Anhelina, student at ASA College, New York

Anhelina Honcharenko applied to ASA College, New York, for the spring semester of 2017. After preparing her documents and the nerve-racking visa process, she arrived in New York in early February and began an exciting new life.

Avers Express helped me get into ASA College in New York, obtain FormI-20 and a visa, and deal with practical matters such as finding an apartment and buying a flight ticket.

About the college itself: I expected a little more! The main advantage for me is that teachers speak English, rather than explaining things in Russian as they might back home. It gives you more practice understanding what people say. I am not entirely happy with the teaching, although perhaps it is because it is only my first month and an introductory course. Anhelina is currently taking language classes and will start the main programme later—editor's note. Maybe things will improve.

I received a warm welcome. The staff are very friendly and explained everything. Classes are interesting. Some teachers try to keep things light and humorous, which makes learning more comfortable and memorable. There are also some whose classes I would rather not attend, for various reasons. I also like that students come from many countries. Studying involves getting to know others, having interesting conversations and exchanging information. The students are friendly and generally very good people. There is certainly no time to be bored.

Difficulties on arrival: while you are still at home looking for housing, try to check it carefully, read reviews and perhaps write to former residents. Accommodation can involve problems and minor scams. That happened to me. It might not happen to you, but bear it in mind. Other everyday things—getting around, the subway, text messages and cards—were fairly simple for me. Housing starts at 400 a month and upwards, depending on the neighbourhood and whether you want a hostel, shared room or single room. People working as nannies have an easier time because they live with the family. The drawback is being tied to the family and having fewer acquaintances and friends.

There is plenty of entertainment for all tastes. Food and entertainment are not too expensive, so you can afford almost anything. You can earn money, but you need persistence, confidence and a clear idea of what you want. Work involves many difficulties, but you overcome them, get used to things and learn how everything works. It becomes easier as you gain information, and there is plenty of information if you are sociable. Within a week, you may find yourself processing an enormous amount. That happened to me: I tried to learn everything at once. If you know you are staying for a while, do not rush to do everything immediately. Take things in order; sometimes too much information can be confusing. People are sociable and kind, and it is easy to make contact. People introduce themselves on the subway, in cafés—everywhere. I made many good acquaintances that way. The main thing is not to be afraid. I have difficulties speaking, but that did not stop me discussing any subject. People help, and word by word, after a couple of hours you realise you have been talking as comfortably as in Russian or Ukrainian. There is no cultural barrier: it does not matter who you are, where you come from, your nationality or beliefs. People accept you as you are and do not judge or gossip—except, perhaps, people from back home!

I cannot give a universal piece of advice because it depends on the situation. The main thing is to be strong inside and ready for anything. People are right when they say New York is for the strong. You need to withstand its pressure, but once you have got through the hard moments, you are lucky: live and enjoy it! It is wonderful here. I feel as though I have come home.