by Rafael Moraes Gaino
What is it like to be an international student at Defiance College?
First, I’d like to introduce myself: my name is Rafael Gaino. I’m-20-years old, a sophomore, and I’m from Brazil—specifically, a city of 140,000 people called Araras. I’m a goalkeeper and play soccer for the college’s men’s team.
Since arriving at the college, I’ve felt welcomed by the student body as well as the staff—whether in the cafeteria or in the campus offices. I feel welcomed by everyone who works here, and, of course, by my teammates and the coaching staff.
My choice to pursue my dream far from my country and family was a very difficult and delicate decision, but I decided to do it for my future. Attending Defiance College has been one of the best decisions of my life; I have the support of my family—whom I miss dearly—and they know I am working hard to build a better future for both myself and them.
The campus is small but cozy; beyond the abundant greenery, the connection the campus has with nature is something I view very positively, given that there are many green areas in my home country.
Being an international student also allows me to explore a new culture, different class schedules, different practice time, different language and also different challenges. The biggest challenge I faced at first was understanding the college grading system; I struggled quite a bit during my first semester here, but things gradually fell into place. In conclusion, I would like to say that dreams are meant to be realized, so always strive your hardest to make them come true.