Studying abroad comes with a lot of firsts: your first time in a new country, your first new friends, your first taste of independence. So, if you find yourself lying awake at night wondering what to expect, you’re not alone. Feeling unsure is part of the process. What matters is having the right people by your side. You’ll find them and so much more at Wright State University.
Located just eight miles from downtown Dayton, Ohio, it offers more than 340 academic programmes across six colleges and a medical school. Whether you’re aiming for a career in engineering, health, business, the arts, or beyond, this is where opportunity meets support.
Dayton itself is full of energy and possibilities. Named one of the most affordable cities in the US, it blends culture, nature, and low living costs. Here, you’ll find museums, music, food, and festivals — all while enjoying a lifestyle that won’t break the bank.
And you won’t be doing any of this alone. From day one, international peer mentors –students who’ve been in your shoes–– are ready to help you settle in. Before you even land, you’ll have access to various online resources to help you prepare. And once you’re here, you’ll find countless ways to connect: student organisations, cultural celebrations, and campus events that make every day more vibrant
Curious what the experience is really like? Hear from four students from Vietnam who’ve made Wright State their home:
The Wright State International Festival celebrates students from all cultures with cultural performances, international food, and so much more. Source: Wright State University
Tam Tran
Tam Tran’s journey to Wright State began with a solo drive into Dayton during winter. “I remember feeling nervous and a bit isolated,” she says. “But deep down, I knew I was starting something new.”
She arrived just in time for international orientation, where she was welcomed by Wright State staff. “They were unbelievably nice — always smiling, answering every question, and guiding us with full energy.” The orientation sessions were incredibly helpful for her. “The slides were easy to follow, and the speakers spoke slowly to ensure we could understand everything.”
Even getting lost turned into one of Tran’s memorable firsts. “Wright State has these underground tunnels that connect many of the buildings,” she explains. “I remember getting lost in them once. A staff member noticed and instead of just giving me directions, they walked me all the way to my building.”
Drawing on her experience, Tran has one message for future students: “Say yes to orientation, go to events, talk to people. Just take that first step — everything will slowly start to feel familiar. And at the end of the day, all those nerves and moments of anxiety will be worth it.”
Pham Minh Thu Nguyen
When Pham Minh Thu Nguyen first arrived in the US, everything felt new to her. “It was a little overwhelming,” she admits. “But when I arrived on campus, there were students from the Vietnamese Student Association waiting to help me move into my dorm. That small act of kindness me feel safe and supported right away.”
She was anxious to meet her roommate too; it was her first time sharing a space with a stranger. “Luckily, she was very friendly, considerate, and kind,” she remembers. “She’s also from Vietnam. I still remember how we stayed up talking until 4 a.m. about everything in our lives. That made me feel a lot more at home.”
Nguyen also found comfort in the little things — like discovering her favourite drink at the campus café. “I tried the matcha latte, and it tasted so good!” she says.
Looking back, Nguyen encourages other international students not to worry too much. “Wright State has so many friendly people and helpful resources, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything,” she shares. “Most importantly, give yourself time to adjust. You don’t have to figure everything out right away.”
Wright State offers resources, cultural centers, and diversity programmes to create an inclusive campus for everyone. Source: Wright State University
Nam Pham
Nam Pham was surprised by the welcome he received when he arrived at Wright State. “A cheerful lady from the University Center for International Education (UCIE) came out to help me carry my luggage and find my room,” he recalls. “I felt so happy and welcomed. She didn’t have to stay late just to make sure I could get my room key, but she did.”
The surprises didn’t stop there. He was amazed by how many students from different countries were gathered at the international student orientation. “At first, I felt lost in the crowd,” he says, “but other students stepped in to help and even introduced me to fellow Vietnamese students.
His first campus tour added another unexpected moment; he tried ice skating for the very first time. “The UCIE staff were so helpful. They always made sure we had a comfortable experience,” he shares.
Thinking back on those first days, Pham shares, “I believe that every new student coming here should be prepared for a lot of surprises and excitement.”
Nhat Minh P.
Like Pham, Nhat experienced a warm welcome at Wright State as well. “I was greeted warmly and was assisted with the check-in process and dormitory arrangements,” he shares. “The genuine hospitality and clear communication from the school helped me feel supported and more at ease after arriving.”
He admits feeling anxious about meeting his roommate, but those worries faded quickly. “I found him very approachable and nice,” Nhat says. “We shared stories and set mutual expectations for living together. That laid the foundation for a respectful and friendly living environment, which made adjusting to college life much easier.”
Still, not everything went smoothly. “When I first moved in, I accidentally went to the ladies’ floor,” he explains. “It took me a few minutes to find my way back to the correct room.” It was awkward for Nhat then, but now it’s just a funny memory.
“My advice to incoming international students is to embrace the discomfort of the unknown,” he says. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions, engage in campus events, or simply introduce yourself to someone new. The university has numerous resources and people ready to help; all you need to do is reach out.”
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