International students find home away from home at Penn State Scranton
For international students like Tansi and Binni Patel, Penn State Scranton has become more than just a college campus.
DUNMORE, Pa. — For international students like Tansi and Binni Patel, Penn State Scranton has become more than just a college campus. According to both students, it’s a place of “growth, connection and belonging” for them.
Tansi, a first-year student from Gujarat, India, came to the U.S. inspired by her brother’s journey and driven by a desire to explore the educational opportunities America offers. “Studying abroad has always been a goal of mine,” she said. “I chose this campus because of the wide range of opportunities it offers, especially in terms of advanced education and technology.”
Tansi said her decision to attend Penn State Scranton was intentional. “I had been told it was hard to get in, which made me even more motivated to apply,” she said. “This smaller campus environment has helped me build connections with more people in less time. It gives me opportunities to grow and learn while also offering the comfort of home.”
Binni Patel, also from Gujarat, India, shared similar sentiments. “I always had a dream of studying abroad to explore new opportunities and gain a global perspective, especially in the field of psychology,” she said. A recommendation from a friend who had studied at Penn State Scranton helped her make the decision.
"Penn State Scranton stood out for its welcoming community life." – Binni Patel
Both students found the campus community to be warm and inclusive. “The first time I saw the campus, I felt a bit lost,” Tansi recalled. “But I quickly began to feel a sense of belonging.”
“I never felt like I was from somewhere else. I felt connected and supported right from the beginning,” Binni said.
Thinking about studying in the U.S.? Hear from two amazing students from India who found their home at Penn State Scranton! They share what makes our campus welcoming and full of opportunities for international students.
Credit: Morgan Sewack
Small campus size played a key role in easing their transition and getting involved
“It made my transition much smoother and more comfortable,” Binni said. “I’ve been able to get to know my professors personally, and they know me too.”
Both students have become deeply involved in campus life.
Tansi serves as vice president of the Indian Student Association (ISA), works as an embedded math tutor, and is a New Student Orientation (NSO) leader. Binni, meanwhile, is the ISA president, a member of the Student Activities Funding Committee, a PSYCH 100 tutor, and also a student worker in the Student Services and Engagement office. “It’s been a fun and meaningful way to connect with others, build leadership skills, and really feel like part of the Penn State Scranton community,” Binni said.
Their experiences have been shaped by the support of faculty, staff, and peers.
"My professors and international advisors have always been supportive. My friend Binni has always been there for me." -- Tansi Patel
Binni shared similar gratitude about the faculty and staff she interacts with daily. “Sarah Smith (campus counselor/counseling services) has always been there to listen when I felt homesick. Nikki Paolicelli and Matt Nied (associate director and director of student services and engagement), and Jon Tobin (career services) have made me feel like this is my second home. And I’m incredibly grateful to my professors, especially Dr. (Nicole) Watkins (assistant professor of psychology) and Mr. (James) Hart (assistant teaching professor of communication arts and sciences) who helped me grow academically and personally.”
Both students encourage other international students to embrace the experience. “Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone,” Binni said. “Join events, ask questions, talk to people.” Tansi added, “You’re never alone; there are always people around who are willing to help – you just have to look around.”
Even early in their college careers, both students feel that Penn State Scranton is shaping their futures. “It has allowed me to discover my interests and given me access to opportunities that are helping me grow into the person I want to become,” said Tansi.
“All of these experiences are shaping me into the kind of person I want to be, both in my career and in life beyond college,” Binni said.
And for those moments of uncertainty, Tansi offered a final reminder: “It’s normal to feel unsure sometimes or even homesick, but remember you have your own way to adapt and adjust. Take your time!”
