The Host: Hello everyone and welcome back to the Student Affairs Podcast Series. My name is Daniel Pinto, and I will be hosting this episode. Today we have a special guest Janice Kim, Interim Director of International Student and Scholar Services. Janice leads UofL’s global efforts to produce international prominence for the university community. On this week’s podcast we will talk about why international students should choose UofL, what life is like in Louisville and much more. Stay tuned, so you don’t miss a lot of interesting information. Thank you for coming Janice, how are you today?
Janice Kim: I am doing well. Thank you for having me.
The Host: Of course. Yeah. So pretty much the main question that interests many students, including international students like myself, is why should they come to Louisville? Why should people come to UofL of everywhere?
Janice Kim: At the University of Louisville there are over 200 degrees and credentials offered with a wide range of different fields of study. However, one field invariably demonstrates and is impressive among our international community. AND that is the strong interest in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics or also called the STEM fields. The International Office recently conducted a survey with our international community and we asked them why they chose the University of Louisville. And the top responses were (PaUSE) to apply for an advanced degree at UofL, a myriad of research opportunities, because of the quality of the academics and faculty, and to obtain work, internship, and other practical training experience.The University of Louisville is a top destination for international students because of the quality of learning experiences and the value of these degrees particularly in the STEM fields. AND We also continue to be ranked one of the top most valued R-1 Research Institutions!
The Host: Yes, I think these are great points and also myself being an international student. I am part of the STEM fields and that was a big decision point for me too and I was looking at.
You know, we see my other options, but no following up this question. What could you tell us about your perspective, kind of what life is like in Louisville.
Janice Kim: Louisville is becoming so vibrant and more culturally diverse than ever! You will fall in love with the university life and learn that the city is deeply-rooted in the Cardinal pride immersed by the athletics programs. Also, we cannot forget the rich culinary tradition brought by the local and global cuisines along with great bourbons and the Mint Julep known as the official drink of the Kentucky Derby, a horse race held annually on Churchill Downs. The city is so full of history and legacies, such as the birth place of the legendary Muhammad Ali as well as museums and art galleries, one of which is the Speed Museum close to campus. And, there’s always something exciting happening and there are many, many activities for everyone including families. The night life on fourth street with live music, the many parks and hiking trails around the metropolitan area, the big four bridge to get some exercise in, the Louisville zoo for the children, and the Kentucky Kingdom Amusement Park with friends and family! Louisville, KY would be a top and ideal destination for our international students and scholars. Not to mention, Louisville is a very affordable and low cost for living.
The Host: Yeah, I mean, I absolutely agree. Pre COVID, I was here in 2017 and 4th St always had something going on, especially the live music. I'm glad they're bringing it back fairly.
Fairly fast, so that is very true. And also, I feel like most cameras’ campuses are located in small college towns where there isn't much to do really. Besides, if you're not part of athletics, it's just pretty much studying and being at home, I feel like we were fairly, you know. And then you know, what are the facilities and support available for students on campus kind of moving forward from that.
Janice Kim: Of course, for our International Students and Exchange Visitors, the International Office, which is located on both our Belknap and HSC campuses is here to support and answer any questions you may have! You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram by searching UofL ISSS. The whole Student Affairs Division, whether the Counseling Center, the Dean of Students Office, even our Campus Recreation, are here to help and support our international community. For more information, you can find us on the website at Louisville.edu/studentaffairs. Furthermore, those that are seeking assistance for on-campus housing, we have also partnered very closely with the director of University Housing and they’re team to promote the Global Village Themed Community as an option for our international students and exchange visitor. We also do not want to omit our marvelous and various Student organizations and faith communities that are so passionate in assisting our International Community. One in particular, the International Student Council is always opened for new members to join and collaborate events! There are so many wonderful support around our campus that wants to see our international community thrive and succeed!
The Host: No, definitely. I mean, I completely agree with that.
And last but not least, how would you describe the international community in today's day at like on campus?
Janice Kim: The International Student community is filled with such diverse ethnicities, cultural backgrounds, but most all, they are recognized as the most influential minds and global leaders! Some of our brightest students are international and are pursuing advanced degrees. They contribute so much to the university campus, but also to the whole world. All in all, the international community here at the University of Louisville is special and truly provides greater insights towards our globalization efforts.
The Host: Well, thank you, Janice, for coming today and sharing with us this important information. We really appreciate you here. Thank you. Take care!
Janice Kim: Thanks. It’s my pleasure.
The Host: For our listeners for more information go to louisville.edu/studentaffairs.
Also did you know that the UofL Writing Center can help with any point in the writing process, from getting started, to writing the first draft, to revision and copyediting. Visit: louisville.edu/writingcenter
For those still looking for housing for the next semester, check out the UofL Housing and Sublease Community on Facebook and Instagram. They always offer housing solutions for everyone.
Finally, we would like to give a shout out to UofL grounds crew for maintaining our title of “The Most Beautiful Campus in Kentucky”.
That was all for today, thank you to our listeners for your time and attention. We hope this was useful information for you and we look forward to seeing you again on our next episode. Take care. See you next soon!