My dream of studying at an American university began in ninth grade.
From that moment on, it was my daily motivation, to do my best every day to make it come true. Many people may wonder how I ended up in Fresno from Bad Oeynhausen (my hometown) and why I chose this university.
The Decisive Moment
The decisive moment came in 2023 when I participated in a showcase attended by many American coaches. There I met Coach Sam. After just a few conversations, I had a gut feeling that FPU was the place for me.
To confirm this gut feeling, I traveled to the campus with my parents in the fall of 2024. This visit confirmed my decision; not only did the tennis courts convince me, but also the entire atmosphere of the university. I was particularly impressed by the family-like environment, the warm openness and the strong sense of community.
Living My Dream Abroad
In addition, I had always been attracted to the idea of spending time abroad: experiencing a new culture, meeting people from all over the world and improving my language skills—all of that was part of my dream.
The fact that I can also pursue my passion for tennis in Fresno while deepening my interest in psychology as a field of study makes the whole package perfect.
A Close-Knit Community
Compared to other universities, Fresno Pacific University has fewer students—but that's exactly what I liked. You don't feel like an anonymous number, but rather a valuable part of a community. The fact that it is a Christian university also encouraged me. Having grown up in a Christian family, singing in the church choir as a child and later playing piano in the congregation, I felt connected here from the very beginning.
Feeling at Home
From the moment I was picked up at the airport, I felt welcome. Everyone treated me with openness and warmth, and I was immediately accepted into the community. This special atmosphere is something I really appreciate about the university. And in just my first three weeks, I've already met so many wonderful new people and had many unforgettable experiences, which makes me even more excited to spend the next few years at FPU–surrounded by people who inspire me and in a university that promotes my development both academically and personally.
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