Office of International Students and Scholars

Are you a prospective international student looking to learn more about the international student experience at UNCW? Our Global Student Ambassadors serve to provide opportunities for current international students to connect with prospective international students. Learn more about our Global Student Ambassadors below and feel free to reach out to them to learn more about what it's like to join the global Seahawk community!

Testimonials

Marin Akino

Where are you from?

I am from Tokyo, Japan.

Why did you choose UNCW?

I came to NC during my high school Sophmore Junior year (1st-2nd grade) as an exchange student. Then, I got a great American family in Smithfield, NC. I spent my college freshman year in Geneseo, NY. I wanted to tranfer to a bigger school which has more opportunities and more people. So, I was looking for a school and I asked my American father (host father). He introduced me to UNCW as a nice, warm, beach school. As I was researching about UNCW, I really wanted to come. UNCW has nice broadcasting/TV production classes, students-run TV organizations, Chick-Fil-A, nice tall pine trees, relaxing fountains, and friendly people. So, I decided to come here.

Why do you like the student community at UNCW?

People and professors are nice. It is also safe because I see security people walking around all the time.

What do you want to do after you graduate?

If possible, I would like to be a broadcaster or an announcer in my home city, Tokyo. If this is not possible, then I would like to work for a famous Japanese company in Tokyo. Hopefully, I can use my English skills at work so I can keep practicing and learning English!

What challenges have you faced as an international student and how has UNCW helped you overcome those?

I still struggle with English; however, luckily, UNCW has a Writing Center and librarians who help me a lot!

Soumaya Touati

Where are you from?

I am from Tunisia.

Why did you choose UNCW?

I chose UNCW because of the reputation of the Biology department as well as the location of UNCW.

Why do you like the student community at UNCW?

My favorite aspect of the community here is the efforts dedicated to the environmental issues.

What do you want to do after you graduate?

After I graduate, I would like to pursue graduate studies.

What challenges have you faced as an international student and how has UNCW helped you overcome those?

As a transfer student, I found it challenging to meet people; that is why I decided to get involved with the OISS events as much as possible.

David Begu

Where are you from?

I am from Albania. A small country located in Eastern Europe.

Why did you choose UNCW?

I chose to study at UNCW because it is a great university that provides an excellent atmosphere for learning and developing.

Why do you like the student community at UNCW?

I like the student community at UNCW because it challenges me to excel in my studies and career formation as a world changer.

What do you want to do after you graduate?

After I graduate, I would like to create software that will improve the lives of people and communities around the world.

What challenges have you faced as an international student and how has UNCW helped you overcome those?

The challenges that I have faced are dealing with cultural shock. Also, shifting from an Eastern European to an American education system; the pandemic situation and the lack of community life; the shift to online classes; the student advisors, professors, and peers have helped me by giving me support and advice. At UNCW I have learned how to not be afraid to ask questions, and every time I have asked for help, I have found support.

Johan Bjorck

Where are you from?

I am from Stockholm, Sweden.

Why did you choose UNCW?

I choose to go to UNCW because it is a great university with an awesome location. I also got the chance to enrol in the Men's Soccer team here at the University.

Why do you like the student community at UNCW?

I like the student community as it is very welcoming and always seek for new students to join them.

What do you want to do after you graduate?

After I graduate, I dream of becoming a soccer player or work in a small business.

What challenges have you faced as an international student and how has UNCW helped you overcome those?

I have faced many challenges, usually, often involving all the paperwork and things that are needed for international students, but I have got great help with that. :-)

Madi Beaulieu

Where are you from?

Toronto, ON, Canada

Why did you choose UNCW?

I choose UNCW as when I visited the campus was such a welcoming place and seemed like the perfect environment for me to continue my undergraduate studies.

Why do you like the student community at UNCW?

I like how inclusive it is, how many opportunities there are to get involved and how easy it is to get involved. I am already a part of a sorority and a part of a club sports team!

What do you want to do after you graduate?

I want to work in the sports marketing field or in a business working on issues like sustainability the environment.

What challenges have you faced as an international student and how has UNCW helped you overcome those?

Personally, for me the hardest part was adjusting to a new place and making new friends. However, everyone has been so welcoming and so kind, and I am happy I chose UNCW!

Ciaran O'Cleirigh

Where are you from?

I was born in Ireland but raised in Costa Rica.

Why did you choose UNCW?

I chose UNCW because of the great stories I heard about it, the beautiful and wide campus it has because it's close to the beach, it has my degree and a great program and also because of the small size of the classes.

Why do you like the student community at UNCW?

I believe it’s a big family, you can find a club that fits with what you like, they have Greek life, student organizations, traveling programs, club sports and many other things to get you involved outside of the classroom and feel involved.

What do you want to do after you graduate?

I am not too sure what I want to do after I graduate it’s a great big world and I’m excited for what it throws at me but I’m focusing on being an entrepreneur or an event planner.

What challenges have you faced as an international student and how has UNCW helped you overcome those?

As a transfer student, I have struggled with getting used to the American culture, but Wilmington is a very friendly place and getting involved and talking to people has helped me meet new people and get involved more in the culture.