At the beginning, I had difficulty in choosing a suitable foreign university and going through the application process. After searching for the information on universities as well as consulting many people, I chose to attend Murray State University (MSU). When I encountered any problems or things that I was not sure or did not understand I contacted the university’s admission staff and received detailed instructions. I am especially very grateful to the staff of the Vietnam International Education Development (VIED) for their concern and advice during the process of preparation and studying Murray State University. In the end, thanks to the help of the dedicated staff of the VIED and the university, I completed the procedure and entered MSU in January, 2009.

MSU is a large university located in a rural area which is far from the city. The first impression of the university is the ancient architecture with traditional beauty. It exposes the quiet and well-ventilated and spacious atmosphere. I also have the feelings of piercing coldness at the end of the winter. However, I love everything which seems like uninteresting here. Being hidden in the ancient beauty, the inside of the university is modern with high buildings such as offices, campuses, residential colleges, etc. MSU has many colleges and departments; each college is a separate building. The facilities for studying and activities are well-equipped and suitable for the need of each subject. Besides the class hours, students have chances to access to an abundant and useful source of information in libraries. In addition, the university tries to give good programs which facilitate learning. With regard to the difficult and basic subjects, there are some volunteers who help and tutor other students. After the stress of studying, we are provided up with nourishing meals. At first, I did not like the food too much; however, I gradually became familiar with the food and it became appetizing even though rice is not the main dish. The dining hall sometimes serves Eastern food to meet the demand of Asian students.  Moreover, students are usually given a ride to a nearby supermarket by the university’s shuttle bus every Saturday afternoon. Furthermore, the university pays special attention to the students’ health. Next to the dining-hall, there is a gym which is very large and includes facilities for many sports like basketball, badminton and swimming. As a result, the sports trend is supported strongly by the students. What’s more, to relieve stress and relax, students can go to the university’s cinema to enjoy interesting films over the weekend

Being born and having grown up in the peaceful and beautiful coastal city of Qui Nhon, I tell myself that I must make attempts to study well to satisfy my family and the society. After leaving Le Quy Don specialized high school, I had to go to Ho Chi Minh City to study at the Foreign Trade University. Therefore, the experience of living independently and vigorously helps me so much when coming to the United States. Nevertheless, the chill in Kentucky makes me feel very lonely and nostalgic for my family, relatives and friends. Finally, I get over everything thanks to the encouragement of many people in Vietnam and especially the help of not only the teachers and international friends but also a Vietnamese group in MSU. When I arrived at the airport, it came as a great surprise to me that I received the warm welcome of the university’s staff and some friends. Every time I had difficulty in studying, the professors and friends are very enthusiastic in helping me by explaining whatever I do not understand. As an international student, I am very interested in scientific and efficient method of teaching and studying in MSU. The professors always encourage students to brainstorm and think critically before expressing our own ideas. The friendship is closely tightened after discussions and conferences. Besides, I have opportunity to continue studying Japanese at MSU after having studied it in Foreign Trade University for almost 2 years. The Japanese teacher was very nice to see me and suggested to me some suitable Japanese courses. Also, I have chances to become acquainted with many friends coming from Japan.

Especially, I get the material and mental help from my Vietnamese friends. My university has only 8 Vietnamese students but we created a very strong bond to help and uplift each other. With time, some will graduate and move to other universities or other paths of life, and I might be left here alone although I hope there will be other Vietnamese students who will come in the next few years. I am very proud of studying in MSU where I can look at the beautiful snow in winter; enjoy the bright bloom of flowers in spring. What wonderful it is! Although having studied for one semester, I still have the feelings of happiness that the twenty-year-dream comes to true.

In my opinion, dreaming is one way to set goals for ourselves. Just believe in ourselves and strive constantly, I think that we will be successful. As for me, Murray State University has given me the wonderful dream. I hope that there are many people who will find such beautiful dreams because MSU always welcomes international students, especially our Vietnamese people.