Esther is an international student originally from Malaysia studying in the USA. In this interview, she tells us how leaving her home country to study in America has changed her life. You can also read Esther’s blog at: www.estherchin.com

Why did you decide to move from Malaysia to the USA for your education?

Not only do I believe that the education system in the USA is better than the one in my country, but because the USA is the only place where I can experience a small amount of what every culture has to offer. It’s true when they say that the USA is the world’s melting pot, so why experience one culture when in the USA I get to experience them all? Moreover, I have always had a liking towards the USA even when I was younger. So when I had the chance to work and travel in the USA last summer, I took that opportunity to look for universities. After doing some research and survey, I decided to apply for Western Michigan University’s fall 09 intake.

In your blog you talk about the sacrifices your family have made for your future, what are the sacrifices your family has had to make and have you had to make any yourself?

With the money my parents had saved all these years, they could afford to retire early but because I wanted to study in the USA, they are willing to adjust their goals to help accomplish mine. Because of that, I’m very grateful for my parent’s sacrifice and choose to do my best in my studies.

How has the decision to study abroad changed your life?

I grew up. Back at home, I stayed with my parents and everything was taken care of by them. I did not need to do the laundry, iron the clothes, cook my meals and even transportation was provided as my mother would send me out and back most of the time. Since being in the USA, I have had to start taking care of myself. I realised how spoiled I was back at home when I have to be independent here. I’ve learn to be more thankful for the things that I have, as opposed to how I used to be unsatisfied with so many things I had back at home. I had also learned to appreciate my parents more and realize how much they love me when I see them willingly sacrifice so much for me and my future.

How have your perceptions of the world changed since you moved abroad for your education?

Living back at home, I used to think quite cynically. It was hard for me to believe that anyone was interested in more than their own needs. When I came to the USA I began to realise that this is not always true. It’s true that I’ve experienced my share of jerks since I’ve been here, but I’ve also encountered a surprising amount of help, encouragement and friendship. When I used to think about studying in the USA I would imagine a lot of things, but I never imagined that I would walk away from it all with a more selfless attitude and a somewhat less cynical perception.

What do you miss most about Malaysia?

Definitely my family. I miss my parents, sister, grandparents and my two Australian Silky Terrier dogs a lot. The saying ‘absence makes the heart grow fonder’ is very true to me because I used to take my family members for granted but now when I’m away from them for such a long period of time, I find myself appreciating them more. I even find myself talking to my grandparents more than before, now that I’m calling back home. The other day when I was done talking with my maternal grandparents, I realised that we have been talking for two hours already and I don’t think that I had ever in my life talked to them for such a long period of time face to face before, but I did it over the phone. Then again, it can be sad sometimes. I usually can not talk to my paternal grandparents for long since their hearing isn’t good anymore. I am always dehydrated after talking over the phone with them but it’s still worth it!

Why did you choose to study Mass Communication and what career path do you hope to follow?

To be honest, it’s because I prefer to be heard over listening. It’s not that I’m completely uninterested in what others have to say, it’s just that I’ve always felt as if I have a lot to say myself. I’ve always like to convey messages to broad audiences. My blog is the perfect example. So, for the most part, I chose to study Mass Communication because of two things: Firstly, because I feel I’m good at it and secondly because I’m most interested in it. As for what career path I choose to follow, I’m afraid I can’t quite answer this question yet. I do know that I would like to work here in the USA but as far as in what path… I’m going to have to wait until I’m a bit further in my studies to say for sure.

Would you recommend studying abroad to other students and why?

I highly recommend taking the opportunity to study in a foreign country to experience a new culture and broaden your horizons. I believe that studying abroad would strengthen your personality and make you come out of the comfort zone to step out into the real world.