“I could not pass up the opportunity to stay” - International Exchange STUdent Nicolas Atkins Chooses STU

Nicolas Atkins was not expecting his academic trajectory and life path to change when he came to STU on exchange from Peru, but that’s exactly what happened. 

 

After spending a semester on campus, he made the decision to stay at St. Thomas with plans to study International Relations and Romance Languages. 

 

“This was a tough decision I had to mull over because I was leaving my life and my country behind, but my experiences at STU solidified my decisions to transfer here,” he said. 

 

While studying Law at the Universidad De Piura in Peru, Atkins wanted to experience a different part of the world and enrolled in a semester-long International Exchange program. He felt drawn to STU because of the small class sizes and the wide range of courses that sparked his interest. 

 

Atkins said he enjoyed the engagement and discussions between professors and STUdents in class. 

 

This was one of the many ways he felt welcomed by the tight-knit and diverse community. 

 

“I’ve met so many interesting people that have changed how I see the world,” he said.  

 

Through the exploration of different courses and support from professors— both inside and outside the classroom—Atkins has elevated his critical thinking skills and formed connections within the community. 

 

He summed up his experience at STU in one word — “enriching”—and started the transfer process halfway through the fall semester.  

 

“STU was a perfect match, and I could not pass up the opportunity to stay," he said.  

 

By being exposed to STU’s rich multicultural environment and well-rounded curriculum, Atkins is excited to be a full-time STUdent.  

 

“I would recommend STU to anyone, even if it’s just for an exchange,” he said.