Morghan Lemmenes / Winonan

Students take a thousand-mile journey to study at their ideal university. International students come from all over the world to call Winona State University their home for four years of their lives.

Cultural barriers have not stopped Marie Kasparova, originally from the Czech Republic, from coming to the United States not once, but twice.

“I was an exchange student in high school,” Kasparova said. “That was because I wanted to improve my English skills and explore a different country, and liked it so much I came back for college.”

There was one part of Winona State that attracted her the most.

“I like the science program,” Kasparova said. “I like the educational part about Winona the best because there are so many resources.”

Kasparova was not the only student who was captivated by the science program. Kapil Khanal came from Khepal to study science as well.

“Winona has a really good science program and I compared the curriculum to other universities,” Khanal said.

Though Khanal and Kasparova expect to receive their degrees from this experience, they do wonder whether or not they would be getting the same education they would have received in their countries.

“I feel like Winona should have less general education and more major education. Some of the classes need to be stricter because it is easy As compared to what I am used to. It is a lot harder to get As in Europe. You don’t just get an A for doing the work,” Kasparova said.

Classwork is not the only advantage to a U.S. education.

“There are more internship opportunities. Getting internships are a good way to start your career,” Khanal said.

International students start their career at Winona State by stepping out of their comfort zone and taking a once in a lifetime opportunity.

By taking this opportunity, these international students have been able to expand their educational experiences and global knowledge.