Reflections on Life at NYU
Varittha Fuangfu is a graduate student at the Wagner School. She is from Thailand and is the chair of the OISS AdvisoryBoard. Varittha shares her thoughts on being a new student at NYU.

Had you lived abroad prior to studying at NYU?

Before I started graduate school at NYU, I had been living and working in New York City. Prior to that, I had gone to college in Pennsylvania. I also spent a few months in France during high school, in a language program.

What were your first days at NYU like? What do you think are common challenges that new foreign students face?

Since I was already familiar with New York City, my first days at NYU probably weren't as hectic as other international students'. I still had to familiarize myself with NYU's buildings and administrative departments, but was so glad to come back to school that it didn't matter!

I think that the challenges that many new foreign students face come in stages; first, the shock of arriving in a new country hits as soon as they step off the airplane. Homesickness may set in a few days into their stay, made worse when the students are faced with the many details of settling in (like moving into a dorm or apartment, trying to open a bank account, buying the things necessary for everyday living). The cost of living in New York City will probably surprise all students at some point.

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