Jul 15, 2025

Through the Eyes of An Exchange Student Abroad

When Noor Alsaigh, a Chemical Engineering student at KFUPM, decided to take part in the university’s Study Abroad Program, she knew it would be an adventure. What she didn’t expect was just how much it would influence her personal and academic journey.

Hosted by the University of Florida in Gainesville, Noor spent a full semester immersed in an entirely new environment, both culturally and academically. The shift was significant, but so were the rewards. “The academic environment was incredibly engaging, especially within chemical engineering, where I had the chance to learn from diverse faculty and collaborate with students from different backgrounds,” she said.

One of her most memorable moments was a university-arranged visit to the Kennedy Space Center. The trip brought together engineering students from several countries and allowed them to connect over shared interests in science and innovation. It was just one of many activities that made Noor’s time in Florida both enriching and memorable.

Inside the classroom, Noor found the coursework stimulating and the discussions lively. She appreciated how collaborative the atmosphere was. The exposure both expanded her technical knowledge and strengthened her communication and teamwork skills.

Of course, stepping into a different culture came with its challenges. Adjusting to unfamiliar customs, classroom expectations, and everyday routines took time. But Noor overcame these hurdles with curiosity and an open mind. She made an effort to explore the city, join university clubs, and connect with other international students. This helped her settle in quicker and build a strong support network.

“This journey gave me a boost of confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging in a global community,” she shared. “I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity and would encourage every student to take a leap and experience something like this; you come back with more than just memories, you come back transformed.”

The support Noor received from KFUPM made a big difference. The university stayed in contact, offered guidance, and ensured she had the tools to succeed abroad. That encouragement, paired with the structure of the program, allowed her to focus on learning, growing, and fully participating in campus life.

Looking ahead, Noor plans to build on this momentum. She is currently completing an international summer training program in Houston, Texas. Her experience in Florida encouraged her to seek out more opportunities beyond the classroom, be they academic, cultural, or professional. To students considering the study abroad program, Noor offers one simple advice: “Go for it!”