USTL provides full scholarships to outstanding students from Timor-Leste for two to four years of study at high-quality undergraduate degree institutions in the United States. Scholarship awards include full tuition toward either a bachelor’s degree or associate degree, travel, living stipends, medical insurance in the U.S., and visa costs. USTL is a program of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), U.S. Department of State.

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It seems like time has been flying since I first got here at St. Michael's college. My freshman year is done and I am going to be a sophomore soon. Campus is so beautiful in summer and I am loving spending the time I get to spend in Vermont (The Green Mountain State). I spent my summer taking summer classes and now I get to enjoy a rest because classes are finished. I have a small saving because I am planning to go for horse riding and maybe visit Boston with mega bus, if you book your ticket early enough you can get tickets for only five dollars to nearby states. I can definitely suggest to learn to manage your time wisely if you want to be a successful student. It definitely helps to seperate time solely for studying and other time that can be for fun. I also suggest to make a lot of friends because connections can make life a lot easier if you need help with homework or finding something to do. When making friends, Try not to be shy because American students are really friendly but at the same time they may also be shy like you. I try to go out once in a while to eat in a local restaurant and visit the Winooski or Burlington farmers markets, I guarantee you will find something that you will enjoy. Take advantage of public transportation and if you need to buy something big, then try to wait until sales like the Senior Yard Sale (the sale where graduating students sell things they don't need anymore) . You will almost definitely get cold, but don't buy new winter clothes because it will be expensive. See if there are any second hand shops (like Goodwill) that you can get things for low prices but good quality. I gained 6 Kg (11lbs) since I arrived here, so if you don't want to gain weight try to balance your food and diet. If you eat Bacon and eggs for breakfast, Burger for lunch, then try to eat only vegetables, soup or salad for dinner. Eat a lot of fruit throughout the day and try to avoid sugary drinks like soft drinks or some juices because water, natural tea or milk may be a healthy alternatives. Every state has its own beautiful views so try to travel once in a while so that you may experience each unique offering of each varying state. If you feel lonely or depressed (hopefully not) try to go to church if you are religious or would like to grow in your religious connection with God, the priests are friendly and very helpful. I have a lot of friends here so if you are on holiday and want to visit me, then always feel free to come to Vermont and I will be happy to show you around.

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