By: Ava Clements, Lion’s Eye Staff Writer, aac6165@psu.edu 

Penn State Brandywine is a proud host to many international students, many of whom have come to the United States to pursue both athletic and educational opportunities. 

 Among them is Sofia Guzman, a talented soccer player from Cali, Columbia, who moved to the area in August to enhance her athletic and academic excellence. Guzman’s experience thus far highlights the enriching experience that international students bring to campus.   

“I came here to study and play soccer,” said Guzman. With the hope of one day becoming an FBI agent, Penn State Brandywine’s forensic science major made the decision to attend school here that much easier. 

“In Columbia my major is not available, so my parents encouraged me to go to the U.S. and play soccer and study my passion,” said Guzman. 

Soccer is another one of Guzman’s many passions. “I played soccer for six years and I was on a semi-professional team back in Columbia,” said Guzman. 

She has truly been able to build a great community with the members on the team–making her transition to the U.S. even more special. 

“Soccer is such a huge part of my life, and it has been so fun; I have met really incredible people,” said Guzman.  

With soccer being such a universal sport, Guzman found coming to the U.S. and Brandywine an easy transition. Luckily, there are many outlets and resources for all international students through the Multilingual and International Student program. The coordinator of the program, Debbie Ousey discusses the number of international students who have chosen to study here at Brandywine. 

“As of mid-August, we have thirty-seven students here on visa status who are considered international students,” said Ousey.  

The Multilingual and International Student Program is a great asset for all international students, even inside the classroom. 

“We have certain courses that are just the same as regular college courses, but we infuse information relevant to different cultural backgrounds into the class,” said Ousey.  

Regarding the education that Guzman was accustomed to back in Columbia, she recalls many differences that she has adapted to since relocating. 

“In Columbia, during your first year, the university would give you a schedule.  So, finding out that I was able to select my own classes was great,” said Guzman. 

Education was not the only cultural shock she has encountered since moving. “In Columbia we are very warm people, we just hug each other all the time; but here, that closeness, is not that common,” explained Guzman. She has been able to adapt to the culture here in the U.S. while still embracing her Colombian roots. 

Guzman is happy with her decision to move from her home in Columbia to follow her athletic and academic aspirations. With the support of the Multilingual and International Student Program, all international students at Penn State Brandywine have access to numerous resources, making it an excellent environment to call home.