Alumni Advice
The Global UGRAD family is vast, comprising over 3,000 alumni. We asked a few recent alums about tips they would share with new UGRAD students. Who better to share advice on navigating this experience than those who just participated in the program?
Durdonakhon Odilova | Uzbekistan | Georgia College & State University | Fall 2023
“Get out of your dorm! Try to connect and talk to people as much as possible. Value each single moment; four months in the United States is much shorter than you imagine. At the end of the program, some of the most important things are the friends you made and people you met. Best of luck, UGRADs!”
Nutchanun Mungpongklang | Thailand | University of Southern Indiana | Fall 2023
“Make the most out of it! Time flies quicker than you may think. Live, laugh, love! Try to go out and explore as much as you can. Make new friends and be an amazing friend for others. There might be some hard times, but remember that you have made it this far and be proud of yourself and your journey! Make lifetime memories and use this opportunity to improve and shine as who you are. Once a UGRAD, always a UGRAD!”
Seda Grigoryan | Armenia | University of the Incarnate Word | Fall 2023
“Studying abroad is a fun and incredible experience, but it can have its challenges. Do not go in with very unrealistic or perfect expectations about everything – life has positive and negative aspects. Don’t forget to enjoy the process. Every second of your journey is valuable.”
Azizul Sazali | Malaysia | University of Maine | Fall 2023
“It can be scary in the beginning; sometimes, you feel small. This is a reminder that being selected as a Global UGRAD participant means that you’re an outstanding person. Build courage and go bigger! Grab every opportunity to participate in any clubs, conferences, competitions, or programs that interest you and grow you. Implement your social skills and network with everyone! Four months is not that long, but it can be very valuable if you fill that time with many activities.”
Dren Kika | Kosovo | Florida Gulf Coast University | Spring 2024
“You must fight the initial homesickness and think of all the great things waiting to happen during your new adventure. Don’t shy away from making new friends. Do your best in class and don’t hesitate to take part in discussions. Most importantly… try Chipotle!”
Fernando Saenz Aguilar | Guatemala | Georgia College & State University | Fall 2024
“Try new things! One of the things I’m most happy and grateful for in this program was the opportunity to have so many first-time experiences with my friends, including bowling, roller skating, seeing the ocean, playing on the beach, and camping. Also, enjoy every single moment with your friends as much as possible! Live every day to the fullest because time flies and goodbyes will always be rough. When the moment comes, remember: we are so fortunate—after this experience, we have a piece of our hearts spread all over the world.”