By Duaa Nael Al-Saleh
UNIVERSITY CITY, SHARJAH: Two international students from the International Exchange Office said in an interview on Oct.13 that they chose the American University of Sharjah even though their family initially opposed their decision.
“I am happy I did it, but my mother was unsure at the start since the traditional travel abroad experience for Americans is going to Europe and I did not want that,” said Parker Trost, an American student.
“My parents supported my choice, but my friends were shocked that I chose to go to AUS,” said Remi Darasse, a French student.
Trost said students abroad should not be hesitant to attend AUS because the campus is diverse.
“I am heavily trying to persuade my friends back home to attend AUS since it’s an opportunity to view a different culture we are not exposed to,” said Darasse.
Trost said the IXO encouraged them to attend extracurricular events organized by AUS.
“IXO allowed me to test the waters of what it means to be a part of the AUS community,” said Trost.
Darasse said the IXO ensured that the students arrived on Aug.18, one week before the semester started.
“IXO wanted to ensure that the students had enough time to explore the UAE and become comfortable in AUS,” said Trost.
