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Student spotlights

Curious about life as an international student? We asked your burning questions to current & former students! Read their answers below.

“When my plans to study in California were canceled due to the pandemic, I chose to continue as a virtual international student at CSUMB from Madrid. Despite time zone challenges, language barriers, and remote learning obstacles, the support from professors and classmates made the experience rewarding. Studying online at CSUMB taught me discipline, resilience, and reaffirmed my dream of one day experiencing California in person.”

Major: Journalism
Home Country: Spain
Program: Virtual Exchange (Spring 2021)

“Moving from Canada to Monterey Bay to study at CSUMB challenged me to grow in ways I never expected. Through academics, campus involvement, and mentorship opportunities, I built lifelong friendships and gained confidence both personally and professionally. CSUMB pushed me to take risks, get involved, and fully embrace the experience.”

Major: Business Administration, Marketing
Home Country: Canada
Program: Bachelor’s Degree (Class of 2020)

 

“Transferring to CSUMB gave me the opportunity to build close relationships with professors and thrive in a supportive learning environment. The small class sizes and stunning coastal location made my experience both academically rewarding and personally meaningful. I feel incredibly grateful for my time at CSUMB and the foundation it gave me as I begin my professional career.”

Major: Human Communications
Home Country: Sweden
Program: Bachelor’s Degree (Class of 2020)

“Transferring to CSUMB was one of the best decisions I’ve made, allowing me to finish my degree while competing as a student-athlete in an incredible coastal setting. The academic quality, supportive faculty, and opportunities through International Programs made my experience both challenging and rewarding. CSUMB prepared me for my next step as I pursue graduate studies in Washington, D.C.”

Major: Business (International Business & Management)
Home Country: Sweden
Program: Bachelor’s Degree (Class of 2020)

 

“Studying at CSUMB allowed me to explore new creative disciplines and expand my skills beyond my engineering background. The small campus, welcoming community, and coastal location made it easy to connect with others and feel at home. My experience abroad motivated me academically and deepened my appreciation for different cultures.”

Major: Communication Design (Electrical Engineering at home institution)
Home Country: Netherlands
Program: Semester@ (Spring 2020)

“Studying Biology at CSUMB has brought me closer to my dream of becoming a health professional through hands-on research opportunities and a supportive academic community. From the first semester, I found encouragement from faculty, staff, and peers who helped me grow academically and personally. My experience taught me to step outside my comfort zone and make the most of every opportunity.”

Major: Biology
Home Country: Philippines
Program: Bachelor’s Degree (Class of 2022)