King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals

I really enjoyed my time at KFUPM. The campus is vibrant and inviting, with small class sizes (no auditorium lectures after freshman year) and approachable, knowledgeable professors. They offer opportunities to grow outside of classrooms through research or by mentoring you through your own projects.

While it can be a bit challenging to be in a community where English is not the main language, students speak English very well and will mostly speak English in your presence to keep you engaged in conversation. Though it might be hard at the beginning to make friends, once you get to know 3-4 people, they will connect you with others, helping you build your own group. Students are genuinely welcoming and eager to learn about different cultures and backgrounds. I recommend joining several clubs early on to meet new people and find your group.

One thing that stood out to me was how students would go out of their way to help newcomers find their way around campus once you ask and explain that you are new.

The exchange program staff are incredibly supportive, guiding you through every aspect of your KFUPM experience. I can't recall a time when they weren't there for me.

Additionally, KFUPM offers a stipend sufficient to cover your expenses, along with free housing, healthcare, and affordable, high-quality meals.

For Muslim students interested in deepening their understanding of their faith, KFUPM offers a supportive environment with opportunities for regular mosque prayers, Quran circles, Islamic lectures, and potentially seeking Islamic knowledge.

I've changed a lot since I started this program, especially in the way I approach exam preparation and work ethic. I've learned a number of learning strategies that have improved my comprehension and memorization of the subject matter. My entire school experience has been enhanced by my increased adaptability to various learning situations and cultural contexts. My perspective has become wider and my mind more receptive as a result of this exposure, which has improved my ability to interact with others and accept differing points of view. All in all, the program has given me useful abilities that I can use for my personal development in addition to my academic work.