Rutgers University is proud to welcome more than 7,000 international students from around the world to our campuses each year. Rutgers Global’s International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) team supports our international community by providing services and enriching experiences from their arrival to Rutgers to graduation and beyond. Some of our international students choose to become Orientation Leaders (OLs) at our International Student Orientation events, held in the fall and spring. These OLs volunteer their time and energy to ensure that new international students arriving to Rutgers feel welcomed and prepared to start their academic journey at Rutgers.
Here is one of our OLs, Beatrice Colclough from Staffordshire, England, who shares a bit about her experiences at Rutgers along with some of her favorite things.
Why did you choose to come to Rutgers?
Rutgers is the perfect balance of everything I was looking for in my university experience – D1 rowing, a successful nutrition program and a big university near to one of my favorite cities, New York.
What are you studying at Rutgers?
I’m currently undeclared, but hoping to pursue a Nutritional Science degree, with a Dietetics focus.
Where is your favorite place on campus and why?
It would have to be the Rutgers Farm on Cook/Douglass campus. I was born and raised on a farm, and it feels like a piece of home—and somewhere I love to visit!
What is the thing that surprised you most when you came to Rutgers?
I was surprised by, but also love, the Scarlet Knight pride! There is a strong tradition and love of Rutgers by many, past and present. It is so cool to attend events such as football games and see so many students and alumni come together to support other Knights!
What is your favorite restaurant in the area and why?
I love to visit Sakana. They do some of the best sushi I have ever tried.
What do you do when you are not studying?
My main pastime enjoyments are rowing, photography, and playing piano. I am part of the Rutgers women’s rowing program, which I have really enjoyed so far, and photography and piano allow me creative outlets where I find great fun.
Why did you decide to become an Orientation Leader?
I chose to become an orientation leader as the information I learned and people I met during my own orientation were integral in helping me find my feet here. I wanted the opportunity to provide new international students with the same support.
What advice would you give to a new international student at Rutgers?
Lean on the support systems around you. Moving to a new country with a different culture and education system is a huge adjustment, and it takes time! And also, take advantage of the vast number and variety of opportunities on offer. Say yes to everything you can as you never know what doors it will open for you.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I hope to have completed my undergraduate degree and be finishing my master’s degree – in dietetics or endocrinology, in preparation for my future career.
Learn more about International Student Orientation, coming up on August 26-28. 2024.
Learn more about becoming an Orientation Leader.