Encountering diversity in the US

By Our Special Correspondent

Since my childhood, I had great passion for helping the needy people of society. So, I joined Shadow Human Rights Group, an NGO as a freelance nutritionist in Hyderabad. One day I came across a notification about the Community College Initiative Programme, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. The selected candidates were offered a one year free education in one of the Community Colleges of the U.S. in their selected field.

Like every student, I, too, dreamt of going abroad for education. So, I could not miss the golden opportunity and submitted my application for a course in Food and Nutrition. After I was selected for the programme, I was a bit nervous about the challenges I had to face in a new country and at the same time excited about starting a new journey.

I got admitted into Salt Lake City and College campus. When i landed in the USA, my host family received me at the airport. The host family is a volunteered family that welcomes students from different places or countries to stay with them during the exchange programme period. The warmth shown by then dispelled many notions of mine and they treat me as their own daughter.

My fears were put to rest on the first day itself at the Community College by the warm reception I got from the staff and coordinators. It’s been over eight months since I reached the United States and I have never felt uncomfortable. The SLCC is a beautiful campus surrounded by mountains and has a large international student population.

After entering SSLC, I got a chance to meet prople from different countries and make friends, and learnt about different cultures. Being an Indian, I did not leave a chance to introduce our culture and customs to my classmates who have come from all over the world. The exchange programme has benefited people like me who never dreamt of higher education. It has instilled confidence. In me and my language skills have improved enormously.

Along with studies there are plenty of activities in which I could engage myself always. A lot of events look place during vacation breaks, such as participating in Student Life and Leadership activities, a visit to different places in Utah, educational field trips and many more. American education is very flexible, interactive and assessment is continuous. International students are treated with respect and warmth.

One of the greatest benefits of my participation in the Community College Initiative Programme was the independence and understanding that I gained while learning to navigate and enjoy a culture and country so different from my own. American people are very friendly, kind and helping.

I am amazed by the diversity America provides to a newcomer. Being the participant of Community Initiative Programme is an outstanding and absolute a unique experience.