SAN MARCOS, Texas –As the fall semester draws to a close, students reflect on their experiences with a focus on the challenges and successes that come with pursuing education in a new cultural setting.
According to Ayesha Tasnim, a graduate student from Bangladesh, the first semester was challenging as she struggled with cultural shock and imposter syndrome.
“I used to feel like I don’t know anything in the class but later on after one or two months, I got used to the culture here, and the main thing is that the people are really friendly,” said Tasnim.
Tasmin expressed appreciation for understanding classmates and faculty who boosted her confidence.
“I’m really lucky in the sense that all my classmates, professors, and the faculty I have interacted with have been really nice,” Tasmin said. “They have given me the opportunity to share my opinion, and they haven’t shut me off.”
In terms of exploring San Marcos, Tasmin recalls the scorching Texas summer and her quick adjustment to the climate. However, due to academic workload and the absence of a car, she hasn’t had much opportunity to explore the area.
Ahmed Marzuq Yakub, a graduate student from Ghana, acknowledges the challenges with the academic workload.
“It’s just a lot, but you need breaks, time to relax,” Yakub said. “It’s about finding that balance.”
For Yakub, getting around campus and the San Marcos community was a hassle.
“Transportation is a big challenge,” Yakub said. “The city needs to improve public transportation.”
Juwan Morgan left his home in Bangladesh and is pursuing a Ph.D. in materials science at Texas State.
“To be very honest, I feel like my second home here,” Morgan said. “I am far away from my family and friends, and this illness cannot be easily covered or recovered from. However, the environment here, the new friends, the new culture, and the faculty have been very supportive.”
Morgan said that the richness of laboratory facilities at Texas State is a significant aspect of his academic journey, especially in contrast to the resources available in his home country. He said this access to advanced equipment is a key factor in shaping his future studies and career.
Sinthia Islam Lisa from Bangladesh has been homesick.
“I miss my parents, and secondly, I miss my food,” Lisa said. “Here, it’s mainly vegetables and just boiled vegetables at that. Additionally, it’s quite expensive here.”
It took some time to adjust to colloquialisms that come with a new culture.
“So, my colleague told me, ‘Oh, my bad.’ OK, that’s the phrase instead of ‘I’m sorry.’ I was like, ‘Oh, no, you’re good. You’re not bad.’ That was so funny to me,” said Lisa.
Associate Dean of Students Terence Parker said international students bring unique perspectives to the university. The wealth of knowledge and cultural diversity they bring enriches the campus experience for both domestic and international students.
Parker advises international students, especially those approaching their second semester, to take a moment and consider their journey.
“Take the time after the fall to step back and reflect,” Parker said. “What worked? What didn’t work? What were the challenges? What were the successes?”
San Marcos is open to people from different countries who come from all over the world to study at Texas State, said Hays County Chief of Staff Alexander Villalobos.
“I believe that the reason why people would come here and really want to be engaged here is not only because it’s a beautiful place but also because it has a lot to offer,” Villalobos said. “It’s open to the different cultures in the world.”