Passport to success: how one student’s podcast is guiding future global scholars
By Faduma Ali
Studying abroad can be both exciting and overwhelming, filled with new experiences and unexpected challenges. Thu Nguyen, a student at St. Catherine University, recognized the need for guidance and connection for students navigating this transition. That’s how Passport to Success was born, a podcast designed to share stories and advice from international students at St. Kate’s.
“I know St. Kate’s has a big study abroad program, so I was thinking, why not start a podcast featuring background, stories, and tips for success from current international students?” Nguyen explained. “That way, students looking forward to studying abroad could get an idea of what living and studying abroad actually looks like.”
Created as a leadership project for her Leadership and Influence course, Passport to Success quickly became more than just an assignment. The podcast delivers a relatable and engaging space where international students can share their journeys, challenges, and achievements. Unlike a traditional, structured podcast, Passport to Success embraces a casual and fun atmosphere, complete with giggles and laughter.
To bring the project to life, Nguyen reached out to the Center for Intercultural Development (CID) and connected with five international students willing to share their experiences. The podcast currently has five episodes, each running over 30 minutes. Though the course has ended, Nguyen is open to continuing the podcast if time allows and if more students are interested in participating.
“Even though I finished that course, I might create more episodes in the future,” she said.
For students thinking about studying abroad, Passport to Success acts as both a guide and a source of comfort. It provides an authentic glimpse into what it’s like to leave home and adjust to a new country. Through storytelling and honest conversations, Nguyen hopes to offer encouragement and useful insights to those starting on similar journeys.
Whether you’re preparing to study abroad or simply curious about the experiences of international students, this podcast is a must-listen. Through open and meaningful conversations, Nguyen is ensuring that no student navigates their journey alone.
Listeners can tune into Passport to Success on Spotify here: https://open.spotify.com/show/60dnw5czAg2LMX7k6ZeaLb
