International Student Stories brought to you by Study in the USA

International Student Stories brought to you by Study in the USA
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Our mission is to support, educate and celebrate the international student and higher education communities by providing a platform to share authentic stories and exchange ideas. We aim to unite people. To better appreciate and understand our differences, while recognizing our similarities and shared dreams. To inspire and uplift people. To create a more welcoming environment for all individuals. One voice at a time. One story at a time.

  1. Empowering Fellow Students — Turning Challenges into Opportunities

    Mar 10

    Empowering Fellow Students — Turning Challenges into Opportunities

    Liberty Hombe is an advocate for justice — the ultimate example of someone who turns challenges into opportunities. Liberty is a pre-med student born in Zimbabwe but spent much of his childhood in South Africa. He is attending Minnesota State University in Mankato and has started several student organizations that help improve the lives of international students. Today, you can find Liberty empowering students to find their voice as he himself exemplifies the change he wants to see in the world. This is his story.

    1h 12m
  2. The Psychology of Test-Taking: How to Crush Anxiety and Succeed in Life

    Feb 13

    The Psychology of Test-Taking: How to Crush Anxiety and Succeed in Life

    SEASON 3 — EPISODE 7The Psychology of Test-Taking: How to Crush Anxiety and Succeed in Life Dr. Dimitrios Vonofakos joins us to continue the conversation sparked in our previous episode, “Life’s Pop Quiz: The Unexpected Lessons of a Grad School Exam,” alongside Anish Merchant. But this time, we go deeper. Drawing from his background in psychoanalysis and his work at Merchant GMAT & Admissions, Dr. Dimitrios explores the psychological foundations of test-taking — unpacking why anxiety arises, how fear manifests, and what mental frameworks actually help students perform at their highest level. This conversation moves beyond the GMAT. Dr. D reframes test anxiety as something universal — a metaphor for the fear, comparison, perfectionism, and self-doubt we face in everyday life. Through thoughtful insight and practical strategies, he shares how students (and professionals) can navigate mental blocks, apply structured problem-solving frameworks, and learn when it’s okay to “skip” — not every problem needs to be solved immediately. This episode is not just about crushing anxiety on an exam. It’s about developing the mindset to face life’s biggest challenges with clarity, confidence, and resilience. Episode Summary 01:52 – Dimitrios reflects on a cherished childhood photo and early influences.  03:15 – His journey to studying psychoanalysis at the University of Essex.  05:10 – How he integrates psychoanalytic principles into his work at Merchant GMAT & Admissions.  06:31 – What first sparked his interest in the GMAC and standardized testing psychology.  07:28 – If the GMAT were a person, how would he describe it?  08:16 – What the GMAT is actually trying to bring out in test-takers.  09:02 – Why fear is the greatest challenge students face during high-stakes exams.  10:37 – The gap between score-improvement promises and psychological reality.  11:47 – How people truly deal with anxiety.  14:40 – Frameworks Merchant uses to navigate mental blocks and test anxiety.  18:18 – The GMAT as a metaphor for the psychological challenges of life.  21:51 – The concept of “skipping” — and why you don’t have to solve everything at once.  22:56 – Two essential insights for navigating both exams and life’s pressures.  25:40 – How to connect with Merchant GMAT & Admissions.

    28 min
  3. Life’s Pop Quiz: The Unexpected Lessons of Grad School Exams

    Feb 13

    Life’s Pop Quiz: The Unexpected Lessons of Grad School Exams

    SEASON 3 — EPISODE 6Life’s Pop Quiz: The Unexpected Lessons of Grad School Exams Anish Merchant often references “The Hero’s Journey” — the timeless story of a protagonist who leaves home in search of belonging, only to discover that the journey itself reshapes who they are. Inspired by that narrative, Anish left the United States in pursuit of his own grand adventure. His path led him to Buenos Aires, Argentina, where he discovered not only a new home, but a new calling. What could have been the conclusion of one chapter instead marked the beginning of another. That next chapter became Merchant GMAT & Admissions, Anish’s company dedicated to helping students navigate the GMAT, graduate admissions, and the deeper lessons embedded in the process. For Anish, the GMAT isn’t just a standardized exam — it’s a metaphor for life: structured thinking, resilience under pressure, strategic risk-taking, and confronting the fear of failure. In this episode, Anish reflects on adventure, entrepreneurship, MBA culture, and why exams — much like life — are less about perfection and more about growth. Episode Summary 02:53 – The meaning behind Anish’s name.  03:39 – How seeking adventure led him to Buenos Aires and changed his life trajectory.  05:58 – What resonated so deeply with him about Argentina.  07:05 – The origins of Merchant GMAT & Admissions.  10:44 – How Anish views the role of an MBA degree in someone’s life.  12:05 – Why the GMAT or MBA should be seen as a means to an end, not the end itself.  14:48 – The importance of knowing what you don’t want, as much as what you do want.  18:47 – Comparing the MBA journey to the broader path of life.  19:34 – How the GMAT serves as a metaphor for resilience and structured problem-solving.  21:40 – Breaking down the thinking frameworks embedded within the GMAT.  24:15 – Addressing the fear of failure and how it limits potential.  26:35 – How working in international education transformed his own path.  28:00 – His favorite superhero — and the superpower he’d choose.

    30 min
  4. The Future of EdTech: Hope, Empathy, and Connection

    Feb 13

    The Future of EdTech: Hope, Empathy, and Connection

    SEASON 2 — EPISODE 5The Future of EdTech: Hope, Empathy, and Connection (Part 2) Paige Steffy returns for Part 2 of her two-part conversation — and this episode shifts from personal journey to global perspective. Having experienced life as an international graduate student in the U.K., Paige understands firsthand the emotional complexity of studying abroad: the uncertainty, the excitement, the homesickness, the growth. Now, working within the EdTech space at Unibuddy, she stands alongside students as they navigate those same transitions. In this thoughtful and forward-looking discussion, Paige reflects on the three themes that consistently shape international education: hope, empathy, and connection. She explores how student ambassador programs, peer-to-peer engagement, and authentic storytelling are transforming how prospective students make decisions — and how institutions can better support them. This episode asks an important question: What does the future of international education look like — and how do we build it with humanity at the center? Episode Summary 02:26 – Exploring the roots of Paige’s last name, “Steffy.”  03:32 – Why international education is so deeply meaningful to her.  05:29 – How her experience as an international student in the U.K. shaped her ability to bridge cultures professionally.  09:18 – Her unique perspective working across multiple sides of the international student journey within EdTech.  10:30 – Why student ambassadors are critical to the decision-making process for prospective students.  13:51 – A story about an international student at Willamette University who specialized in aquaponics.  18:34 – What gives Paige hope for the next generation of students.  20:05 – The responsibility adults have to foster hope in international students.  21:33 – Strengths of the U.S. international education system — and where it can learn from others.  23:28 – Where she sees the international student industry evolving in the next five to ten years.  25:01 – What Paige is most grateful for in her career serving international students.

    28 min
  5. Unlocking the Universe: From Forbes 30 Under 30 to New Frontiers in Science

    Feb 13

    Unlocking the Universe: From Forbes 30 Under 30 to New Frontiers in Science

    SEASON 3 — EPISODE 5Unlocking the Universe: From Forbes 30 Under 30 to New Frontiers in Science (Part 2) Maryam Esmat returns for Part 2 of her extraordinary two-part interview — and this chapter expands from storytelling to the cosmos. A Forbes Middle East 30 Under 30 honoree, Maryam continues to push the boundaries of astrophysics while pursuing her Ph.D. at Johns Hopkins University. In this episode, she takes us behind the scenes of her work with NASA, through AURA (Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy), at the Space Telescope Science Institute, contributing to the historic James Webb Space Telescope mission. From calibrating the telescope to supporting exoplanet researchers in using its groundbreaking technology, Maryam offers a rare glimpse into the collaborative and global nature of modern astrophysics. But her work does not stop at telescopes. Maryam also dives into her current research on dark matter — one of the most mysterious and foundational questions in modern physics — while speaking candidly about the rarity of Arabs, particularly Arab women, in the physics and astrophysics communities. This episode is about scientific discovery, representation, mentorship, and legacy. Maryam is not only unlocking the universe — she’s opening doors for the next generation to do the same. Episode Summary 02:00 – Maryam reflects on her time at the Space Telescope Science Institute, working on the James Webb Space Telescope.  05:29 – Two major projects she contributed to: (1) calibrating the telescope and (2) guiding exoplanet scientists in its use.  07:27 – Her reaction to being named to Forbes Middle East 30 Under 30.  09:14 – An accessible explanation of dark matter and why it matters.  15:32 – Collaborating with leading scientists, including the HAYSTAC collaboration and Dr. Katelyn Breivik.  20:11 – Debunking misconceptions about the astrophysics community.  23:28 – The rarity of Arabs — especially women — in physics and astrophysics.  26:25 – A call to Arab physicists worldwide and her involvement in a global Discord network connecting them.  27:07 – Her commitment to mentoring students through EducationUSA, astrophysics research, and creative writing.  29:00 – Advice for students considering studying in the United States.

    35 min
  6. Chasing the Hogwarts Fantasy: Transporting to the U.K.

    Feb 13

    Chasing the Hogwarts Fantasy: Transporting to the U.K.

    SEASON 2 — EPISODE 4Chasing the Hogwarts Fantasy: Transporting to the U.K. (Part 1) For many, the magic of Harry Potter was an escape into another world. For Paige Steffy, it was also a glimpse into her future. Inspired by stories of adventure and possibility, Paige pursued her own international journey. She graduated from UC Davis with a double major in Psychology and Spanish, then worked in the admissions office at Willamette University, helping guide students through their own higher education paths. But Paige felt called to experience education from the other side of the world. Her next chapter took her to the United Kingdom — not to Hogwarts, but to Royal Holloway, University of London, where she completed her master’s degree. Immersed in a new academic system, culture, and healthcare structure, Paige gained firsthand insight into what it truly means to be an international student. Today, she uses that experience to support students globally through the Unibuddy student ambassador platform, helping future international students navigate the uncertainties she once faced. In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Paige reflects on storytelling, study abroad, career pivots, and the courage to chase the life you imagine. Episode Summary 03:20 – Paige shares her background, academic journey, and career in student education.  07:05 – How her love for stories influenced her professional path.  08:09 – The role teachers — and Harry Potter — played in shaping her aspirations. 09:24 – Why she chose to pursue graduate studies in the U.K. rather than remain in the U.S. 11:44 – How Steve Jobs’ Stanford commencement speech connects to Paige’s story. 12:37 – How studying abroad transformed her perspective on being an international student. 16:55 – Comparing the National Health System in the U.K. to healthcare in the U.S. 19:36 – How her U.K. experience now helps her guide international students. 20:53 – Someone she would spend a day with, dead or alive.

    24 min
  7. Prologue to Greatness: Author, Astrophysicist, and Mentor

    Feb 13

    Prologue to Greatness: Author, Astrophysicist, and Mentor

    SEASON 3 — EPISODE 4Prologue to Greatness: Author, Astrophysicist, and Mentor At just 24 years old, Maryam Esmat’s life already reads like a greatest hits album. Recognized on Forbes Middle East 30 Under 30 for her groundbreaking work in astrophysics, and named the youngest published author in the Middle East, Maryam has achieved what many spend a lifetime pursuing. Yet, if you ask her where we are in her story, she’ll tell you something unexpected: We’ve only read the prologue. Born and raised in Giza, Egypt, Maryam grew up in a home filled with books, curiosity, and academic rigor. Her love for science and storytelling emerged from the intersections of history, culture, literature, and the human psyche. Today, she is pursuing her Ph.D. at Johns Hopkins University, continuing to push boundaries in both science and narrative. In this episode, Maryam reflects on identity, intellectual curiosity, mentorship, and the courage to dream beyond geography. She speaks about studying abroad in the United States, challenging misconceptions about international students, and blending astrophysics with creative writing in ways that redefine what it means to be multidimensional. Her journey reminds us that greatness is not a destination — it’s a mindset. And her story is only just beginning. Episode Summary 03:09 – Maryam introduces us to her childhood in Giza, Egypt, and the city that shaped her.  03:53 – Growing up in a household of readers, academics, and endless books.  05:06 – How her parents’ interests in history and culture sparked her passion for science.  06:05 – Why the U.S. liberal arts education model drew her to study abroad.  07:32 – How her family supported her decision to pursue education in the U.S.  11:19 – Reflections on how perceptions of her journey have changed over time.  13:30 – Observations on the geographic and cultural diversity of the United States.  15:06 – Misconceptions U.S. residents may hold about international students.  17:49 – An overview of her award-winning novel, The Escaping Flashback, and its inspiration. 20:30 – How she grounds her writing in science, human interaction, and psychology. 22:05 – Looking back on her creative writing thesis at Lycoming College, The Evolution of Storytelling in Egypt. 25:13 – The next story Maryam hopes to tell.

    29 min
  8. Elevating the Student Voices of Tomorrow

    Feb 13

    Elevating the Student Voices of Tomorrow

    SEASON 3 — EPISODE 3Elevating the Student Voices of Tomorrow (Part 2) Danny Nguyen returns for Part 2 of his powerful two-part interview — shifting the conversation from personal history to future impact. Now serving as Vice President of Administrative Services at Mission College, Danny brings both lived experience and institutional leadership to the table. Having once been a refugee child searching for belonging, and later an educator deeply shaped by his students, he understands the transformative power of being heard. In this episode, Danny shares his optimistic vision for the future of international education — one rooted in empathy, representation, and authentic student voice. Yet optimism does not mean complacency. Danny candidly reflects on areas where higher education must improve, particularly in recognizing and valuing the unique experiences international students bring to classrooms, workplaces, and communities. From the realities of job prospecting to the emotional weight of comparison, this conversation explores both the challenges students face and the systems that must evolve. At its heart, this episode is about one core belief: when we elevate student voices, we strengthen the future of education itself. Episode Summary 02:09 – Danny reflects on how meeting international students from diverse backgrounds shaped him as a teacher.  05:30 – How his teaching experiences influence his leadership role at Mission College.  07:42 – His mission to actively listen to and elevate student voices.  10:44 – What friends, family members, and higher education professionals can do to support international students.  13:46 – Danny’s optimism for the future of international education and the innovation sparked by diversity.  16:36 – Why the value of international student experiences is often overlooked in job prospecting.  18:49 – Managing the weight of comparison and advice for students navigating similar pressures.  20:51 – The importance of community and belonging for international students.

    25 min
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About

Our mission is to support, educate and celebrate the international student and higher education communities by providing a platform to share authentic stories and exchange ideas. We aim to unite people. To better appreciate and understand our differences, while recognizing our similarities and shared dreams. To inspire and uplift people. To create a more welcoming environment for all individuals. One voice at a time. One story at a time.

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