her studies in electrical engineering.
Photo: International studies spending the Spring semester at SIUE via the Global UGRAD program are (L-R) Ahmad Masalha, Veranika Kukushkina (seated), and Wen Shu Wong.