The scholarship opportunities at Campbellsville University are a big reason why Gabriel Gordillo of Bolivia decided to come to the United States.
“When I found out about the scholarship offer from Campbellsville, I was very enthusiastic because I can come to the U.S. and achieve my dream to be a student-athlete,” he said. “The advantage with Campbellsville, in my case, is the league they play in. I had some good offers, but I chose CU for the good level in sports and to participate in the NAIA.”
According to Stephen Chaffin, assistant director of international enrollment, 30 percent of students at CU are international students. One reason for that being the cost.
“Here at CU, we offer big opportunities,” he said. “I think we have a really high value for the costs that we’re offering at $16,500 per year. It’s hard to find a four-year undergraduate degree for less than that.”
CU also offers international students an opportunity to come to the U.S., learn English and earn more than just a bachelor’s degree, Chaffin said.
“I think it’s attractive for students that they can come learn English here, earn an undergraduate degree and even go on to earn a master’s after that, all on the same campus, so they can be really familiar with their staff,” he said.
According to Chaffin, CU also offers a welcoming community to live in and learn.
“I think maybe our southern hospitality is an attractive thing for students,” he said. “I think when people hear of Campbellsville University, they think of a warm, friendly environment.”
CU also has more than 95 academic programs, which makes it more attractive for international students, Chaffin said.
Several soccer players said they learned about CU at a special showcase for student-athletes.
“I selected CU because they sent me the best scholarship offer, and I’m very happy with my decision,” said Álvaro Agullo, a freshman from Spain. “I like the classes.”
Jorge Lascano, a freshman from Colombia, said it has always been his dream to come to the U.S. and be a student-athlete.
“I’m enjoying the process,” he said. “In Colombia, we don’t have the facilities that we have here, and this is so awesome.”
However, not everything is perfect at CU. Students suggested the university consider improving the dining options available, as well as student housing.
“It’s not easy sharing a bathroom with 10 strangers,” Lascano said. Gabriel Gordillo, a freshman from Bolivia, said when he first arrived at CU, it was quite the adjustment.
“Some things of the university didn’t quite fit for me,” he said. “Obviously, the culture change, the language change, and living far from my friends and family is hard. But, when you get to know new people, and make friends, you start to enjoy Campbellsville and feel the university as home.”
