Yslam Akmyradov
Mary, Turkmenistan
entrepreneurship, organizational management
When I researched Kansas State University, I was glad that it is located in a college town and is on the list of the top universities in the world. The United States was my first country abroad. I never had experienced this kind of diverse culture. Thanks to International Student and Scholar Services and the orientation program, I learned a lot about college life and U.S. culture. When I was struggling to choose which major, entrepreneurship or management, my advisor said that I can double major. I was very excited about this opportunity to pursue both aspects for which I have passion.
How he chose K-State:
I applied for national scholarship and one of the requirements was to get acceptance from top universities in the world. I asked for recommendation to my uncle who is living in the US. He advised me to choose K-State. When I did research about Kansas State University I was glad that it is located in college town. Also K-State was on the list of the top universities in the world.
Transitioning to university life:
Transitioning to university life was very interesting. United States was my first country abroad. I never had experienced this kind of diverse culture. First couple weeks was very informative and vital part of my transition. Thanks for ISSS and orientation program I learned a lot of things about college life and US culture.
How K-State helps him reach his goals:
I remember when I was about to choose my major. I was struggling to choose which major I need to pursue, Entrepreneurship or Management. When I talked with my advisor she said that I actually can do double major. I was very excited about this opportunity to pursue both aspects that I have passion. Later I also learned that there are International business certificate and Data analytics certificate. Both of them was one of my future goals. I talked with my advisor and she helped me to manage to pursue both certificates. University has great program and options to make sure students will get knowledge on what they really want to study. They actually gives you opportunity to explore real world scenarios.
Advice for new Wildcats:
I would recommend them not to be afraid of new environment. United States has great programs to help international students to adjust to new culture and make sure they will have good transition to university life. Also I would recommend them to stay active and to get involved in campus activities. Campus has amazing resources and they are doing great events.
Fun facts:
I practiced all my language skills with native speakers. English, Russian, Turkish, Arabic. Still couldn’t understand how Americans manage to stay happy. Pizza is one of my favorite American food. (Actually it is Italian)
Involvement:
Wildcat Watch, crew member