These students come from different corners of the world and bring with them unique perspectives, experiences, and ideas. All of which enrich our academic environment and contribute to a more globalized business landscape.
International students at CityU are resilient and determined, absolutely. But that doesn’t mean studying abroad doesn’t have its challenges. Our international students can face challenges that include:
- being away from home,
- adapting to a new culture,
- struggling with currency exchange rates,
- and making significant efforts to finance their education and life abroad.
But, despite these challenges, our international students embody the spirit of dedication and perseverance in the pursuit of excellence. They have a thirst for knowledge and growth that transcends geographical boundaries.
We take pride in the achievements of our international students and alumni, who have participated in many social entrepreneurship competitions, created their own companies, and landed amazing jobs! We want to recognize and honor the remarkable contributions of our global community by sharing real stories from a couple of our international students. First let us introduce their names, degrees, and countries of origin.
Maria Fernanda Benitez
Degree: MBA
Country of origin: Mexico
Ky Luu
Degree: MBA
Country of origin: Vietnam
Philipp Feth
Degree: MBA
Country of origin: Germany

Kunjal Parikh
Degree MBA
Country of origin: India
Nitin Madhusoodhanan
Degree: MBA
Country of origin: India
Yogesh Goel
Degree: MSCS
Country of origin: India
Michele Quah
Degree: MBA
Country of origin: Malaysia
Chris Zhang
Degree: MBA
Country of origin: People’s Republic of China

What made you decide to study abroad?
Ky: I’m interested in exploring the world, learning new things from local people, and making friendships with people from different cultures and nationalities.
Michele: I wanted a career break and to gain knowledge to proceed to the next level in my career and change the environment I was in.
Yogesh: I decided to study a MSCS, abroad at City University of Seattle because of the university’s excellent reputation in computer science, the vibrant tech industry in Seattle, and the opportunity to experience a new culture.
What’s the best part of being an international student?
Kunjal: The best part is being able to share your country’s culture with others and also learn theirs. It’s really interesting to see how everyone has a different journey and how they perceive things differently.
Nitin: Meeting and interacting with new cultures.
Yogesh Goel: Exploring the American culture. Enjoying vibrant festivals like Halloween. I also love to talk with diverse people here at the university.
Chris: The exposure to diverse cultures and perspectives has enriched my life, helping me develop a more global outlook and foster meaningful cross-cultural friendships.
What are the biggest challenges of being an international student?
Maria: Missing birthday parties, holidays, and other special events with your friends and family back home. Not being able to work full-time creates financial worries. And the uncertainty of what will happen once I graduate.
Philipp: Missing home, financial struggles, and finding a job after graduation can be more challenging for international students, even when you have relevant work experience in your home country.
Ky: Expensive tuition and living expenses, which make you more dependent on parents’ support, limitation in resident status, and facing racism and hatred from some people in my neighborhood.
What advice would you give to an international student who wants to study at City U?
Philipp: Keep in mind Seattle is an expensive city, anticipate and prepare for that. And keep an open mind and explore the cultures you get in touch with.
Michele: Go for it! There’s nothing to lose and a lot to gain. Explore and keep learning, while you’re at it, enjoy the experience and have fun!
Maria: Make friends. Ask a lot of questions to your professors. Get involved in school activities and student clubs, you might add them to your soft skills or experience on your resume. Enjoy your time here!
Kunjal: The journey can be challenging, but City U makes sure you feel comfortable and confident with each step as you move forward towards your journey of achieving great heights. One pro tip is to ask questions whenever you’re in doubt. #ProudCityUStudent<3
We acknowledge the unique challenges faced by international students and will continuously work to offer resources and support to ensure their success. We strive to create an environment where every student can thrive.
Learn more about our international student programs.















