The International Student Experience

International students navigate the journey from culture shock to finding a sense of community.

Making up a portion of the Marist community, international students share their experiences attending school in Poughkeepsie. Photo provided by Ariel Alter '28

Starting college is an adjustment for all students, especially for those moving to an unfamiliar country with a completely new educational system. 

Marist College has welcomed international students from all over the world, from places such as Nepal, India, Romania and Uruguay. Their majors range from fashion merchandise to computer science.

Some international students found out about Marist by conducting research or speaking with their school consultant or counselor. Many also highlighted the school's exceptional fashion program, which has received recognition from notable sources, including Vogue. 

“I knew I wanted to be in New York majoring in fashion, and my counselor suggested Marist," said Kamila Guasque '28. "I liked that it was only two hours away from New York City.”

Additionally, Marist allows students to transfer their International Baccalaureate credits, and this was one of the main reasons Ariel Alter '28 chose Marist. "I wanted my credits to transfer, so I don't have to take the same classes again," she said.

Many students also reported that Marist was one of the only schools that gave them a good scholarship. "A lot of schools don't really consider international students for any type of financial aid,” one student said.

While conducting research on colleges during the COVID-19 pandemic, Kresha Koirala '25 found herself impressed by Marist’s admissions office. "They would respond very quickly and answer all of my questions," said Koirala. 

International students were granted access to campus a week earlier than domestic students. They were able to participate in various events and activities to get acquainted with each other, the U.S. school system and everything Marist has to offer. They were also given an opportunity to properly adjust to the time difference prior to classes starting.

"I got to spend a lot of time with other international students, and we were able to bond over how new everything was. It made me realize that I am not alone," Alter said.

"The hardest part about adjusting was the culture shock. The hospitality and social norms were very different from where I'm from," Koirala said. "I had to learn how to adapt not only to the physical environment, but also the social environment.” Overall, she noted that the international student experience has helped her grow as a person.

Navigating unfamiliar social norms and traditions ultimately becomes a pathway to greater understanding and personal development. Koirala observed that this year, there are more international students than when she started at Marist her freshman year. 

This year during family weekend, Marist took a group of international students to New York City. Additionally, during academic breaks, international students are given the option to stay on campus.

Koirala encourages all students to be involved on and off-campus. During her time at Marist, she has been able to participate in three fashion-related internships, such as working with American Eagle. She also serves as the president of the Fashion Club and is involved with the Marist International Student Association, the sustainable fashion club and the Outing Club.

The journey of international students is more than just an academic challenge — it's also an opportunity for personal growth as they dive into a new cultural landscape. While the initial experience of culture shock can be disorienting, it also opens doors to new perspectives, helping students become more adaptable and resilient.