Glendale Community College’s international students face many challenges while studying abroad from their home countries, such as loneliness, isolation, and higher education costs. However, GCC, along with the help of the neighborly staff and counselors at the International Students Office (ISO), aim to create a healthy community for its international students.

The ISO staff employs a friendly, hospitable approach to student counseling. “We really hold their hand through every step of the way so that they don’t feel scared or alone,” said ISO counselor Irene Shim. Whether it’s setting up phone plans, searching for housing, or even helping students find methods of transportation to get to school, ISO strives to make the transition from overseas to Glendale a smooth one. “One thing I love about GCC is that the counselors are like friends to us. My counselor, Murray [Stach], always has snacks in his office and is very knowledgeable and skilled at what he does. When I first came to GCC, I felt intimidated seeing a counselor, but the staff here genuinely wants to help everyone. Murray is the absolute best,” said Steffi Castillo Lee, an international student. 

However, international students still face a few challenges, despite efforts to reduce them. “Prior to 2019, there were about 400 international students enrolled at GCC, but now there are only 100,” recalled Shim. The drastic drop in students means that the international community on campus is less robust. 

A clear disadvantage faced by international students is exorbitant tuition fees. A GCC class that costs $100 for a California resident can cost up to $400 for an international student. Additionally, international students must be enrolled full-time in order to remain eligible for a student visa, and cannot take more than one remote class per semester. 

In spite of the obstacles that international students face, there is still an abundance of opportunities and experiences for them at Glendale Community College. The college frequently hosts events where international students can meet and connect with one another. Glendale natives can also help make GCC a welcoming space for international students by offering to show them around town and show them what Glendale has to offer, suggested Shim. “Being an international student comes with a lot of challenges, but I would say it’s worth it. It’s a very rewarding experience that has allowed me to grow and become more independent,” observed Lee.

Eliana Amour can be reached at [email protected].