First-year Grad Student Profiles

Starting graduate school is a monumental step in anyone’s academic journey. For Tatiana Osorio Montoya, an international student from Colombia; Muhammad Ikbal Putera, hailing from Indonesia; and Joseph Flesch, a North Carolina native, their first semester at NC State has been a time of growth, adaptation, and discovery. Each student brings a unique perspective, from navigating cultural transitions to embracing new academic challenges.

Their stories offer a glimpse into the vibrant, diverse community at NC State and the resources that help first-year graduate students thrive. Read on to learn how Tatiana, Muhammad, and Joseph have made the most of their first semester.

Tatiana Osorio Montoya

• Program: Ph.D. in Horticultural Science
• College: College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
• Where are you from?: Colombia

How has your semester been thus far and is graduate school what you expected?
This semester has been both exciting and challenging. As an international student, I’m adjusting to many new experiences, including the weather and cultural differences. However, I feel incredibly happy. The university is very supportive, and the resources available to students are outstanding. The campus is beautiful, and the academic support in my courses has been excellent. I’m also very pleased with my advisor, who is both patient and supportive. 

I’ve been learning not just academically but also professionally—developing skills like time management, discipline, and creating effective routines. My communication skills, especially in English, have improved significantly. 

Overall, graduate school has been everything I hoped for. It’s an intellectually stimulating environment where I can pursue my passion for research while developing the skills necessary for future success. The experience has exceeded my expectations, especially in terms of resources, support, and the opportunities available here at NC State. 

I’m truly happy to be at this university and feel like I’ve found a place for myself in this vast country.

Muhammad Ikbal Putera

• Program: Ph.D. in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management
• College: College of Natural Resources
• Where are you from?: Indonesia

How has your semester been thus far and is graduate school what you expected?
My semester is going well! There were many ups and downs, but that’s completely normal for most students. Graduate school is something I’ve been looking forward to for years. I understand the journey won’t always be smooth, but I see it as a ‘short vacation’ from my work in Indonesia. NC State provides excellent facilities and services for students facing challenges in their programs. These resources have been incredibly helpful in navigating the tougher moments and getting me back to my best self.

Joseph Flesch

• Program: Ph.D. in Psychology
• College: College of Humanities and Social Sciences
• Where are you from?: North Carolina

How has your semester been thus far and is graduate school what you expected?
This semester, academically, has been challenging but very rewarding. I knew graduate school would be more challenging, but my professors, classmates, and my mentor have made this transition a lot more enjoyable and exciting. So far, we have learned the importance of intelligence and academic testing for special education services, how to administer these tests with lots of practice volunteers, and even enjoyed learning and understanding more about statistics (crazy, right?).