Now designated the Brad Henry International Scholars, they can apply through their home university for an on-campus semester at Swansea. A separate Oklahoma programme also allows some scholars to spend term as interns at the National Assembly for Wales. The first Brad Henry scholars came to Wales in September 2008 and more arrived in January this year. They have given their Swansea University experience a glowing report. Oklahoma links go from strength to strength In 2007 Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry visited Swansea University and was so impressed he persuaded the State Regents to fund a semester-long scheme for students from regional campuses across the state. Now designated the Brad Henry International Scholars, they can apply through their home university for an on-campus semester at Swansea. A separate Oklahoma programme also allows some scholars to spend term as interns at the National Assembly for Wales. The first Brad Henry scholars came to Wales in September 2008 and more arrived in January this year. They have given their Swansea University experience a glowing report.
Nancy Pham from the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) came to Swansea in January for her semester as a Brad Henry Scholar as part of her International Business degree. Here she shares how much she has gained from the experience.
How did you hear about the Brad Henry Scholarship scheme?
A friend, and graduate from UCO introduced me to the scheme. I'm the first student from the University of Central Oklahoma to visit Swansea on the Brad Henry programme so I'm a bit of a guinea-pig!
What attracted you to Swansea?
When I researched Swansea University online, I was impressed with the facilities and programs offered. When I arrived here, I thought the campus was really pretty, everything is convenient and resources are readily available. And of course there is no language barrier!
Do you think that Swansea can be classed as an international institution?
Definitely; there are plenty of other international students here which makes this a good place for students from other countries to come and study at or visit, and Swansea is very welcoming.
What about the support you've received whilst you've been here?
I've had the highest level of support from my tutors; they have been very aware of my situation as a study-abroad student, providing a lot of advice on essays and exam procedures. The American Studies Office has also been very helpful. Overall, everyone I've encountered at Swansea has been friendly and helpful. It was great to get involved with the student community here. I joined the hiking club and went on some wonderful walks around Gower. This was a novelty for me as there's no hiking in Oklahoma; it's totally flat!
How do you think schemes like this help students?
I think schemes like this help students immensely. I feel like I've grown since being at Swansea, and gained my independence. Studying abroad means having to adapt to a whole new culture but it's such a positive experience and you learn so much from it.
How would you describe your experience to friends and students at the University of Central Oklahoma?
I will really miss Swansea! The six months I've spent here have gone so fast! It's been an incredible experience, and it has taken me out of my comfort zone. Studying abroad makes you realise there's more to life outside your own 'bubble'. It gives you a whole new perspective, a better understanding and opens your mind. Swansea has provided a great learning experience for me. I love Swansea; it's a really lively place, very beautiful, and I really have been welcomed with open arms. I couldn't have enjoyed my experience more anywhere else.
What are your plans now?
I'll be taking summer classes in Oklahoma and finishing my degree at UCO in the new term. I'll also be helping the International Office at UCO and advising prospective students on studying abroad. A lot of my friends are also interested in applying for the Brad Henry Scholarship scheme, so I can tell them all about my experience! I also plan to study for a Master's in International Business, maybe in Oklahoma, although I've been advised to come back to Swansea, which sounds like a good plan!
Angela Jones, Study Abroad Coordinator in the Department of American Studies, said: "We will welcome at least another 12 students on the Brad Henry Scholarship Programme to Wales during the 09/10 academic year and hopefully, as a result of the growing relationship between the State of Oklahoma and Swansea University, we may encourage more students to come and study at Swansea." "The new internationalisation agenda, together with the University's growing links with the State of Oklahoma promise great new opportunities for students studying across a variety of disciplines. It is our hope that Oklahoma will figure in our future plans to increase the number of students from Swansea studying in the USA."
During April, the Department welcomed two visitors from the University of Central Oklahoma, Dr. Richard Bernard who is the Dean of the College of Graduate Studies and also Dr. Evelyn Wilson-Martin, who is the Asst. Vice President of Academic affairs for undergraduates. Dr. Richard Carhart, who is the Executive Director of International Programmes at Northeastern State University, will be visiting Swansea in July and Chancellor Glen Johnson is expected to visit during mid September. Swansea University welcomes students from a number of American Universities on year abroad or semester programmes.
For further information visit: www.swan.ac.uk/sao