Get to know Dr. V. Ramya Lakshmi through this international student feature post.
International student feature: Dr. V. Ramya Lakshmi
Concordia’s international students courageously step into a new country to pursue their personal and academic goals. This international student feature shares one student’s experience as an international student here at Concordia University Wisconsin & Ann Arbor. Keep reading to learn more about current MBA – Healthcare Administration student Dr. V. Ramya Lakshmi.
Tell us about yourself.
I’m a consultant pathologist, and I have completed my MBBS and MD from India. Overall, I’m a fun-loving girl, always smiling, laughing, giggling and goofing around. My hobbies are dancing, cooking, gardening and badminton. I like exploring new things, learning about people, and communicating with them. My favorite food is Indian cuisine. I love eating healthy, but my favorite American food is cheese curds.
I’m from India, which harbors diversity, culture, and tradition. Many languages are spoken here. Our favorite Indian traditional attire for women is a saree which makes every woman out there beautiful. Indians eat a lot of spicy food filled with tangy flavors. Butter chicken remains the most admired and loved Indian food among many people, including both Indians and Americans.
What are you studying here at Concordia University?
I am pursuing my MBA healthcare administration program in Concordia.
What are some of your long-term goals?
My long term goals include to be a successful doctor and help as many people as possible.
What places do you want to visit/experience while you’re in the US? Why?
I would like to visit Times Square in New York and the Statue of Liberty.
Where is your favorite place to study on campus?
My favorite place would always be Concordia International Center.
Is this your first time experiencing a Wisconsin or Michigan winter? How have you handled it?
It was difficult for me. I’ve never experienced these cold temperatures before. I learned to dress fashionably while keeping myself warm during this winter. I’m in love with winter coats.
How can faculty, staff, and the International Offices best support you while completing your program?
They are all amazing. I have never had faculty and staff be this helpful, and the International Offices were helpful, too. They are the best.
How many languages do you speak?
I speak English, Hindi, and Telugu.
What advice would you give to students who want to study in a different country?
It’s a great opportunity to get to study abroad. You can learn different cultures, learn different languages, eat different food and cuisines, get to know people, and explore different places. Ultimately, you get to have fun and enjoy the best time of your life.
How can American students make their international classmates feel welcomed?
I have had the best of friends in U.S.A.! I made very good friends at Concordia! We have a lot of fun, and we help each other out. I love my friends here. My heart is full of gratitude and respect for them.
What has surprised you most about living and studying in the US?
The thing that amazed me a lot was that people in the USA are very humble and grateful. The lifestyle is amazing. The fresh breeze is amazing, most importantly the beautiful lake Michigan and our campus view is something I look forward to everyday after school.
Do you want to know more?
Are you feeling inspired by Dr. V. Ramya Lakshmi’s international student feature? To learn more about life as an international student at Concordia University, visit us here.
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