Daniela Angeles Galvan, Class of 2024
Guanajuato, Mexico
Major(s): International Studies and Theatre
Why did you choose Virginia Wesleyan University?
I was excited about living close to the beach. Also, I received a lot of support from the staff at VWU, so I could transfer to this school.
What were your first impressions when you arrived on campus?
I like the fact that the campus is small, you can get to class in less than 10 minutes, and it has a lot of great places for you to study. My favorite spot has to be Lake Taylor and the trails at Wesleyan Woods.
What is most different from what you were used to at home?
I have never lived on a campus before, sharing your personal space with people that you do not know can be challenging sometimes, but as you make friends everything gets easier. The food is also different from what I was used to back home, but the Boyd Dining Center offers international food during Worldly Wednesdays. Last year, they made one of my favorite Mexican dishes, chilaquiles!
What were some of your biggest challenges in adjusting to college life in another country?
Sometimes classes can be challenging when English is not your first language, but the professors always give you a hand when you have long papers due. Similarly, making friends can be overwhelming, luckily the people at VWU are very welcoming and are always willing to help you out.
What campus activities are you involved in?
I am the president of this year's chapter of Sigma Iota Rho. I currently work at the Lighthouse as the Program Coordinator for the Career Advantage Shadowing Program. I am also a volunteer for the Marlin Chronicle (VWU's Newspaper), and I have directed one of the plays for the One-Act Student Festival.
What advice would you give to other students coming to VWU from another country?
Take this incredible opportunity to meet new people and learn from great professors in a different country. Even though at first it might be a little scary, you might end up making lots of great friends! You will also have the chance to experience American culture, and travel around to beautiful cities.
What do you hope to do after graduation from college?
I would like to pursue a master's degree in International Studies at Old Dominion University, and get an internship in the Hampton Roads area.