In this episode, Saafiyah sits down with Joel Etchri, a mechanical engineering student from Macau, as he reflects on his college journey in Los Angeles. Joel opens up about the challenges and rewards of studying far from home, navigating a new culture, and adjusting to life in the U.S. He also offers advice to fellow international students on how to thrive in a foreign environment.
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Visit Viterbi for Summer 2026
There's no better way to learn more about our engineering, computer science, and artificial intelligence undergraduate programs than to visit with us. Weekday events, a big Open House on June 27, and virtual events all summer long. Go to https://viterbiadmission.usc.edu/events to book a spot!
