International Student Spotlight
Hi, my name is Victor Wretling. I am a Business Administration major at my home university, Stockholm University in Sweden. I chose to study at FAU as I have always wanted to experience what it is like to study in the US. I knew I wanted to go on the exchange program but what made me apply to FAU were the courses they offered and the change in climate and experience of a new culture that it entailed.
What I remember most about my time at FAU were the days and nights spent with all my new friends, either sunbathing by the pool, trips to Miami and Fort Lauderdale, or game nights in our dorm. I made so many new friends and memories that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I learned a lot about different cultures and got to experience a new school system that I actually found good and refreshing.
What surprised me the most about studying at FAU was the grading system in some courses, more specifically the possibility to earn extra credit and the curving of the grades. It surprised me because it is not something I have experienced before during my education in Sweden. It allowed me to get more than 100/100 points on exams and final grades. That being said, the opportunity to earn extra credit was something that I thought was great, it gave students another chance to get the grade that they were aiming to achieve.
What I found most challenging about my time at FAU were the difficulties that came with shopping for groceries and other necessities. There are long distances between many stores which made it a bit time and energy consuming to shop which was also a personal choice as I did not choose to buy a meal plan but prepared my meals myself. I was often shopping once or twice a week where I chose to take an Uber or similar to be able to shop in bulk.
My favorite places to eat were Chipotle, Shake Shack, Popeyes, and a few local Chinese restaurants when I had takeout, but I would definitely recommend grabbing a Pub-Sub when visiting South Florida. My favorite places to hang out were at the recreation center, by the pool at IVA or on the beach, with friends of course!
My advice would definitely be to seize the opportunity. You will get to know yourself better and develop as a person, an invaluable experience. Although there is a lot of paperwork and formalities associated with the exchange, which in my opinion the education abroad coordinator was really helpful with, you will see that it is worth it as soon as you arrive on campus. FAU is a great university where I felt welcome from day one and the teachers are very knowledgeable and good at teaching.
Name: Meer Zafarullah Noohani
Major at Home University: Master of Science in Electronics Engineering at Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
Why did you choose to study at FAU?I chose to study for the Spring 2024 semester at Florida Atlantic University because of its strong emphasis on research and innovation, notably in the field of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. The diversity of the university community, as well as getting to experience a different educational system, influenced my decision.
What is your most memorable moment from your time at FAU? One of my most memorable experiences at FAU was attending the two-day Florida International Leaders Conference (FILC). It was an excellent opportunity to learn and interact with pupils and educators from various universities in Florida. The conference sessions and workshops provided valuable insights into leadership and collaboration, and I made multiple connections that I still value.
What surprised you the most about studying at FAU? What surprised me the most about FAU was the level of assistance and resources available to students. From cutting-edge laboratory facilities to easily accessible academic advisors, the university made sure that all students had the resources they needed to succeed. Furthermore, the campus's lively and welcoming environment made it simple to make friends and feel at home.
What did you find most challenging about your time at FAU? The most difficult aspect of my time at FAU was adjusting to the various academic standards and teaching styles. Initially, it was difficult to adjust to the continuous assessment method, which differed from the more exam-focused approach I was used to. However, this challenge pushed me to improve my time management and study skills.
What were your favorite meals, hobbies, and hangout spots while in South Florida? During my brief stay in Boca Raton in South Florida, I fell in love with the local cuisine. Boca Raton, with its coastal location, provided a variety of fresh seafood, such as shrimp tacos and lobster. Many restaurants offered fine dining with ocean views, making dining out a pleasant experience. Boca Raton has outstanding Italian cuisine, ranging from cozy pizzerias to fine dining establishments that serve delicious pasta and rice dishes. For something sweet, I enjoyed going to local bakeries for freshly baked pastries. Mizner Park in Boca Raton was my favorite hangout spot, where I could relax with friends.
What advice do you have for students who are considering studying abroad at FAU? For students considering studying abroad at FAU, I endorse seizing every opportunity to learn and grow, both academically and personally. Don't be afraid to participate in campus activities and clubs; these are wonderful opportunities to meet new people and create lasting memories. Also, make time to explore the surrounding area and immerse yourself in South Florida's unique culture.
Hi, my name is HyungChul Kim. I am a Sports Business major at my home university, Korea University Sejong. I chose to study in the United States has I had never been. One of my most memorable moments at FAU a home game of football. Korea is only beginning to become interested in football, yet soccer and baseball are the primary sports. I majored in sports, but the rules of football were too tricky, and I couldn't relate to why I enjoyed it. However, my roommates tried to make me a football enthusiast, and I loved the unique atmosphere that I could feel at home games. The size of the FAU campus really surprised me, as well as the many events offered in the Breezeway. The teaching style was also new to me. One of the most challenging aspects was the increase in the currency exchange rate. Overall, prices were more expensive than I expected. If I had stayed for a year, there would have been many things or services that could be obtained cheaper, but four months was short-term, so I felt it was too expensive to buy something. As an international student without a car, I could go around a little because my roommate lent me a Scooter, but the environment where it was difficult to get out of school was frustrating. My favorite place to eat was CHIPOTLE. I hope it comes to Korea soon. I also really loved the sports and was fortunate to wall all fives of the major sports in the U.S. My advice for future international students studying at FAU is to consider the weather. I think the weather and atmosphere unique to Florida are very attractive but can be hot. And people are very bright and cheerful because of the impact. I think it's a great place to go to Orlando or Miami if there's a car in this large state and you have various experiences. I wanted to stay for a year or two if time and money were allowed.
Hi, my name is Ms. Akari Yoshida. I am an English major at my home institution of Kansai Gaidai University. I chose to attend Florida Atlantic University as it was the exchange program given to me. My most memorable moments were spending time with my friends. I was very surprised how active students are at FAU. Students give their opinions in class and ask questions to professors after class. One of the most challenging aspects of my time at FAU were living on-campus with roommates. My favorite meal was tacos and I enjoy dancing so much that I joined the Dancing Club. My favorite spot to hangout in South Florida was Pineapple Grove Arts District in Delray Beach. I recommend for future students that they explore around FAU as much as possible because there are so many things to do.