Kledis Zaimi, a Computer Science and Information Systems student at AUBG, wanted to experience what it’s like to be a college student in the U.S. Thanks to AUBG’s partnership with the University of Maine (UMaine), he had the opportunity to participate in an exchange program in the state.
Together with two of his friends from AUBG, Kledis embarked on his study abroad adventure.
Quality education at UMaine
At UMaine, Kledis took high-level courses that not only deepened his theoretical knowledge but also provided hands-on experience through engaging projects.
“The professors’ research experience and involvement made learning more exciting for most students,” he shared.
University of Maine is the state’s largest public research university, renowned for its high-quality education. In fact, AUBG’s curriculum is largely modelled after UMaine’s, meaning both institutions offer comparable academic experience.
Kledis also connected with AUBG alumni currently pursuing postgraduate and PhD degrees at UMaine. “They were very satisfied with their education and highly recommended it,” he said.
If you’re also considering continuing your studies at UMaine, AUBG alumna Orlina Boteva (‘01) shares her expert tips on applying for a graduate degree in the U.S.
Diversity and a welcoming atmosphere
The large campus and local environment at UMaine contributed to Kledis’ unique experience.
He was impressed by the diversity of international students. “The university is somewhat isolated in terms of location, but it has a lively international community with students from many different countries,” shared Kledis.
This and UMaine’s welcoming atmosphere made integration easy. “The International Students Office organized gatherings every Friday. Sometimes we played board games, and other times we cooked international dishes together.”
He also got the chance to enjoy campus life:
“The campus was huge, there were many places to explore, including academic buildings. It was definitely a great experience.”
He made many friends, and the Resident Advisors’s efforts to pair international with American students in dormitories further facilitated integration and provided an authentic Americal college experience.
Exploring Maine and its surroundings
Beyond academics, Kledis and his freidns took full advantage of UMaine’s location to explore Maine and nearby spots. “This was a big factor in choosing UMaine for my exchange. There were many great places to visit nearby,” he said.
He traveled to Portland and Boston, and the International Students Office organized trips to Bar Harbor, home to the stunning Acadia National Park.
For students considering an exchange program at UMaine, Kledis advises to “make the first step in creating friendships. Americans can be a bit reserved at first, but onec you make an effort, they are very welcoming.”
Another key tip? “Pack your thickest coats because it definitely gets very cold,” he warned. “But even in winter, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, including a large skating arena,” Kledis reassured.
Reflecting on his time at UMaine, Kledis shared:
“It opened my eyes to an entirely different experience, a new system, new people, and definitely made me appreciate AUBG even more, along with the incredible exchange opportunities we have.”
To learn more about how to enroll in an exchange program at UMaine, check out this page or contact the Erasmus and Study Abroad Programs Office.
