Real Student Stories
Study in the USA visited Green River College and interviewed seven of our international
students.
Every year, students from all over the world choose Green River College in Washington State to start their journey in the U.S. drawn by its supportive environment, diverse community, and strong academic pathways.
But what does it actually feel like to study here as an international student?
For students like Julian, Siyabonga, Gen, Kanata, Keto, Sandra, and Katie…
the answer is simple:
It’s more than a college, it’s a community and a second home.
Real Students. Real Journeys.
From Ecuador to South Africa, Japan to Sweden, and Vietnam—students are pursuing degrees in Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Software Development, Math, and Engineering.
And while their paths are different, their experiences share something powerful 👇
A CAMPUS THAT FEELS LIKE HOME
One of the first things students notice is the people.
💬 Julian (Ecuador, Aerospace Engineering): YouTube
“Green River is one of the best colleges in the United States… it truly feels like my second home.”
💬 Gen (Japan, Computer Science): YouTube
“Green River College is the best opportunity to fulfill my dreams."
💬 Siyabonga (South Africa, Computer Science & Track Athlete): YouTube
“It’s a really great place to be… I feel very taken care of.”
Across every story, students describe a campus that is welcoming, diverse, and supportive—where they truly belong.
SUPPORT THAT ACTUALLY HELPS YOU SUCCEED
Support at Green River College goes beyond the classroom.
💬 Gen:
“My advisor is the best support to help make my dream plan come true.”
💬 Sandra (Sweden, Software Development): YouTube
“My professors are very passionate… they make me feel secure and inspire me to learn more.”
💬 Katie (Vietnam, Math & Student Ambassador): YouTube
“Professors are quick to reply, and everyone is very friendly and helpful.”
From professors to advisors, students feel guided every step of the way.
OPPORTUNITIES THAT GO BEYOND ACADEMICS
Students are gaining real experience while doing what they love.
💬 Sandra:
“I get to film campus events as a videographer.”;
💬 Siyabonga:
“I’m a 100m and 200m athlete… and maybe the 400m this season.”
💬 Julian:
“I perform at the Student Union and I’m part of the music and soccer clubs.”
💬 Katie:
“I help plan events and support students as a student ambassador.”
These opportunities help students build confidence, skills, and community.
WHY WASHINGTON + GREEN RIVER?
Students choose Green River for both opportunity and environment.
💬 Kanata (Japan, Computer & Electrical Engineering): YouTube
“Washington has great opportunities with companies like Google and Microsoft, and GRC’s diversity inspired me.”
💬 Keto (Japan, Computer Engineering): YouTube
“There are transfer fairs, campus jobs, and so much support for international students.”
💬 Gen:
“Washington is safe, and the nature is beautiful.”
It’s a place where students can focus, grow, and explore their future.
A CAMPUS LIFE YOU'LL NEVER FORGET
💬 Julian:
“My favorite event is the Halloween celebration.”
💬 Sandra:
“Halloween is my favorite—it’s so fun and brings everyone together.”
💬 Katie:
“I hosted a Lunar New Year event with over 560 students attending.”
💬 Kanata:
“I organize events and trips to help new students connect.”
From cultural celebrations to outdoor adventures, there’s always something happening.
A PLACE WHERE YOU CAN GROW
Every student shares the same feeling:
💬 Gen:
“I don’t feel homesick—I feel supported.”
💬 Sandra:
“One word to describe GRC: Supportive.”
💬 Kanata & Keto:
“We recommend Green River College.”
💬 Katie:
“Come to GRC—it’s very friendly and welcoming.”