Study Arizona students embrace Tucson life and learning

This summer, students from the University of Arizona microcampuses La Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas (UPC) in Peru, Sampoerna University (SU) in Jakarta, Indonesia, and American University of Phnom Penh (AUPP) in Cambodia took part in the Study Arizona program, spending a semester in Tucson to immerse themselves in campus life while continuing their academic studies. The program offered much more than coursework; it gave students a chance to explore new cultures, gain independence, and make lasting friendships.

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For many participants, arriving in Tucson meant stepping into a completely different climate, culture, and way of life. “The weather is very different—hot and dry compared to my country—and I wanted to experience it for myself,” said SU student Balqis Putri. “I also chose Study Arizona because the applied computing major here is highly ranked.” She embraced the city’s distinctive desert landscape, calling Biosphere 2 “one of the most amazing places I’ve ever visited.”

Adriana del Carmen Toulier Salcedo, a business major from UPC Lima, said the environment challenged her in the best way: “I thought it was a great opportunity to be open to new experiences, to international views, and to grow myself and be more independent.” The Sonoran Desert quickly became one of her favorite destinations for its iconic cactus and sunsets.

Several students took courses outside their primary field of study, broadening their perspectives. Geneno “Nano” Gelado from SU, enrolled in African American studies and basic economic Issues. “It was such an opportunity—you can explore beyond your field,” he said. Similarly, Vivi Vivi, also from SU, found that Basic Economic Issues complemented her applied computing major by combining business and technology concepts. For many, the difference in teaching styles was a highlight. “The methodology here is so different from my home university, and I really liked that,” said Salvador Yrribarren Hercilla from UPC.

Living in the dorms gave students daily opportunities to connect with peers from around the world. “I met friends from Cambodia and Indonesia,” said María Alejandra Mendoza Váscones from UPC. “Networking like this will help me in my professional career.” She also shared that one memorable evening, the Study Arizona students all enjoyed a homemade meal from their home countries.

Richard Mauricio Acuña Barra from UPC found the community atmosphere especially welcoming. “It was easy to make friends here because people are so friendly and open-minded,” he said.

For many, this was the first time living away from family. From grocery shopping and cooking to navigating public transport, the experience fostered independence. “I had to take care of myself—getting food, managing my schedule, meeting new people,” said Paulo Ioannis Mendoza González from UPC.

Sofia Valeria Aranda Galvez, also from UPC Lima, described the semester as “transformative,” and Mendoza Váscones described her time on campus as ‘heart-warming.” Both credited the program with helping them grow more self-reliant while still enjoying the beauty of Tucson and the university campus.

When asked if they would recommend Study Arizona, the answer was a unanimous yes. Students cited the mix of academics, cultural exchange, and personal development as invaluable. “It’s an opportunity you can’t let pass,” said Mendoza Váscones. “You’ll learn not just from your courses, but from the people you meet.”