Academic Major: Accounting
Academic STATUS: Undergraduate
Graduation Year: 2011
HomeTOWN: Georgetown, Guyana
Well, it all began when I realized that I had a passion for accounting and that the one university in Guyana did not offer it. So, I decided to apply to various colleges in the U.S. I picked to apply to Brockport because two of my family members attended here, and as a result, they recommended it. They highlighted that Brockport was very welcoming to international students, and I think that was what sealed the deal for me.
My most memorable moment here is by far living on the third floor in McLean with all the other international students. That experience was great because it enabled me to learn about different cultures and also helped me to make new friends that I will hold dearly for the rest of my life.
Well, I love all my classes here at Brockport. My professors are very helpful and they make it their duty to make sure that I understand exactly what is going on in the class. My favorite class by far right now is my Intermediate Accounting II class (ACC 386). My professor is Asian, so it makes me feel like I am not the only international person in the room.
The environments are similar here as compared to the schools back home. However, the teaching techniques are different. My professors at home did not use as much technology to teach. We basically have blackboards and chalk and we really do not use textbooks as much because the teachers do notes for us and write them on the blackboards.
Yes, I am involved in three clubs: the International Student Organization (ISO), the Caribbean Student Association (CSA), and the Accounting Society. It is great being part of these clubs. They help me to interact with people of my same interests and culture and also people that share the same experiences as I do being here as an international student. So, I guess I can say these clubs are like my home away from home.
I have recently moved off campus. I lived on campus for my first two years. Living in Brockport has shown me what it’s like to live in a small community. I am very accustomed to living in a busy city where everything happens, so this was a change. I have adjusted however, so I can say now that it’s a very peaceful place to live when making a comparison.
I did not do any preparations at all. This was due to the fact that I found out that I was accepted to Brockport about three weeks before I came, so it was all a rush for me. I had to quickly get my visa and a ticket. However, prior to my acceptance I normally would visit the U.S. every summer so I practically knew what to look forward to.
My biggest struggle was adjusting to the food. I mean the environment here is nearly the same as home. Only the weather was different, and with some warm clothes, I was okay. The food, however, is different, so adjusting to it was my biggest challenge.
I miss my family the most and my way of life there. My mom and I are very close so it is hard being away from her. Also, I miss having sunshine all year round and being able to communicate with and visit my close friends on a regular basis.
It’s a great idea. Being here has taught me how to be independent and how to adjust to a different culture and environment. It’s an empowering endeavor. The people here are welcoming, and they make sure that you are comfortable. You meet great people that will be your life long friends and your professors open up their doors to you to help you with the learning process. It’s a move that’s worth every minute and sacrifice.
I plan to return home. I would like to contribute to my developing country and reunite with my family and friends. I also plan to get my master's degree after, so you never know, it might be back to Brockport.
Collaborative Training Dinner
5 pm - 7 pm
Faculty Staff Convocation
8:30 am - 10:30 am
Collaborative Training
1 pm - 5:30 pm
Red Cross Blood Drive
11 am - 4 pm
