Name: Dr. Kholoud Al-Qubbaj
Hometown: Palestine
Associate Professor of: Humanities

"I am a professor of humanities at Southern Utah University. Throughout the five years I have taught at SUU, I have enjoyed the beautiful campus, close-knit faculty and diligent students. SUU is the best place to be."

Name: Bailu Gongsun
Hometown: Wuhan, China
Major: Masters of Public Administration

"I think studying in the U.S. has a focus on individual's critical thinking, communication and leadership abilities. The professors like to inspire our own creativity and support us to make our dreams happen. I feel so free here and I realize there are so many opportunities available. All the people I have met at SUU; no matter faculty, staff or advisors; they are all very helpful, warmhearted and patient. They are dedicated to service in our university, especially for students. All of my professors are knowledgeable, responsible, and understanding.

"I think one of the most important things for me has been gaining more independence. It has become increasingly clear that I realize who I am, what I tend to do and what I am capable of.

"My favorite experience so far is my summer internship at the Mayor's Office in Cedar City. Because my major is public administration, I greatly appreciate this opportunity to observe and practice real government management. I do learn a lot in this setting which I could never gain from my textbooks. "I think one of the attractive points of SUU is the size of our campus. You get to know new friends or professors easily; the study environment is quite simple without distractions. There are many interesting sports activities; nearby metropolitan cities like Salt Lake City and Las Vegas, great internship programs and job opportunities; and beautiful national parks."

Name: Bianca Zhang
Hometown: Changsha City, China
Visiting Professor of: Music - Vocal Performance

"The teachers at SUU are serious and desire to create an exceptional learning environment for each student to excel in their chosen field of learning."

"SUU's campus is very beautiful and there are many enjoyable extracurricular activities to enrich student's lives and give them an outlet for creativity."

"In my work as a visiting scholar and professor for 7 months, I have been very happy meeting and working with other professors and students and I love it here!"

Name: In Seok Choi
Hometown: Busan, South Korea
Major: Nursing

"Before I came to SUU, I always thought that big universities were competitive and offered more qualified education to students. However, my university, SUU, makes me realize how narrow- minded I was. Someone said small or big - it's just a number. Considering the quality of education by the size of the university doesn't make sense. SUU's size makes the learning environment suitable for me. Further, making friends is more comfortable and it is easy to have more meaningful friendships. Also, SUU has great faculty."

Name: Kenneth
Hometown:Yaounde, Cameroon
Major: Chemistry - Health Care Emphasis

"I wanted to come to a university in a small town, like Cedar City where everyone is kind. I became a part of the university in no time. You get to make so many friends from different cultures and backgrounds. There is so much interaction with professors and students. Smaller classes enable one-on-one experiences with faculty members who are willing to help. In addition, there is a great pool of resources available to students."

Name: Philippe
Hometown: La Rochelle, Cameroon
Major: Finance

"I chose to study in the United States because of the superior education system. Receiving my degree from a U.S. university will make me more competitive throughout the world in obtaining employment. The United States is a place of great opportunities and it offers me many options for my future and for my career."

"At Southern Utah University, it is just amazing to see how the staff, faculty, as well as advisors bond with the students. They are so friendly, helpful, and caring in all aspects of the student's education. This relationship takes away a lot of the stress and frustration that presents itself to all students, not just international students."

"Two of my favorite activities at SUU are the International Food Fair and basketball season. I also like meeting with the other students between classes to just visit.

"Studying in the United States has been a great experience in my life. I have leaned more since arriving at Southern Utah University than I have at any other time in my life, not only in the classroom but also in my social life. Because of this experience, I am more open to people, see life differently, and have a much better perspective in human relationships."

"Receiving my degree from Southern Utah University in the United States will open many more doors of employment opportunities especially when I return to my country. I will be able to have a much better job and a much better life as well. I will have more respect and be more valued in my country because of the education I have received in the United States."

"I would and will encourage other students that I come in contact with, if at all possible, to attend Southern Utah University to further their education. It is not only a great school with a loving and encouraging staff, but Cedar City, Utah, is a beautiful, peaceful, and safe place to live. It is a diversified campus and city where students can get acquainted easily and share the beauties of their cultures. It is the Rising Future."

Name: Saki
Hometown: Nishinomiya-Shi, Japan
Highest degree earned: Bachelor of Arts in Dance Education

"I believe SUU has the best educational environment in the country. My professors weren't just teachers or educators. They were my life models who provided high education and motivated students to become better people as a whole. I love SUU and this place is my home forever."

After graduating from SUU, Saki interned at The John F. Kennedy Center in Washington DC to expand her experiences. Her duties included assisting in the programming, developing, implementing and marketing of special events, educational publications and performance discussions and demonstrations with creators and artists. Saki is now working in Washington DC for the Washington Ballet at the Town Hall Education Arts and Recreation Center (THEARC ) as a dance instructor.

What were your initial thoughts when you arrived in the United States?

"When I first got to America, I didn't know what to do or who to ask. I met a friendly Cedar City family on the air plane and they took me to dinner and offered me a ride to my destination. They are my American family and make me comfortable and relaxed. I was surprised with Cedar City's friendly atmosphere."

Can you describe the classroom environment?

"Small class sizes at SUU helped me to be active in the classroom. I felt comfortable because my professors knew me."

What did you enjoy most about student life at your school?

"Being involved in it! I loved being part of Student Government as an Arts & Entertainment Delegate because my peers were highly motivated and working with them was absolutely stimulating. As a president of Orchesis Dance Company, I lead company members, choreographed a piece, and acted as artistic director. These incredible experiences have been useful in my career."

How did studying in the United States change you?

"My four years at SUU were significant in my life. The experience gave me time and opportunities to figure out what I wanted to do. I had many interests when I came to SUU. General classes were important for me to ultimately determine what I truly love. Also, studying abroad made me realize how proud I am of myself and my country."

What was the faculty, staff, and advisors like at your school?

"My professors weren't just teachers or educators. They were my life models who provided high education and motivated students to become better people as a whole."

Do you have any advice for future students thinking about studying in the United States?

"Making friends was the key to the success of my college life. Even though I couldn't speak English well, I didn't hesitate to talk to people. I went to all the school activities to make friends and they made my college life meaningful."

Why did you choose your school?

"My English teacher's sister was an SUU graduate and she suggested I attend. I didn't apply anywhere else."

How do you think your education in the United States has helped you in life?

"Coming to study in the United States by myself made me more independent. Doing everything on your own makes you physically, spiritually, mentally and emotionally stronger. It also made me appreciate my family a lot more."

Name: Dr. Hussein Samha
Hometown: Palestine
Associate Professor of: Chemistry

"At SUU, students come first. SUU offers quality teaching and small size classes that help students connect with their professors. Therefore, students enjoy a friendly, personalized learning atmosphere across campus."

Name: Shang Hyon Kim
Hometown: Geoje-si, South Korea
Major: Business

"Hi! This is Shang Hyon Kim. I'm an international student in SUU. When I came here, I was scared. The reason was that I wasn't familiar with the USA. However, with care and help from professors and friendly classmates, I was able to suit myself into SUU and I am grateful for that. SUU has given me a great opportunity. I strongly recommend Southern Utah University for other international students. Why do you hesitate? Come to Southern Utah University!"

Name: Dr. Shobha Gurung
Hometown: Kathmandu, Nepal
Assistant Professor of: Sociology

"I like the campus community and I appreciate having both traditional and non-traditional students in my classroom. I value SUU's effort and focus on embracing global experiences, civic engagement and community-based learning opportunities."

Name: Shubhashis Gurung
Hometown: Kathmandu, Nepal
Major: Finance / Pre-Dental

"I probably have a slightly different perspective from other students being a transfer student, but I can say this much, SUU has a roster full of passionate and resourceful professors. I feel like professors are willing to be extra patient with international students because they know that studying in an American college is a big transition. Apart from that, the campus is in the mix of lovely hills and mountains which reminds me of Nepal. This definitely adds to its charm. The international student population is steadily growing which is a very positive thing. Lastly, I invite international students from all over the globe to experience a very unique and fulfilling college education here at SUU."

Name: Wira Samsuddin
Hometown: Alor Star, Malaysia
Highest degree earned: Master of Science in Forensic Science

Why did you choose the United States for your education?

"I chose the United States for my education because my country did not have Computer Forensics courses available during the time that I decided to further my study. Other than that, from the source that I trusted, USA is one of the best countries to go if you need to get more hands on experience in the Computer Science or Computer Forensics field."

Why did you choose SUU?

"I chose SUU for three reasons. First, SUU was the first university to offer me an opportunity to pursue my master's degree. Second, I was really touched with how the Admissions Officer (Trudy Smith) handled my admission process to SUU. Third, SUU is among the few universities (during the time that I applied for my master degree) to offer Master of Science in Forensic Science (Forensics Computing)."

How has studying in the United States changed you?

"Although I study in the USA, I know a lot of international friends and lecturers. For example, I have friends or lecturers from France, Ghana, Mexico, India, Germany, China, Palestine etc. This is good exposure and experience for me. In fact, I can speak French now and I'm looking forward to study other international languages if I have the opportunity to return back doing my PhD in the USA."

What was your biggest challenge in coming to the United States?

"One of my biggest challenges in coming to the United States was to obtain a scholarship. I had to attend an interview and to fight with 300 other candidates from all over Malaysia in order to get selected and awarded with a scholarship for my study. Additionally, I had to attend and to pass the English Language test in order to qualify me to study in the United States."

How has living in the United States changed your impression of Americans?

"The Americans are beyond my expectations. Before I came here (USA), people told me that American people do not like Muslim people since 9/11. However, when I came here, all of the talks are contradictory. Not only I am accepted (because I am a Muslim), but I also have a lot of good American friends. In fact, it feels like living with my own family here."

Name: Xun Sun
Hometown: Hunan, China
Associate Professor of: Director of Orchestral Activities

"SUU is a relatively small university so students and faculty have the opportunity to work closely together which is very hard to find in larger universities. I know most of my students on a one-on-one basis. As faculty members, we are able to pay full attention to each individual student."

"I also enjoy the diversity of faculty members at SUU. They each bring something unique which enriches our college culture. This is a wonderful institution where you can really experience the American culture. State-of-the-art facilities along with a helpful learning environment make SUU a great place to study. The geography is unique and the location is set close to the mountains. You will find SUU to be a safe place to earn your degree."

Name: Dr. Shalini Kesar
Hometown: Delhi, India
Assistant Professor of: Information Systems

"SUU is located in a small town that is diverse in its culture. I enjoy it here because of the students. They feel so privileged to gain exposure to the world through the faculty and students at SUU. Additionally, our faculty members support experiential, hands-on learning as a part of the curriculum for all students."