First day of school is always a bit nerve-wracking. Especially when you find yourself in a new country, speaking a different language, and with absolutely no familiar faces around you. But during orientation that very first day at American InterContinental University, I found a friend who played a big part not only in my decison to stay, but also in my overall university experience.
I remember vividly sitting on a very uncomfortable chair in the small room, looking at the unfamiliar faces around me and trying to read them. Where were they from? What had brought them here? What did I have in common with them? Suddenly a girl sat down next to me and introduced herself. She said her name was Tianna. Before I knew it I was in the middle of an interesting conversation and forgot all about my anxieties. That was the beginning of a great friendship.
On the surface we didn’t have much in common, but in many ways we were like two peas in a pod. During those first few weeks at AIU when I was having a hard time adjusting to life in the dorms and living with strangers, Tianna helped me see it from a different perspective. If it wasn’t for her, I am not sure I would have decided to stay.
Over the next couple of years there were few things we didn’t do together; we walked or rode our bikes to school, we both got jobs on campus, and for a while we even lived together. We inspired each other and encouraged each other to do more.
During my time at AIU, I met many people from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds who became, and still are, close friends. Looking back, that was was an education just as important as the studies themselves.
I want to hear more about this seemingly very interesting character named Tianna.
Oh Linda! I remember that day so vividly, too! Everyone used to joke that if they saw one of us, the other wasn’t that far behind on campus.
Remember Earnest? Wow, Im so glad you posted this, you fill my heart with joy as I remember all of our adventures! <3
Linda- what a great post! The decision on what school to go to, or to go back to school can be so isolated, you almost forget that you will be in class with other people. Then Orientation Day hits. Being an introvert, Orientation Day always freaked me out. I went to school online with AIU for my Master of Education, and like you, I found some great friends in the people I took classes with- going through an experience together- having the same classes, worrying about assignments, etc.- always makes for a strong bond. It always makes me feel better to know that other people are going through the same feeling that I am, and that they may be nervous too!
Bethany Irvin
Director, Success Center- Chicago
American InterContinental University
Signing up. I hope