A Day in the Life of a Computer Science Student and Theater Actor

I woke up around 9 a.m. today, ready to tackle some homework. First on my list was working on my computer science labs, which are due on Monday. I wanted to get them out of the way so I could focus on other assignments. I like to finish as much homework as possible during the …

Student Life (First Month)

Introduction: One Month in Holland, Michigan So, here I am, an international student from Central Asia, Uzbekistan, and I’ve been living in the beautiful town of Holland, Michigan, for about a month now. Let me tell you, it’s been quite the ride so far—full of new experiences, new friends, and way too many trips to …

Adapting to a new environment

Introduction Hello, everyone! I am Alan, but my real name is Asan Kosimov, I chose Alan as a second name because it’s easier to pronounce and remember in the West. I’m excited to be here today to talk about a subject that I think is fundamental to not just surviving but thriving in this world: …

Finding My Way Through New Worlds

Almost three years ago, I was preparing for a journey that would change my life in ways I couldn’t yet comprehend. At 17, fresh out of my junior year in high school, I was preparing to leave Afghanistan for the United States. I didn’t even know where my new school was located, nor what life …

First-Year Experience at Hope College

Hope College Hope College, nestled in the charming town of Holland, Michigan, is a place that fosters academic excellence, personal growth, and community. Surrounded by beautiful nature, this safe campus provides an ideal environment for students to explore their passions. Whether it’s academics, extracurriculars, or social life, Hope College feels like the perfect home away …

Going Global at Hope

Hope College prides itself on being a campus with a global focus. Just recently was Going Global Week, hosted by the Center for Global Engagement. The week held a number of events to provide information about other cultures and the opportunity to engage therein – everything from an International Food Fair to a photo contest from …

How Ghana Changed my Life

Let me take you tell you why studying abroad in Ghana has been nothing short of the best trip I have taken. Buckle up, because this journey is about to unfold into a tapestry of vibrant cultures, delectable cuisines and life-altering realizations. Embracing the Culture: A Lesson in Rich Traditions From the moment I set …

Hope College Global Engagement: Your Ticket to study around the World!

As I walked through the Detroit Metro Airport with my strategically stuffed backpack and my rolling suitcase in hand, the feelings of excitement, anticipation, and wonder fluttered within me. Heading to the security line, I tightly hugged my parents and brother goodbye as they smiled radiantly and spoke with words of encouragement. After placing my …

Away From Hope

Has it ever occurred to you that you can earn credits for course requirements off Hope’s campus? Have you heard someone talking about studying abroad? From a first-hand perspective I can tell you to go. Go out. Explore the world studying abroad. Take a month, two months, or if you are zealous, take an entire …

Don’t Question Studying Abroad, Do it.

On Admitted Students day of 2019, I listened in on a panel with staff from the Fried Center Global Engagement Office as they described the many opportunities that Hope offered to study abroad. I went home to my mom, and told her that I was considering studying abroad at Hope. Her response was simple: “Do …