International Students

Student Spotlights: Therese Strand

Curious about life as an international student? We asked your burning questions to current and former students!

What is your background? Where are you from and when did you arrive at CSUMB?

I am an exchange student from Norway, and I attended CSUMB the spring semester of 2018.

What are you studying at CSUMB, and what do you hope to gain from your exchange program? Do you feel that CSUMB is helping you achieve those goals?

I was taking Humanities & Communication and Social & Behavioral Sciences classes here at CSUMB, through this I wanted to learn how to write and communicate better in English. I am studying to become an English teacher in Norway and I feel that my semester at CSUMB has taught me a lot about the American language and culture, which will help me in my future teaching career.

What is your favorite aspect of studying at CSUMB?

The area is my favorite aspect of studying at CSUMB. The location of the school is beautiful and I will miss this place a lot.

What is your favorite restaurant in Monterey?

My favorite restaurant in Monterey is Bubba Gump Shrimp. A Taste of Monterey is also nice!

What have you learned about life in the U.S. that you hope to bring back to your country?

I have learned to be more open to talking to strangers. I learned a lot from seeing how different American culture is to the Norwegian culture. I also met a lot of other international students and learned about their cultures as well.

What has been the hardest challenge of adjusting to life in the U.S.?

I think the hardest challenge has been to live so close to others, and not having a private space of my own.

What do you miss most from home?

I missed my family and friends the most.

What is one thing that a new international student must do during their time in Monterey?

I recommend new students to drive by the coast and stop by Big Sur.

What is your favorite spot on the CSUMB campus?

My favorite spot on campus is the Student Center.