by Babatunde Odofin
The Greensboro College International Programs has gained more recognition since its inception and has experienced significant growth and success under the leadership of Paula Wilder, the director of International Programs at Greensboro College. It is inspiring to see how Wilder has made a significant impact on the international programs on campus in just one year in office. With her vision to create a more welcoming and inclusive community, Wilder aims to establish global partnerships, benefiting both students and faculty.
The recent appointment of Katrina O’Neil as the International Student Advisor and Success Coach adds further momentum to the program’s development. Originally from Nashville Tennessee, she has lived in Greensboro for a few years and graduated from GC in 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in health psychology, along with minors in health science and religion. During her time at GC, she was involved in volleyball and swimming. O’Neil is enthusiastic about her new role and sees great potential for growth in the international programs. She recognizes the positive strides the program has already made and is eager to contribute to its future success. Working alongside Wilder, whom O’Neil regards as an experienced and admirable leader, she aims to diversify the campus by bringing in more international students, fostering new global partnerships and enhancing cultural awareness among GC students.
In terms of study abroad support, O’Neil encourages students to begin planning early, ensuring that their academic plans align with their travels, so they remain on track for graduation. She also highlighted the study abroad fair, “the first of its kind,” as a valuable resource for students to explore opportunities. Drawing from her own experiences as a former student, O’Neil is committed to helping international students feel welcomed and comfortable, leading tours and offering guidance to help them adjust to life on campus. Wilder, impressed with O’Neil’s connection to the student body, believes that her recent experience as a GC graduate enables her to relate more closely with students, making her an asset to the program. The International Programs office is focused on enhancing opportunities for studying abroad, encouraging students to plan early and align their academic paths with these experiences. With the collaboration between Wilder and O’Neil, the future of GC’s international initiatives looks promising, particularly in creating a more globally minded campus.
For this school year, GC has over ten new international students and the Collegian had the opportunity to interview two of these new students: Aatrox and Zac.
Meet Aatrox!
Who is he?
Zhiyi Wang is an international student at GC. He was born and has lived his entire life in China. He likes to be called Wang or Aatrox.
Facts about Aatrox
Class: Senior but 1st year in GC
Major: Digital Media Art
Favorite Sports: Basketball
Hobbies: Playing video games, taking pictures and walking
Missing about home: Chinese food, especially the noodle restaurant near his home
Why Greensboro College?
“I chose GC because I wanted to explore new places outside of China.”
What is your favorite part about campus life?
“I like the air conditioner. It is situated at every corner of the whole GC building. I like the GC dining as well; I love the food.”
Any future goals?
“I would like to have some experience in photography and videography to become a professional in the future.”
Any advice to future incoming students?
“Do not be shy and figure out what you want. Do not waste life and enjoy your time as a student.”
Meet Zac!
Who is he?
Zak Adlee Quindara Gumaya is an international from the Philippines. You can call him Zak!
Facts about Zac!
Class: Freshmen- 1st year in GC
Major: Business Administration
Favorite Sports: Triathlon, cycling and basketball
Hobbies: Reading books and going to museums
Missing about home: Seeing his family in person every day
Why GC?
“Coach Buxton from GC’s Triathlon club initially wanted to recruit my coach’s son in the Philippines to race for GC, so the option to study here with him was brought up to our family. I never pictured myself studying abroad so I am just very grateful to be here. I like it here and this is the type of environment. I have always wanted to be a student-athlete. While enjoying the peace this city brings, it also helps me focus on working on myself. Not too busy suburbs, surrounded by good people.”
What is your favorite part about campus life?
“My favorite part about campus life is being a student-athlete. Studying gives me a stronger sense of purpose while doing the things I love to do.”
Any future goals?
“My academic and personal goals for the first year are to establish a strong academic foundation, pursue sports, and manage other personal responsibilities.”
Any advice to future incoming students?
“I do not think I am the best person to ask that, but the approach I had towards college was to enter without any expectations and to come into each room with humility and just maximize the opportunity for growth available. Enjoy studying, enjoy working and just live the process.”
I hope this article gives you a better understanding of the Greensboro College International Programs and if you would like to get more involved, you can join the Greensboro College International Club (GCIC). The GCIC was created to encourage cultural exchange, build a community among international and domestic students and celebrate the variety of cultures at Greensboro College. It is a valuable resource for students, offering a welcoming and inclusive environment. The club is open to everyone, and we invite all to join. If you are thinking about studying abroad as well, please contact Paula Wilder (paula.wilder@greensboro.edu) for more information. Her office is always ready to help you through the application process.
The Collegian 