November 18, 2021
After receiving a scholarship to study at an American university for one semester, Mar Planelles-Imbernon decided to attend Shawnee State University. A native of Spain, she is studying Nursing in her home country and will graduate in 2023.
“I searched for more information about Shawnee and I thought it was a good place to go to continue my nursing studies,” said Planelles-Imbernon. “It is a good place to live an on-campus student experience.”
Passionate about her home country, Planelles-Imbernon has tried to find ways to merge her culture with some of the student organizations at SSU.
“I usually try to go to the Spanish Club to teach other people Spanish,” she said. “I also go to learn about other cultures that speak Spanish, such as Mexico.”
International students can sometimes experience culture shock when they arrive to a new country. For Planelles-Imbernon, she learned to adapt and is thriving in the United States.
“In the first weeks, I experienced a big culture shock due to the difference of time between Spain and the United States,” Mar said. “The language was more difficult than I thought, and mealtimes are different too. I got accustomed quickly after arriving.”
Enjoying her study abroad experience at SSU, Planelles-Imbernon encourages others to think about pursuing that experience.
“It is an unforgettable experience that will result in great friends and opportunities to open your mind,” she said. “You will gain new knowledge, learn a language, and experience the culture of different countries.”
SSU currently has fifty international students representing twenty-three countries who are involved in various academic programs, athletic teams, and student organizations on campus. The students are connected with resources through the university’s Center for International Programs & Study Abroad where they can connect with other international students as well as gain information on how to access assistance throughout their time on campus.
To learn more about international student programs and opportunities at Shawnee State University, visit shawnee.edu/cipsa.