Meet Kim: IU Indy International Student Ambassador

Kim Nguyen is an international student from Nha Trang, Vietnam, studying Informatics and Media Arts & Science at Indiana University Indianapolis (IU Indy). As an international student ambassador, Kim connects with prospective students who are interested in studying in the U.S. at IU Indy, sharing insights and guidance from her own experience.

1. Why did you choose to study at IU Indy? 

As an international student, financial aid is one of the most important factors when choosing a school to commit to. IU Indianapolis gave me the opportunity to be studying abroad with financial support. My major in Informatics and MAS was also a big factor where I can combine my creativity in art and interest in tech together. Other than that, it is located downtown Indianapolis, where I find it is easier to connect with professionals in my field and look for job opportunities post-grad. 

2. How important was the international student community to you when researching schools?

It’s definitely one of the things I considered. Having an international student community was important to me because it gave me a sense of belonging while adjusting to a new country. IU Indianapolis has felt very diverse and welcoming to me. Having a community that you can connect and share things with is definitely great.

3. How important were internship and career outcomes to you when choosing a school?

They were the most important factor I considered when choosing IU Indy. The school has helped me prepare not only with technical skills, but also with things like my resume, portfolio, networking, and internship search.

4. What are some memorable on-campus jobs or internship experiences you’ve had?

I found my first on-campus job during my freshman year, which helped me become more involved with the school. But my favorite one is definitely working as an International Student Ambassador at the Office of International Affairs. Working here has helped me learn more about resources available to international students and connect with faculty, staff, and other student workers. It also helped me expand my network and become more confident talking with different people on campus. 

5. What student organizations are you involved in at IU Indy?

I joined many clubs as a general member and became Public Relations chair for the Vietnamese Student Association. I have met many cool people through these organizations. In VSA, my role helped me develop skills in social media strategy, graphic design, video editing, and communication. One of the promotional videos I created reached around 10,000 likes on Instagram and helped our organization gain more recognition on campus and beyond.

6. Why did you join as an admissions ambassador? 

I wanted to help out my peers so they can have a wonderful experience while being away from home. As an international student myself, I understand how confusing the application and transition process can feel.  I wanted to help prospective students feel more comfortable, answer their questions, and give them a better idea of what to expect when coming to IU Indy. I always enjoy the community connection so I thought it would be a great opportunity for me to connect with more people, make their process easier and give them ideas of the new environment.

7. What is a day or week in the life of an international student like at IU Indy?

I usually have classes three to four days a week while also working part-time on campus. After class, I often stay at the library to study or work on assignments, and I also make time for student organization activities, campus events, or hanging out with friends.

8. What can prospective international students ask you about? 

You can ask me about IU Indy, the Luddy School, international student life, and what it is like adjusting to a new environment. We have the supportive Office of International Affairs to help international students as well as other resources. Also ask me about tips or advice for studying abroad and talking to new people. Other than that, feel free to ask me about places to hang out and activity on campus and the city. 

9. What was your experience with financial aid at IU Indy?

Merit-based scholarships were a major factor in making IU Indy financially possible for me. After admission, students can also access a scholarship portal to explore more scholarship opportunities.