World@VCU is a VCU News feature, in partnership with the Global Education Office, that highlights students from around the world who enrich the VCU community. Ximena Motta Hernandez recently completed the GEO’s English Language Program and is now enrolled as a master’s student in public administration in the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs.
What should we know about your home country?
I will emphasize that resilience is the attitude of the hardworking Colombian people, so despite all the social and economic realities, life is reflected in happy, hopeful faces and tropical music. At the top of South America, Colombia is framed by green chain mountains and valleys, the Caribbean and Pacific oceans, and the Amazon jungle – and near the equator, we don’t have traditional seasons but plenty of different weather throughout the year. Colombia is home to the best coffee in the world and a diversity of flowers, butterflies and birds. Music and its varied rhythms flow in the blood of our people. We are a country with open arms to the rest of the world – and the “danger” is the desire to stay once you are there.
What inspired you to study at VCU?
I wanted to experience an American public university, while being in a certificate and highly ranked English language program. And it has been nice being in the heart of Richmond.
Tell us about a favorite memory or experience so far here in America.
It would be when I was arriving by plane and looking through the window – and seeing miles and miles of treetops. I finally understand why Virginia is for Lovers!
Has there been a surprise during your time studying abroad?
At VCU, I was surprised by all the activities – academic and recreational – every day, as well as the constant support for students as seen in many of the centers, organizations and offices that always offer a friendly welcome. RVA also surprised me with the ecological landscape that allows you to breathe and live in a peaceful and not-big city. And its location is perfect, because in one or two hours, you can be on the beach or in a big city like Washington, and still surrounded by national and state parks.
Share something about a significant achievement or project.
In my country, I had the opportunity to lead a project with high impact: bringing internet connections to small and remote towns. This was a legal, political, economic and especially technical challenge, given the rugged geography of Colombia. But we are proud that more of the population can study and work online, and access more information and entertainment, which improves the quality of life.
Describe your experience in the English Language Program.
I probably was one of the oldest students in the ELP – my daughter is the age of most of my classmates. So I was thinking about how I – as a mother, a professional with 25 years of experience and someone who has walked a long way in life – would connect with other students at an “undergrad age.” But ELP is like an intercultural family in an academic context, and it’s really easy to connect and adapt. And at all times, there is support from teachers and tutors.
Give us a glimpse into your future.
Starting in January, I began pursuing a master’s in public administration in the Wilder School. I look forward to finding an internship that will allow me to continue developing as a professional. And of course, I want to keep exploring the city and the state, surrounded by mountains, lakes, rivers and the ocean.
Any advice for international students just starting their journeys?
My advice would be focused on both academic and personal growth. The ELP is demanding and provides useful and practical tools, and practicing language in the natural environment is the best way to improve. But even if the academic charge is daily work, there is always an opportunity to share your days with international students, which gives you a view to see other cultures – and also value your own.
‘I wanted to experience an American public university … and it has been nice being in the heart of Richmond.’
– Ximena Motta Hernandez
This story appeared on VCU News.
