The Foreign Exchange Program at Northwestern State University offers students from both NSU and various countries the opportunity to travel abroad with over 300 institutions to pick from. The program helps students gain the opportunity to experience different cultures while continuing their educational careers through NSU.
Angel Saldivar is a senior English major who studied abroad in Canada and participated in the program because it allowed her to get out of her comfort zone and try new things, meet a variety of people and enjoy a different culture.
“Being alone in a different country can be challenging if you don’t make the most of it,” Saldiver said. “I found myself saying ‘Yes’ to everything and forming new and exciting memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life! Through this exchange program, I befriended a lot of other international students from all over the world. It was easy to feel alone at first, but I let my worries go and tried to be as social as possible, which definitely paid off!”
To participate in the program, students must put an exchange request in, give information on their educational status, receive references, participate in an interview and supply other necessary documents for traveling into and out of different countries.
Axelle Jenni is a junior English major from France who has had a positive experience alongside the staff working with the Foreign Exchange Program. “They’re really nice to me and have been there to help through any of the administrative issues or questions that I have,” Jenni said.
Jenni has also made several great memories during her time at NSU. “I really enjoyed the Christmas Gala and graduating ceremony at the president’s house because it’s something that we don’t really have in France,” Jenni said. “It’s quite unique, and getting to experience that and take part in it with the other international students is just really fun.”
Anna Paulsen, a junior criminal justice major, is also a foreign exchange student from France. She wants other students considering the program to not overthink the decision. “If you want to go, just go! There’s nothing to lose, and so much to gain. You’ll create incredible memories and it will be an experience you’ll never forget.” Paulsen said.
It is truly a special and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many to be able to study, live and explore the different worlds around them by studying abroad. NSU is proud of the community of international students they have welcomed to Natchitoches, and encourages all NSU students to consider traveling abroad.
