International Student Stories brought to you by Study in the USA

Escaping 1977 Vietnam: Finding a Place to Belong

A year remembered for the Fall of Saigon and “Black April.” A year marked by uncertainty, upheaval, and impossible decisions.

For Danny Nguyen and his family, it was the year everything changed.

Caught in the aftermath of a war-torn Vietnam, Danny’s parents faced a choice no family should have to make. Call it courage. Call it desperation. They wanted a better life for their children — and if that meant boarding a small boat and sailing into the dark, cold ocean with no guarantees, then so be it.

Today, Danny serves as the Vice President of Administrative Services at Mission College — a position that reflects leadership, stability, and decades of growth. But that title stands in stark contrast to the four-year-old boy who arrived in America in 1977, carrying only memories, uncertainty, and the weight of starting over.

In this deeply reflective episode, Danny shares what it means to flee your homeland, rebuild identity in a new country, and wrestle with the lifelong search for belonging.

As the saying goes, sometimes you have to lose yourself to find who you are.

Episode Summary

02:48 – Danny recalls a recent family trip and a meaningful family photo that sparked reflection.
 04:18 – Looking back at Vietnam in 1977 and the decision to flee by boat under cover of night.
 06:24 – Vivid memories of leaving Vietnam and rediscovering part of himself during a 2015 visit to Ho Chi Minh City.
 10:37 – Arriving in the U.S. as a young child and adjusting to a new culture.
 12:28 – How the concept of belonging has shaped Danny’s life.
 16:32 – Balancing cultural heritage with assimilation into American society.
 20:14 – Going from disliking academics to making education central to his life.
 23:25 – The winding journey through rebellion, pharmacy, and ultimately leadership in higher education.
 28:24 – Gratitude for a music choir instructor at Sylvandale Middle School who made a lasting impact.

Rewriting the Code: Black Women in STEM

Jessie Gentles is part of the 3%.

The tech industry has become one of the most lucrative and fast-growing sectors in the world. But within that rapid growth lies a stark reality: Black women represent only a small fraction of the IT workforce.

Born in Jamaica and now a software engineering student at Miami University, Jessie is determined to change that narrative.

In this powerful Season 3 premiere, Jessie shares her journey from Jamaica to the United States, navigating culture shock, academic rigor, and the realities of being a Black woman in STEM. She speaks candidly about representation, mentorship, and the responsibility — and opportunity — of being part of a small but rising percentage in tech.

Jessie is also a Hackathon Committee Member for Black Wings, a growing community of more than 950 women within Rewriting the Code, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering underrepresented communities in technology. Through mentorship, internships, networking, and leadership opportunities, organizations like these are actively reshaping the future of tech.

This episode explores courage, community, and the importance of building spaces where every voice belongs.

Change is not just on the horizon — it’s being coded in real time.

Episode Summary

02:42 – Simon shares the meaning behind Jessie’s last name, Gentles.
 03:14 – Jessie discusses her educational background and her desire to explore the world.
 04:52 – Adapting to culture shock after moving to the U.S.
 05:53 – Reflecting on how life may have been different had she stayed in Jamaica.
 06:46 – Her experience as a Black woman in STEM at Miami University.
 08:09 – Comparing technology accessibility in the U.S. and Jamaica.
 09:09 – The impact of organizations like Black Wings and Rewriting the Code on her academic journey.
 10:27 – How she became involved with the Black Wings organization.
 12:11 – Why Black women have historically been underrepresented in STEM.
 12:56 – The power of mentorships and internships for the next generation.
 14:49 – What the Black Wings Hackathon Committee does and why it matters.
 16:18 – Jessie’s entrepreneurial ambitions in software engineering.
 17:27 – Networking strategies that have helped her grow professionally.
 18:37 – Professors who have influenced her journey.
 19:47 – Navigating American slang, holidays, and cultural traditions.
 23:24 – Final advice for students considering studying abroad.

The Future of EdTech: Hope, Empathy, and Connection (Part 2)

Paige Steffy returns for Part 2 of her two-part conversation — and this episode shifts from personal journey to global perspective.

Having experienced life as an international graduate student in the U.K., Paige understands firsthand the emotional complexity of studying abroad: the uncertainty, the excitement, the homesickness, the growth. Now, working within the EdTech space at Unibuddy, she stands alongside students as they navigate those same transitions.

In this thoughtful and forward-looking discussion, Paige reflects on the three themes that consistently shape international education: hope, empathy, and connection.

She explores how student ambassador programs, peer-to-peer engagement, and authentic storytelling are transforming how prospective students make decisions — and how institutions can better support them.

This episode asks an important question: What does the future of international education look like — and how do we build it with humanity at the center?

Episode Summary

02:26 – Exploring the roots of Paige’s last name, “Steffy.”
 03:32 – Why international education is so deeply meaningful to her.
 05:29 – How her experience as an international student in the U.K. shaped her ability to bridge cultures professionally.
 09:18 – Her unique perspective working across multiple sides of the international student journey within EdTech.
 10:30 – Why student ambassadors are critical to the decision-making process for prospective students.
 13:51 – A story about an international student at Willamette University who specialized in aquaponics.
 18:34 – What gives Paige hope for the next generation of students.
 20:05 – The responsibility adults have to foster hope in international students.
 21:33 – Strengths of the U.S. international education system — and where it can learn from others.
 23:28 – Where she sees the international student industry evolving in the next five to ten years.
 25:01 – What Paige is most grateful for in her career serving international students.

Chasing the Hogwarts Fantasy: Transporting to the U.K. (Part 1)

For many, the magic of Harry Potter was an escape into another world. For Paige Steffy, it was also a glimpse into her future.

Inspired by stories of adventure and possibility, Paige pursued her own international journey. She graduated from UC Davis with a double major in Psychology and Spanish, then worked in the admissions office at Willamette University, helping guide students through their own higher education paths.

But Paige felt called to experience education from the other side of the world.

Her next chapter took her to the United Kingdom — not to Hogwarts, but to Royal Holloway, University of London, where she completed her master’s degree. Immersed in a new academic system, culture, and healthcare structure, Paige gained firsthand insight into what it truly means to be an international student.

Today, she uses that experience to support students globally through the Unibuddy student ambassador platform, helping future international students navigate the uncertainties she once faced.

In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Paige reflects on storytelling, study abroad, career pivots, and the courage to chase the life you imagine.

Episode Summary

03:20 – Paige shares her background, academic journey, and career in student education.
 07:05 – How her love for stories influenced her professional path.
 08:09 – The role teachers — and Harry Potter — played in shaping her aspirations.
09:24 – Why she chose to pursue graduate studies in the U.K. rather than remain in the U.S.
11:44 – How Steve Jobs’ Stanford commencement speech connects to Paige’s story.
12:37 – How studying abroad transformed her perspective on being an international student.
16:55 – Comparing the National Health System in the U.K. to healthcare in the U.S.
19:36 – How her U.K. experience now helps her guide international students.
20:53 – Someone she would spend a day with, dead or alive.

Engineering a Legacy: Overcoming Expectations, Gender Roles, and Cancer (Part 2)

Juliana Pereira returns for Part 2 of her powerful two-part interview — and this chapter reveals the depth of her resilience.

Now working as a Geotechnical Engineer, Juliana carries not only the technical responsibility of her profession, but also a deep sense of purpose. As a woman in STEM, she understands the weight of representation and the importance of opening doors for the next generation.

But engineering complex structures is not the greatest challenge she has faced.

Just a few years ago, Juliana was diagnosed with uterine cancer — a life-altering moment that reshaped her perspective on ambition, urgency, and legacy. Rather than retreat, she leaned in. She refused to let circumstance define her trajectory.

In this deeply moving episode, Juliana speaks about balancing purpose with vulnerability, navigating health challenges while pursuing excellence, and committing to a future that extends far beyond her own career.

Her story is about strength, survival, leadership, and the unwavering belief that women belong — and lead — in STEM.

Episode Summary

02:29 – Simon provides context on Civil Engineering and Geotechnical Engineering.
 03:42 – Juliana reflects on transitioning from Journalism to Engineering and the impact of that shift.
 06:04 – Why has there historically been limited representation of women in STEM?
 09:37 – How Purdue University’s Women in Engineering program is shaping the future.
 11:38 – Projects Juliana has worked on as a Geotechnical Engineer, including research involving lunar lava tubes.
 13:27 – How she is metaphorically “visiting the moon” through her work.
 14:19 – How her life changed after being diagnosed with uterine cancer.
 18:36 – Continuing to work and dream after diagnosis — and realizing that life does not pause.
 21:02 – How her perspective on success and legacy evolved.
 23:25 – Pursuing a Ph.D. with the goal of becoming a professor while remaining rooted in engineering practice.
 26:05 – Integrating her past media experience with her STEM career.
 28:43 – Environmental challenges and how her engineering work contributes to a better world.
 31:36 – Final advice for students inspired by her journey.

Breaking Societal Norms: Women Do Belong in STEM (Part 1)

Juliana Pereira is a trailblazer.

Raised by a single mother in Florianópolis, Brazil, she learned early that there is no limit to what women can achieve. Determined, ambitious, and fearless in pursuit of impact, Juliana began college at just 16 years old and earned her degree in journalism. But her vision extended beyond storytelling — she wanted to build, design, and reshape the world in tangible ways.

That desire led her to pivot from journalism to civil engineering — a bold decision that challenged societal expectations and traditional career paths.

Her journey has taken her across five countries, each experience strengthening her confidence, broadening her perspective, and reinforcing her belief that women absolutely belong in STEM fields.

Now at Purdue University, Juliana continues to break barriers and pave the way for future generations of women in engineering.

In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Juliana reflects on resilience, identity, mentorship, and the courage it takes to defy expectations.

Episode Summary

03:46 – Juliana reflects on her remarkable journey spanning five countries and the opportunities that shaped her.
 04:30 – What inspired her to pursue journalism — and what led her to pivot into engineering?
 08:10 – How her journalism background unexpectedly opened doors in extreme sports.
 09:14 – Her passion for acting and how her views on the industry evolved.
 10:43 – How her acting experiences strengthened her confidence in a STEM environment.
 12:47 – The profound influence of her parents — especially her mother — on her path.
 14:55 – Navigating university life as a woman in engineering and repeatedly proving herself.
 16:51 – Are there professions in Brazil where women struggle to fully realize their potential?
 18:14 – Transitioning from journalism to engineering and the mentor from Purdue University who helped guide her.
 22:11 – Piecing together her international journey across Brazil, Canada, the Netherlands, and the United States.
 24:27 – Traditions she has embraced along the way — including experiencing a White Christmas.
 26:31 – Cherished family memories and the values that keep her grounded.

Court’s in Session: Restarting a Law Career in a New Country

Rezarta Mataj had already built an extraordinary career at a remarkably young age. By 24, she had become a federal judge in Albania. Soon after, she built a beautiful family and earned recognition as an adjunct professor at both public and private law schools across the country.

By every measure, she had achieved success.

Yet, there was a quiet but persistent thought she could not ignore — the belief that she could create an even greater future for herself and her family in the United States.

In this powerful Season 2 premiere, Rezarta shares what it means to leave behind status, stability, and professional prestige to start over in a new country. From navigating the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery to transitioning from the courtroom to the classroom once again — this time as a student — her story is one of resilience, reinvention, and courage.

Now pursuing her next chapter at Arizona State University, Rezarta is steadily rebuilding her legal career, determined not only to reclaim what she once had — but to surpass it.

This episode explores identity, sacrifice, intellectual rigor, and the strength required to restart when the world already considers you accomplished.

Episode Summary

02:56 – Rezarta speaks about the beauty of Albania, what it means to be Albanian, and her recent trip home.
 05:25 – Her decision to move to the U.S. for a better life and the role of the DV Lottery.
 10:41 – Transitioning from a successful legal career to becoming a student again.
 15:09 – Key differences between the legal systems in the U.S. and Albania.
 17:25 – What drew her to intellectual property law.
 20:16 – A memorable case involving the French dictionary.
 22:52 – The importance of precision in legal language — especially in a second language.
 24:48 – Advice for friends, family, and students considering moving to the U.S.
 28:26 – Reflecting on challenges faced earlier in her career.
 29:21 – Rezarta’s secret dream (which she has already achieved).
 30:22 – The impact Arizona State University has had on her journey.
 34:04 – Favorite slang words in American English and Albanian.
 36:52 – Her husband’s dream of becoming a soccer referee and their shared future goals.

Moving Out of Your Comfort Zone (Part 2)

Valeria Rivera returns for Part 2 of her powerful two-part interview — and this episode goes even deeper.

In this conversation, we explore Valeria’s love of art, creative expression, and the inspiration she draws from her lived experiences. She reflects on the mentors, family members, and life moments that have shaped not only her artistic perspective, but her outlook on life.

We also discuss a topic that resonates with many international students: navigating the job search in the United States. Valeria speaks candidly about the unique challenges international students face, the resilience required to move forward, and the mindset needed to pursue opportunity despite uncertainty.

Though she is still early in her professional journey, Valeria has already made a meaningful impact — and this is only the beginning.

We are incredibly proud of her story and are excited to share that after graduation, Valeria will be joining the Study in the USA team — a full-circle moment that beautifully reflects the power of growth, courage, and community.

Episode 8 Summary

02:25 – Valeria reflects on becoming comfortable in who she is and how her early career experiences shaped her mindset.
 04:22 – Her capstone project and the inspiration behind it.
 10:19 – After searching for identity through her project, who does she believe she is now?
 11:45 – The most influential people in her life and how they shaped her values and creativity.
 13:53 – Her family’s coffee-growing business and the work ethic she learned from her parents.
 15:45 – Her first professional experience and the impact she made across 156 member organizations.
 18:36 – A thoughtful breakdown of a logo she designed and the meaning behind it.
 19:10 – The artists and creatives who inspire her.
 20:33 – What comes next in her journey.
 22:25 – The obstacles international students face in the U.S. job market.
 25:24 – A historical or influential figure she would spend a day with.
 27:18 – Looking ahead: On her 75th birthday, what would she hope people say about her legacy?

Moving Out of Your Comfort Zone (Part 1)

Valeria Rivera embodies the powerful growth that happens when you choose courage over comfort.

Originally from San Salvador, El Salvador, Valeria came to the United States as a shy international student unsure of her voice and place in a new culture. Today, she is just one semester away from earning her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Commercial Design from Lycoming College — and she has transformed into a bold, confident, and creative leader ready to share her voice with the world.

In this honest and inspiring conversation, Valeria shares how stepping outside her comfort zone changed her life. From overcoming language barriers and self-doubt to embracing leadership opportunities and campus involvement, she reflects on the mindset shifts that helped her grow into the confident person she is today.

This episode is about bravery, resilience, identity, and the power of growth.

Episode 7 Summary

03:07 – Did being shy hold you back from opportunities?
 04:09 – The campus groups and experiences that shaped her growth
 06:49 – Growing up in San Salvador
 08:22 – Choosing to study in the U.S. and at Lycoming College
 11:10 – The relationships that made Lycoming feel like home
 13:06 – Overcoming language barriers and finding her voice
 16:50 – Mindset shifts that helped her silence negative self-talk
 19:20 – Fear of failure vs. lack of effort
 20:40 – Advice to students in El Salvador unsure about their next step
 23:55 – Words of encouragement in English and Spanish

SEASON 1 — EPISODE 2

Faith, Family, and Finding Purpose Abroad

In Episode 2, we sit down with Pietro Rossini, a 29-year-old Xaverian Missionary from Salerno, Italy, currently pursuing his Master of Science in Journalism at Boston University.

Before beginning graduate studies, Pietro completed an ESL program at Framingham State University — an experience that helped shape his transition into academic and cultural life in the United States. Today, he is also the host of his own podcast, Mission Outlook, where he explores faith, culture, and global perspectives.

In this thoughtful conversation, Pietro reflects on growing up in southern Italy, the influence of family and mentors, and how travel and education helped him better understand himself and the world around him.

This episode explores identity, gratitude, purpose, faith, and adaptation — themes that resonate deeply with international students everywhere.

Episode 2 Summary

01:58 – Pietro’s upbringing in Salerno and the impact of family
 04:23 – How his parents influenced his path
 07:50 – What he is most grateful for
 11:22 – The most influential people in his life
 15:30 – A historical figure he would spend a day with
 17:32 – Reflections on legacy and belonging
 19:57 – The history and mission of the Xaverian Missionaries
 22:49 – His calling to missionary life
 26:00 – Launching his own podcast and pursuing journalism
 34:16 – Adapting to change
 37:14 – Expectations versus reality in the U.S.
 40:57 – Stereotypes about international students
 44:33 – U.S. customs he would bring to Italy
 45:28 – Italian traditions he would bring to the U.S.
 46:51 – His favorite part of the international experience