Seung Hee Lee - South Korea

My name is Seung Hee Lee. I am a student at Santa Ana College, where I am majoring in Human Development (Early Childhood).

When I first came to Santa Ana College from South Korea, I was too shy to talk with Americans. In the Korean culture, you do not talk to strangers. You can imagine my surprise with I visited the campus Tutoring Center and an assistant walked up and gave me a hug, just like an old friend. She noticed that I was uncomfortable and seemed to read my mind. She went on to say, “Your face was familiar and friendly.” I experienced culture shock, but in the end I was able to learn from the experience and, I have a new friend. Now I can hug very well without shame.

Santa Ana College is one of the biggest community colleges in Orange County. It is only a twenty-minute drive to Newport Beach, Disneyland and other wonderful tourist attractions. The educational system at Santa Ana College is wonderful. For instance, programs offered to students such as tutorial, computer, math and writing centers are very helpful and free of charge. I have received great assistance at these centers, as do many other international students.

Because we have a small number of Korean students, I have had more opportunities to speak English with native English speakers. I rarely meet Korean students in classes, so I am not tempted to speak in Korean. As a result, my English skills have improved.

The college also offers students job opportunities in offices, departments and centers all over campus. Students are hired to work in the library, computer and language labs, cafeteria, Tutorial Center and many other places on campus. Last semester I worked in the International Student Center.

The International Student Association also sponsors a variety of events for students. One of the major events is the annual International Festival, where the foods, arts and crafts and entertainment of many cultures are on display. Another popular event is the Spring Ball (dinner and dance).

As an international student, I strongly recommend Santa Ana College to anyone who wants to study in the USA. It is one of the best community colleges in the USA.