Three Stages, One Journey: Life as an International Student at Morningside
By Diego Ocando – Being an international student is about a lot more than just studying in another country. It’s about learning how to adapt, balance, and grow — all while being far from home.
At Morningside, students from around the world bring their own stories, cultures, and dreams to campus. But what they all share is the challenge of figuring out how to manage it all — classes, sports, jobs, friendships, and those rare moments of free time.
In a recent video project, three international students opened up about what life really looks like behind the scenes.
Marco, a sophomore from Spain, says his days are still pretty relaxed — filled with playing soccer, hanging out with friends, and enjoying campus life. “I don’t have too many responsibilities yet,” he said. “I feel like I have time to enjoy college life.”
At this stage, everything still feels new; there is a mix of excitement, discovery, and freedom. It’s about getting used to a new country while finding a sense of belonging on campus.
By junior year, the rhythm starts to change. Classes get tougher, jobs become part of the routine, and the future starts to feel a little closer.
“Now I see leisure more as recovery,” said Guillermo, a junior from Ecuador. “I use it to rest and recharge. With more work and classes, I don’t have the same freedom I had before, but I still try to make time for myself.”
For many international students, this is when balance becomes key. Leisure isn’t just about having fun anymore: it’s about staying grounded and taking care of your mind and body while juggling growing responsibilities.
By senior year, the focus shifts again. Elias, a senior and former soccer player, shared how his priorities have evolved.
“Honestly, I barely have time for myself,” he said. “Between school, work, and applying for jobs, it’s hard to find free time. When I do, I like to go to the gym, but most of the time I’m focused on what’s next.”
For students like Elias, life becomes about preparation: OPT—The year international students have in the US to work—, job searches, and figuring out what comes after college. The sense of freedom from the early years gives way to responsibility and reflection.
Each of these stages shows a different side of what it means to be an international student. For many, that’s what the journey is all about — learning how to balance everything while still finding small moments that feel like home. Whether it’s laughing with friends in the caf, kicking a ball around after class, or calling family back home, those little things matter more than most people realize.
Watch the full video project on Morningside’s international students’ experiences here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vdYS3MLseUs
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