Asiye from Turkey is a PhD candidate at the University of South Carolina (USC) College of Education. She is also a graduate teaching assistant with the International Accelerator Program, a collaboration between Shorelight and the university. Asiye guides first-year international students as they adjust to US culture, both in the classroom and out.
If you want to study in the USA, read on to learn more about the International Accelerator Program at the University of South Carolina and how Asiye helps improve student experiences.
Asiye’s Journey to the University of South Carolina
After completing her master’s degree at Indiana University Bloomington in 2018, Asiye was in search of a PhD program where she could apply her knowledge in cultural relationships and help international students in the US. A friend recommended the University of South Carolina, and Asiye decided to apply. She got in, and also began working as an International Accelerator Program graduate teaching assistant at the beginning of the fall semester.
As an international student herself, Asiye knew the graduate teaching assistant role was a great fit. She has the skills and expertise to guide students on how to understand, adapt, and overcome the challenges of culture shock. Her International Accelerator Program course, primarily geared toward inclusivity and multicultural perspectives, draws from both her personal and professional experiences.
“We are teaching students ... to easily transfer [from] high school life to [college life], how to survive on campus, where to go, what to do, and how we can get them used to the American campus system [and the] American education system, because our students are coming from [a] variety of countries in the world,” she explained.
“The position gave me this chance to get to know [international students],” she added. “They are young people and they are learning very new things on campus. I am really happy to accompany them [on] their journey.”
International Students Receive Dedicated Support with the International Accelerator Program
To guide students through the challenges of living in a new country, Asiye and the USC International Accelerator Program advisory team provide expert-designed support programs from orientation all the way to graduation. During orientation, each student services advisor helps international students with a particular area.
“We organize the tables like stations, so in the first station, when they first come in, they get their name tags,” Asiye explained. “Then the second desk will be doing something different, like having them log in to their USC email account. The third gives some information about the dormitory. We have a total of six desks that we all [are] taking care of like a checklist.”
During orientation, the student services team provides welcome kits, including all bedding essentials, to assist students in settling into their new surroundings during their initial weeks at school. Additionally, advisors are on hand to aid students in the process of moving into their new rooms.
Asiye also walks with the students around the dorms and campus overall, to familiarize them with how to get around, encouraging students to visit advisors whenever they have questions or need support.
“Our doors are open,” she said. “We are waiting to answer their questions!”
Student Life at the University of South Carolina
Ranked #13 in Learning Communities by U.S. News & World Report, the University of South Carolina offers students a welcoming and supportive environment to study in the USA. Asiye is particularly proud of USC’s top-ranked academics — all set against Columbia’s temperate climate and close proximity to big cities.
“It is really nice weather — it’s not snowing,” Asiye said. “It’s also very close to Charlotte, Charleston, Atlanta, and other places [students] can enjoy.”
Overall, the University of South Carolina offers a diverse and engaging campus life to ensure students have opportunities to make friends and build connections during their studies. By participating in clubs and organizations, students can enhance their interpersonal skills, network with students from other departments, and enjoy cultural events from around the world on campus.
Off campus, Columbia can be a home away from home for international students, with local grocery stores stocking ingredients from many different countries and restaurants offering international cuisines.
Asiye’s Advice for International Students
“My biggest suggestion would be: do not hesitate to ask,” Asiye said. She encourages international students to communicate with advisors and know that the USC campus is a safe place to discuss any challenge. Asking for guidance enables a smooth journey and creates a positive learning environment to focus on academic and professional goals.
Asiye explained that, as an international student herself, she understands what students may feel and experience. “We have all been there — in different situations and all [situations] have challenges,” she said. “Do not hesitate to ask, because when you have a calm mind, you will [thrive] in your studies!”
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