When searching for schools to study abroad, Garcia came across HPU’s website.

“I saw it online and thought the school was so pretty and had a high school musical vibe,” Garcia said. “The facilities are great and the professors are always available to assist students.”

Garcia quickly learned about culture shock. She claimed being positive and genuine is essential to managing it.

“It is something that every international student goes through,” said Garcia. “It does not matter how social you are. It is important to be yourself.”

Garcia recommends international students to not come with prejudgements, but to be open-minded to differences.

While there are many differences between the culture in the United States and Hong Kong, Garcia was surprised by the prominence of ice in the water.

“In Hong Kong, we drink warm water. Even in the winter, people put ice in their water here,” said Garcia.

Garcia enjoys the morning snacks and water provided at the kiosks and the fire pits outside of Cottrell Hall. She commented on other differences, including the food in the United States.

“The servings of food here are large, and even the grocery carts in places like Walmart are huge,” Garcia said.

She explained that the grocery carts in Hong Kong are less than a fourth of the size of those in the United States. Garcia can confirm that Asian food in the U.S. does not compare to authentic Hong Kong cuisine.

“I miss the Asian cuisine. A lot of Asian food here is very different because it has been Americanized,” Garcia said.

Garcia also expressed her gratitude for the resources available to international students like her.

“I appreciate the support that HPU gives to students,” said Garcia. “Even when they were not running shuttles at the end of Fall break, they made sure I made it back to campus by using a third party car service.”

Garcia looks forward to the rest of the semester at HPU and in the US.