Although UVA is a state school filled with American students, it is also home to a significant amount of international students. Not only are many of these students incredibly spirited Hoos, but they also help create a sense of international diversity here on grounds. We interviewed two of our favorite international students to get their opinion on UVA and its community.
Name: Adriana Giorgis
Year: 1st
Hometown: Rome and Milan (live between the two)
1. What made you choose to attend an American university?
My father went to a US university so he always wanted for my sister and I to come too.
2. What attracted you to UVA specifically?
The architecture school. It was also the only ‘well rounded’ college I had applied to, offering all sorts of Majors. It was only after I got my acceptance letters that I realized I did not want to be in art/architecture schools only.
3. What is the most interesting thing you’ve learned about American students from your experience here so far?
Just the general openness and willingness to meet new people :)
4. What are your favorite things to do on or off grounds here in Charlottesville?
Off grounds: Going downtown to see art galleries openings on Fridays.
On grounds: Slacklining in the sun!
Name: Saskia Feldman
Year: First
Hometown: London
1. What made you choose to attend an American university?
I chose an American university because I wanted an experience out of my time here. In the UK you study one subject for 3 years, but here in the USA I get to study a liberal arts education; any subject I want… I even found a new major in anthropology which I previously thought was about bones! (Turns out that’s archaeology)!
My day does not consist of me just going to lectures and coming home, but I have a variation of class sizes from lectures to seminars, club meetings to go to, lunch plans with friends. The USA provides a college experience not just an undergraduate degree!
2. What attracted you to UVA specifically?
When looking for the ‘American experience’ no other university provides you with the great academic standing of UVA and the amazing social scene. The people here clearly form a community that cares about it students and that’s why UVA felt like home to me!
3. What is the most interesting thing you’ve learned about American students from your experience here so far?
They are very friendly, they will literally talk to anybody! That’s exactly how I was at home… That’s why I got kicked out of England…
I never feel like an inconvenience asking any questions, such as directions! I love how happy and friendly Americans are; it makes this university a great place!
4. What are your favorite things to do on or off grounds here in Charlottesville?
Going downtown and trying new restaurants is always so much fun! My current favourite restaurant is Citizen Burger- best burgers in town! Also crepe shack!
If you wanna go apple picking and enjoy apple cider with Apple doughnuts go to Carters Mountain. What’s more, you can take beautiful new profile pictures here!