International Owls take flight at Temple

When Antonio Matias Buenga arrived in the U.S., he didn’t know any English, but he immediately recognized the kindness of others here. 

He planned to study at Rowan University, but educators there redirected him to Temple because of its Center for American Language and Culture (TCALC). This center offers English language programs for non-native speakers at all levels for study, employment and everyday life in addition to conditional admission for those who would like to attend the university. TCALC also helped Buenga find affordable housing in West Philadelphia. 

Despite initially struggling to learn the language, Buenga persevered and completed TCALC’s Intensive English Language Program with unwavering support from faculty and staff.  

When it came time to apply for an undergraduate program, he encountered financial constraints and believed he’d either have to return to Angola or study in Portugal. But TCALC encouraged Buenga to apply to Temple and its #WhyUS scholarship. This scholarship allowed him to matriculate in Temple’s nursing program in fall 2023. Ultimately, Buenga aspires to complete his studies here and work in Africa or for an international organization like the Red Cross. 

Outside of the classroom, Buenga has worked at Aramark to practice his English skills, participated in campus recreation, taken trips around Philadelphia and hosted “Games with Antonio” for international students to further improve their English and make connections with one another. 

Buenga’s drive and determination have helped him acclimate to the U.S. and thrive at Temple. 

Once Luana Miki Moreira Sacay made it to the U.S. and Temple, she felt excited to explore and get involved in various activities.  

She’s joined student clubs such as Adventure Bound and Feel Good Cooking. She also hosts a podcast for international students called Owls Beyond Borders and has participated in Campus Recreation’s intramural volleyball tournament.  

Hailing from the city of São Paulo, Brazil, Sacay appreciates the vibrancy and electricity of Philadelphia, where she delights in discovering new places and meeting new people. She enjoys taking hikes in spaces like the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, walking around museums and marveling at the city’s murals. 

Sacay is majoring in global studies and adding a minor in global communication and media arts. Her interest in global economics has been fueled by the support of Assistant Professor Afrin Islam, who makes Sacay excited to learn more about this subject. Sacay is also interested in international politics and particularly the work of the United Nations. 

Ultimately, Sacay’s dream is to have her own travel TV show. She continues to search for opportunities here at Temple and beyond to further follow her passions at both a national and international scale. 

Temple’s theater program caught Andrea Ivana Abate’s attention as she looked for different opportunities to study abroad. She saw that the program featured various possibilities and areas of focus.  

Once she began her classes at Temple, Abate found a collaborative environment in which she could connect with peers and create meaningful relationships. She also found community with Esencia Latina, Temple’s first and only Latinx dance team. 

Abate appreciates that she’s able to explore multiple interests here. One distinction she’s noticed in the U.S. is the offering of minors and certificates in addition to majors. She remains open to how she’ll apply her area of study. 

During her first year at Temple, Abate primarily focused on getting acclimated to Temple and Philadelphia, learning how everything works. She looks forward to becoming more involved in volunteering and participating in the university’s theatrical productions.