Suzana, a former indoor and sand volleyball student-athlete, has inspired many by leading through example and sharing her journey from high school to junior college and eventually to a Division I university. Now serving as a Division II sand volleyball head coach, Suzana walked us through her favorite memories, the struggles she faced, and the academic challenges turned into lessons. She also shares valuable insights on navigating the H-1B visa process, along with what players should prioritize when pursuing recruitment and striving to succeed as collegiate student-athletes.

Suzana's instagram: suzanaandrade_

Suzana's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzana-andrade-255522219?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

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Welcome to a new chapter of the International Student-Athlete Podcast! 

By starting a new series of episodes, I have the pleasure of introducing Nikoleta Kandić, a previous guest of this podcast and a good friend, as a new co-host of this podcast! As a start, we flip the script and Niki interviews me! We talk about my journey, what made me start this podcast, and how all the dots connect in hindsight.

We hope you enjoy!

Barb's Instagram: @la_chicacheca

Barb's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tichackova

Thank you for listening and for your support!

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In this episode, I chat with Denis Petro, a former international soccer student-athlete from Slovakia. He talks about what it was like coming to the U.S. for college, how he balanced school and sport, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and what he does as a young professional. 

Denis shares helpful advice for international student-athletes, including tips on preparing before you arrive, connecting your interests to your studies, and making the most of opportunities like STEM OPT.

Denis' Instagram: @deny.petro46

Denis' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denis-petro/

Thank you for listening and for your support!

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In this episode, Barbora sits down with Lana Tererina to talk about her journey from Sweden to earning a college scholarship in the U.S. Lana shares insights on adapting to life as an international student-athlete, navigating cultural shifts, and stepping into leadership roles.

You can also learn about Lana’s transition to post-grad life, her experience with the NCAA internship, and her upcoming Master’s program at UNC. She offers practical tips for international students on building resumes, finding support, and embracing new opportunities.

Lana's Instagram: @s_teterina

Lana's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lana-teterina2001/

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What a great conversation with Nikoleta Kandić, a former volleyball student-athlete from Belgrade, Serbia! Niki shares her inspiring story of coming to the U.S. as a high schooler, overcoming language barriers, and navigating college life. We also dive into the reality of adjusting to life after college sports, building friendships, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Throughout the episode — and especially at the end — Niki offers some great advice you won't want to miss. We hope you enjoy!

Nikoleta's Instagram:

@nikoletakandic

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In this episode, I reflect on my journey as a grad student and generally these past 2 years. I open up about overcoming perfectionism, and the challenges and growth. I also dive into the importance of building genuine relationships, managing time wisely, and leaning on faith through uncertain times. As I face the unknown after graduation, I share lessons on setting boundaries, staying positive, and embracing change. This is a story about resilience, personal growth, and trusting the journey — wherever it leads.

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As a wise person once said to me, transitions are messy. As you gear up for the post-college chapter of your life, I want to share some insights that may help you in contemplating your path before you're in a hot seat. It's not really about having everything meticulously planned out, but rather about cultivating a strategic mindset and a game plan that can smoothly guide you into the complexities of the "real world." Let me know what is/was the biggest challenge for you in transitioning from being a student-athlete! 

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I had the pleasure of talking  to a remarkable individual, a long-time friend, Adam Holomoucky. Adam is not just an exceptional athlete but a lifelong student with a passion for studying human nature, marketing, and business. Originally from Czech Republic, he's currently an international triathlete pursuing an MBA at Queens University in North Carolina.  Join us as we explore Adam's path from finishing his Bachelor's in the Czechia to representing his school in Charlotte and securing 2 national championships as a tri-athlete. We chat about fascinating topics, from navigating the school search as an individual and a couple to comparing Czech and US universities, cultural differences, maintaining a winning attitude, overcoming language barriers, and much more. This is a conversation you won't want to miss!

Adam's Instagram:
@adamholomoucky

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As much as I don't want to admit it, it's been a crazy ride! Heading onto my 6th year in the US, achieving academic, athletic, and professional success, and becoming a little better human being, are things I don't take much time to pause and reflect on. With a podcast sharing the stories of international students, I wanted to share a bit of my ups and downs, which can help you guys understand a bit better where I'm coming from and why sharing stories can be very helpful. Hope you enjoy it!   

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Hi everyone! A new episode as promised! This time I had the fantastic opportunity to talk with Sigourney Kame, a former international volleyball student-athlete from Suriname. Sigourney had not only succeeded as an athlete, but also as a student, and a community member. She also had the privilege to represent Suriname as the Women's Volleyball National Team member since she was 13 years old. She had now earned 2 college degrees here in the US and had gained enormous professional experience. Tune in and listen to Sigourney Kame and her extraordinary journey!  

Sigourney's Instagram:
@sigourney1kame_luke.1.37

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