International Student Spotlight

Name: Duaa Buarish
Home Country: Saudi Arabia
Year & Major: Junior (Bachelor’s), Nursing
Languages Spoke: Arabic, English

What shocked you upon coming to the U.S.?

• The people here are very friendly; you can instantly have a conversation with a stranger you just met.
• Everyone is always so willing to help which allowed me to feel more comfortable asking questions when I was new to Valpo.

What do you like best about Valpo & the U.S.?

• I like how there are events that happen every year in downtown Valpo like the Popcorn Festival.
• I like how there are four seasons in Valpo; before I usually only ever experienced Summer and Winter. During the Fall season, I like watching the leaves turn orange and yellow and how the weather seems to be absolutely perfect.
• I love how you can walk most places in Valpo; it allows you to really appreciate the little things in life.
• In general, I like how you can find your own community in the U.S.; there is always a community for you. For example, in Illinois there are different towns dedicated to different countries.

If you were given a flight ticket today, it would be to…

• Japan, I have always wanted to visit Japan because it is so unique and there are a variety of new things I can try.