Bethia is a graduate student from Burma pursuing a degree in the Environmental Science and Policy program. She loves to learn languages and is currently learning French. Music is what keeps her going and Jazz is one of her favorite genres. She likes playing piano as well.
What surprised me while doing this interview was her interest in Bollywood, especially Deepika Padukone. The movie “Piku” is one her favorites. She could talk the entire day about it. :)
Here is the conversation we had:
NS: When did you first come to the USA and what were your first impressions?
I came 6 years ago to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and Environmental Studies. My mother’s younger sister lives in Florida, so she always used to ask my mother to send me to US for my studies. Also, I wanted more than what the Burmese University education was offering at the time. So when I applied for the course in Westminster College in Missouri, and was awarded a scholarship based on my academic background, I made the decision to study in the United States.
I always wanted to live in a happening city like NYC, but Missouri surprised me with the friendly nature of small towns and beautiful sceneries. I enjoyed my time over there.
NS: What do you miss the most about home?
The food and, of course, family and relatives.
NS: If you could change anything about Clark, what would it be?
I don’t think I’ve been here long enough or have been doing things a lot to make suggestions…but if I have to choose something, it has to be the radius of the Escort service (laughs). At least till the Union Station please!!
(Escort is a widely popular university-provided transportation service for all Clark students. Vans run within a radius around Clark and serve students for 12 hours everyday.)
NS: Why Clark and IDCE?
I had some friends who had graduated from Clark and always had some good things to say about the university. I did my research and Clark had great reviews for the ES&P program and its career centre. Another reason is being close to Boston which is one of my favorite cities.
NS: How would you like to keep your culture here?
I would love to be part of the cultural events taking place at Clark in order to represent the Burmese culture.
NS: What would be your advice for international students coming to Clark for the first time?
The first and foremost advice would be to pack lots and lots of clothes as you’re going to be in New England where weather is quite mysterious. (laughs). One thing specifically for Clark is to take advantage of the student mentors assigned to you prior to your arrival to Clark. You could ask them anything and they are very helpful. Most importantly, plan way ahead to give your visa sufficient time to be processed as I missed my orientation due to late arrival of I-20!!!
