Ximena Motta Hernandez from Colombia transitioned from the English Language Program at VCU to a master’s in public administration. She values the resilience of her home country and her experiences in Richmond, appreciating the supportive academic environment. Her successful project in Colombia highlights her commitment to community improvement, while her current studies underline her ambition for professional growth.
Ximena Motta Hernandez, a recent participant in the English Language Program (ELP) at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), is now pursuing a master’s degree in public administration at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs. Originally from Colombia, she values her experience in the heart of Richmond, appreciating the blend of academic rigor and cultural enrichment provided by VCU.
Colombia, Ximena notes, is characterized by the resilience of its people and vibrant cultural expressions. Nestled in South America, it boasts diverse geographic features from green mountains to the Amazon jungle, without conventional seasons due to its equatorial location. Known for its exceptional coffee and rich biodiversity, Colombia offers a warm welcome to visitors, enticing them to stay longer.
Ximena chose VCU to immerse herself in an American educational environment, specifically a highly ranked English language program. She found the vibrant atmosphere in Richmond, Virginia, appealing, enhancing her overall experience as an international student.
A standout experience for Ximena was her initial arrival to the United States, where she marveled at Virginia’s expansive treetops from her plane window, encapsulating the city’s charm. She was also pleasantly surprised by the plethora of daily activities and robust student support systems available at VCU, alongside Richmond’s ecological landscape that offers tranquility despite urban access to major cities and coastal areas.
In Colombia, Ximena led an impactful project that connected internet access to small remote towns, overcoming significant legal, political, and technical challenges due to the country’s rugged terrain. This initiative significantly improved the quality of life for residents by enhancing access to education and information.
During her time in the ELP, Ximena navigated connections with her younger classmates despite her significantly varied life experience. The program fostered a sense of intercultural family, allowing her to engage meaningfully with others while benefiting from constant academic support from educators and tutors.
As she transitions to her master’s program, she is eager to secure an internship for professional growth while exploring Virginia’s scenic landscapes.
Ximena encourages new international students to focus on personal and academic growth. She highlights the ELP’s demanding nature as essential for practical language acquisition and underscores the value of engaging with fellow international students to broaden cultural perspectives while appreciating their own heritage.
Ximena Motta Hernandez’s journey illustrates the enriching experience of international students at VCU, characterized by academic pursuits and cultural exchanges. Her background reflects Colombia’s resilience and beauty, and her achievements in bringing internet access to remote towns underline her commitment to societal impact. Through her experiences in the ELP and now in a master’s program, she emphasizes the importance of embracing academic challenges and cross-cultural interactions for personal growth.
Original Source: news.vcu.edu
