Business Management student Paola Eke came all the way to Gateway Technical College from Congo, but thankfully she knew at least one familiar face upon her arrival.
"I'm from central Africa – Congo," says Paola. "My sister came to Gateway before me, and then I followed her here because she loves Gateway. And, here in Kenosha, it's safer than other areas in the United States. There are also less distractions here for students who want to get more out of their college experience."
Just as her older sister loves Gateway, Paola sees the value in coming here to get her college education too.
"Gateway is so economical compared to other stateside universities and colleges. And the campus life is great too, especially since there are so many opportunities to work on campus. I look forward to the rest of my stay here!"
Beyond finding a solid educational foundation, the campus culture helped Paola build a base of good friends and colleagues too.
"I didn't know Gateway was going to be as great as it is. People are so friendly here, and I love it," says Paola.
"I enjoy the clubs on campus. I'm in International Club, Student Life, United Student Government, Outdoor Adventure Klub, Sci Fi Club and Latinos Unidos. Through the International Club, I've done a lot of things. I've been to Chicago, I've gone to Irish Fest and German Fest. And those trips have been so great. On one trip, we had so much fun dancing together, and we learned a cultural dance there too. It was awesome."
Paola keeps a busy schedule between classes and club events, plus she benefits from work opportunities on campus. It allows her to earn money in college, while also gaining valuable work experience.
"Here on campus, I'm a part-time worker in Student Services. Being able to do that, I've learned a lot of things. Back home, I'm not into computers, but I’ve had to learn so many of those things here. And I love it!”
When Paola finishes her degree program, she looks forward to using all her newfound skills and interests back home.
"My parents have a family business, and I'm hoping to help with that business when I graduate. I'm trying to learn how Americans run their businesses while I'm here, and I want to bring those practices back home to help my family's business in the future. And one day, I'd love to open my own business too."