Quotes

What does one gain from being an Ashby Hall resident and by taking part in the Madison International program? Why would one want to do so? The following quotes from previous Ashby Hall residents and Madison International program participants answer these questions, and highlight the many benefits of the Madison International program as well as the tight knit community and relationships that get formed.

What do you gain from living in Ashby Hall and from participating in the Madison International program?

“I have learned so many things this year because of living in Ashby Hall. Very few of the things I have learned could be tested or measured. I have learned acceptance, patience, and tolerance. The Madison International program allows you to interact with so many different kinds of people. No one person is like another and it is such a fantastic experience becoming a friend to each one of them. Not only did I acquire new friends, but also an understanding of different cultures and new perspectives.” Rachel Kuchta U.S. American Student

“This year, the Madison International community had a very diverse group, non-representative of the campus population because of this extensive diversity. I have observed and from first hand experience of coming to the US from another country, how difficult it can be in the beginning for international students to adjust to the new lifestyle, society and culture.” Al Sherkia Bangladeshy Student

“I think the Madison International Program offers a very unique setting and I’d really like to be involved with it. I’m looking forward to learning about different cultural differences, and commonalities, as well as the intangibles you can’t even consider about a culture until you experience it, hear about it firsthand.” Alexander Punkett U.S. American Student

“I am very interested in learning more about others' cultures and their beliefs. I think it is very important to be educated and culturally aware.” Caitlin Boyer U.S. American Student

“In a close-knit community like this one, where students govern themselves, perhaps the two most important values are accountability and reliability. The “citizens"’ must be trusted to follow regulations and to promote a cooperative, safe environment without constant supervision. Also, members of committees must be responsible enough to complete any delegated tasks.”  Tana Wright U.S. American Student

“The Madison International Program has given me the chance to meet people from all over the world and has given me an opportunity to interact with them on a daily basis. Since most Ashby residents know at least two different languages I have also had an opportunity to hold conversations in languages other than English.” Siana Pentcheva Bulgarian Student

“Growing up I have always been exposed to different cultures and accepted each joyfully and willingly. In addition, I have a multicultural background because I grew up speaking Farsi, Turkish and English. I feel that my acceptance into the Madison International community could enhance the experiences of other as well as myself.” Negar Ehsani Iranian Student

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Why do you want to live in Ashby Hall and participate in the Madison International program?

            “Thinking back on all of the awesome experiences I have had this year, I realize that they are irreplaceable memories that will truly last a lifetime. I would really like the experience to continue learning about different cultures first-hand. Ashby Hall is the perfect place to do this. I can’t wait to participate in all of the exciting events already planned for next year. I really want to meet all of the new Ashby residents next year. Ashby Hall is my family and I’m eager to extend that family to more and more people. I can’t wait to meet the new international students and help in planning even more educational experiences.” Rachel Kuchta U.S. American Student

            “Ashby Hall is the residence hall that I have wanted to live in since I was accepted to James Madison University. I think it is amazing to have a house dedicated to learning about other peoples’ cultures and to sharing your own culture. It is a way to learn about the world outside the United States that isn’t in a classroom.” Sarah Pineres Colombian Student

            “I personally had the honor to visit Ashby this past semester and witnessed the diversity and the friendliness of the students living there. The environment that surrounds Ashby brings comfort and excitement.” Brian Sato U.S. American Student

             “I would like to live in Ashby because I think it would be a great chance to broaden my horizons by meeting people of other cultures, religions, and perhaps even languages. In addition, because I myself may be considered “international”, I could possibly bring some diversity to the hall.” Claudia Gutierrez Peruvian Student

           “From Madison International I expect to learn more about the world around me and the issues we face as the human race. I want to learn how to make more of a difference in the world. I want to learn what truly drives people from all over the world. Overall, I want to learn how to make our world more peaceful by learning to interact with people from different cultures.” Jordan Smith U.S. American Student

            “I want to learn about other countries and cultures, and have had a thirst since I was young to do so. My mentor lived in Prague, and I myself took a week long tour to Britain and France two summers ago, and last summer attended a residential Governor’s School program where I met students from Persia, India, and China and had a Vietnamese roommate. I was fascinated by their traditions, food, and how they have integrated themselves into American culture while still keeping their roots strong.” Brandi Ferrebee U.S. American Student

            “The opportunity to participate in the Madison International program and live in Ashby Hall is truly unique. I hope to live in Ashby to increase my exposure to people of different cultures and experience the individual viewpoint they bring to discussion and everyday life. I feel as though constant exposure to those of different countries will increase my awareness of the world around me and promote the role of multiculturalism in the United States today.” Hannah Green U.S. American Student

            “Living in Ashby has been one of the most rewarding aspects of attending James Madison University. I feel that over the course of this year, I have learned so much about other cultures and had the chance to share my cultures with others. It is most exciting to be a part of a community that is so accepting of differences and values the content of what other have to offer.” Deborah Dawit Ethiopian Student

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