Sangeeta grew up in a poor area of New Delhi, India, where she was one of more than 50,000 people living in a 22-acre area.

She learned the value of hard work from her father, who owns a small business, and Sangeeta is determined to make a difference in the world. She applied herself to learning English and after becoming fluent, became an English language coordinator at a nonprofit organization in her community. To date, Sangeeta has taught more than 300 students to speak English.

This year, Sangeeta left India to study in the United States. Through the Community College Initiative (CCI) Program, she is enrolled at Fox Valley Technical College, studying Business Management.

“I have always wanted to create more impact in my community; that is why I applied for the CCI program to come to Fox Valley Technical College,” she says.

Sangeeta is one of 105 international students on campus this year, representing 38 countries, learning new skills but also discovering life in Wisconsin and the United States. They are studying in a variety of program areas like business, manufacturing, culinary arts, information technology, early childhood education, nursing and more.

The students are also involved in community activities. Each Saturday this fall, they volunteer at Appleton’s Marigold Mile, maintaining the flower beds. After that, they will continue to get to know the Fox Cities community through internships and volunteer opportunities, and trips are planned to other areas of the state.

“FVTC has worked with thousands of international students for more than 30 years and has built a strong reputation as a leader in international student programming,” says International Student Programs Manager Allisen Stojanovic. “International students come to FVTC because of its outstanding reputation for academics and job placement. They want a hands-on education while learning about the American way of life.”

Local students also benefit from the richness and diversity the international students bring to the college experience. “International students provide a wonderful opportunity for local students to learn about other cultures, ways of life and perspectives, which they may not otherwise encounter,” Allisen says.  

“My father always taught me that hard work pays off,” says Sangeeta. “The day I learned I was accepted to this program and to attend FVTC was one of the best days of my life. When a student is in the right place, and has a good mentor in their life, they can succeed. I have this at Fox Valley Technical College.”

Learn more about international education at Fox Valley Technical College >