Bugyeong Lee

Bugyeong Lee

South Korea
Dankook University
Business Administration
Spring 2026

Why did you choose WSU?

I chose WSU because I wanted to experience studying in a completely different environment from my home university. I was curious about how classes in the U.S. are structured and how students participate in discussions. I also thought it would be a great opportunity to step out of my comfort zone, improve my English, and experience a new culture while studying abroad.

What has been your favorite experience so far?

One of my favorite parts of being here has been the small everyday moments, like talking with classmates after class or spending time with friends on campus. Since there are not many exchange students here, I've had more opportunities to interact with local students and experience campus life from their perspective. I've also really enjoyed going to WSU basketball games with my friends. Watching the Shockers play and feeling the school spirit was a really fun experience.

What has been your experience with the buddy program?

The buddy program has been really helpful for adjusting to life here. There are many activities and programs that help international students feel more comfortable and supported. I especially like that the buddy events give us chances not only to spend time with our own buddy but also to meet other buddies and international students. It's been a great way to make new friends and feel more connected to the community.

 

Matheo Guerrero Paredes

Matheo Guerrero Paredes

San Lorenzo, Paraguay
Universidad Nacional De Asunción
Aerospace Engineering
Spring 2026

Would you recommend WSU to other BECAL-CPK students?

Of course! Because regardless of your major, you're going to have plenty of opportunities either to learn something new or to meet new people. There's also lots of events hosted on campus that you can attend. If you need help with anything while staying here, you can also reach out to the many different departments on campus and they will gladly help you.

Do you have a favorite course you are taking? Does it contribute to your degree?

Yes, actually two! The first one would be Aerospace Propulsion 1, because I've been learning a lot about how plane engines and rockets work. The other one would be Flight Structures 2, because I have the opportunity to use different engineering softwares that otherwise I'd probably never have the chance to use. They contribute to my degree by allowing me to have access to resources that I don't have back home and by knowing how things are taught in a different setting than my home country, that helps me get a better picture of how the things I learn work.

What has been your favorite experience so far?

Definitely the snow. I've never seen it before, so when I experienced my first snowfall ever during my second week here, it was awesome. Although, I wasn't a fan of how cold it got.

Sofía Cantero Salvioni

Sofía Cantero Salvioni

Asunción, Paraguay
Universidad Nacional De Asunción
Business Administration
Spring 2026

Why did you choose WSU?

I chose WSU because it offered the most complete and well-rounded academic program for my major. I was also drawn to the university's infrastructure and the many years of history it has built over time, and I felt confident it was the right place for me.

Are you getting any unique experiences that will contribute towards your career? Such as a class, a project you are involved in, etc.?

Yes! All the classes I chose are very valuable and contribute greatly to my major in Business Administration. I feel a special connection to each of them. However, the class Successful Negotiation has been especially meaningful to me because I feel it is helping me develop the negotiation skills I have been wanting to strengthen.

What is your favorite part about studying abroad at WSU/Wichita?

What I enjoy the most is that there is always something new happening every day — new people to meet, unique activities to participate in, and a beautiful campus to walk around and enjoy.

 

Waka Watanabe

Waka Watanabe

Japan
Aoyama Gakuin University
Business
Fall 2025

Would you recommend WSU to other exchange students and why?

I would recommend WSU to other exchange students because WSU has a friendly environment for international students. Every time I have any problems, various kinds of services help me. There are also many opportunities to interact with people outside of campus.

What has been your favorite experience so far?

My favorite experience is the trip to Kansas City with friends I met at WSU. We enjoyed driving and visiting tourist attractions there. Especially, making our countries' cuisine and talking all night.

What is your experience with our international buddy program?

I really enjoy time with my buddy. She takes me to many places, such as shopping malls, nice restaurants, and cafes. This program is very helpful for exchange students because my buddy supports many things related to campus life.

Marten Hacke

Marten Hacke

Germany
Hamburg University of Applied Sciences
Electrical Engineering
Fall 2025

Why did you choose WSU?

Studying abroad at WSU gave me the opportunity to take classes that weren't available at my home university. This allowed me to focus on subjects I'm truly interested in and to develop new skills.

What has been your favorite part about studying abroad at WSU/Wichita, KS?

My favorite part of studying in Kansas was definitely the freedom and variety of opportunities available at WSU. I truly felt that I could focus on things I enjoy and gain valuable experiences.

Would you recommend WSU to other exchange students?

Absolutely! Apart from studying, Wichita is the perfect base to travel from and explore the rest of the U.S.

María Belén Aguilar

María Belén Aguilar

Pilar, Paraguay
Universidad Nacional De Pilar
Business Administration
Fall 2025

Why did you choose WSU?

I saw numerous opportunities here in my major of Business Administration, particularly in areas I am interested in, such as technology and innovation. They offer great support for international students. I was even allowed to present my virtual reality project "San Juan Dice Que Sí!", an immersive experiences about traditional Paraguayan festival.

Would you recomend WSU to other BECAL-CPK students and why?

Aboslutely yes! WSU has excellend professors and strong support for international students. You can also join many student clubs depending on your interests, which is a great way to meet people and feel part of the community.

What is your experience with our international buddy program so far?

My experience with the International Buddy Program is awesome! Gabriel became a really good friend. He helped me with everything and tried to understand me even when my English wasn't perfect. He showed me many places and supported me with my assignments. Without him, my experience would not have been the same.

Ana

Ana González Gómez

Spain
University of Deusto
Computer Engineering
Fall 2024

Are you getting any unique experiences that will contribute towards your career?

Yes, I'm getting hands-on experience through my classes and projects, which is directly preparing me for my career in computer science. WSU has great teachers who are always willing to help you out.

What has been your favorite experience so far?

My favorite experience so far has been meeting new people and getting to live the American college experience. WSU has such a welcoming community, and connect with students from all backgrounds has been amazing.

Why did you choose WSU?

I chose Wichita State University because I wanted to experience American culture while pursuing my education. WSU stood out for its welcoming community and strong support for international students, which made it the perfect environment to immerse myself in U.S. culture.

Bettina

Bettina Fleitas

San Lorenzo, Paraguay
Universidad Católica De Asunción
Psychology
Fall 2025

Why did you choose WSU?

I chose Wichita State University because of its strong academic reputation and the opportunities it offers for international students. I was also drawn to the supportive environment for research and professional development, especially since I wanted a place where I could grow both academically and personally. Many of my friends from Paraguay recommended WSU to me as well, and hearing about their posivitve experiences really helped me decide.

What has been your favorite experience so far?

My favorite experience so far has been meeting people from all around the world and learning about their cultures. I've made great friends, and it's been amazing to share experiences both inside and outside the classroom. I also really enjoyed exploring Wichita, from campus events to trying local food and traveling around Kansas. Every week brings something new to learn or discover.