I did not inherit the English speaking skill when I was born. In fact, I only started to understand my first English word, “apple,” when I was five. Up to the present time, I have grown so much from that little five-year-old girl. I used my language skill to bring myself to Gustavus Adolphus College. I am fortunate enough to be here at Gustavus for an exceptional education and in America for an eye-opening cultural experience. The United States is my promising land. However, it appeared to be inadequate for me. Nevertheless, as I only focused on understanding the language, I was missing out the bigger piece of learning: the culture!
After doing thorough research, I feel Lancaster University would be the perfect program for me. It is worth mentioning that Lancaster University is one of the most prestigious universities in the United Kingdom and in the world. Times Higher Education World University Rankings placed Lancaster University in the top 150 best universities in the world and top 15 best universities in the United Kingdom. With that in mind, I would like to experience this world-class education. Moreover, I am a Communication Studies Major here in Gustavus. Looking further into my career, I will pursue a graduate
…show more content…
Moving to Minnesota alone without knowing anybody was a huge step. Entering a new environment was not easy for me. The collectivist culture I grew up with was definitely not the same with the culture in Gustavus. I have to admit that I struggled for the first several months and I felt like I was an alien in this world. I learned to compromise. I learned to absorb my Vietnamese self into this American environment. I enjoyed cooking Vietnamese food for my friends and teaching them about my culture. I also enjoyed learning about Minnesotan and American cultures. I believe the entry into a new culture I have experienced and the adjustment I have made will enhance my study abroad experience in