A double degree is becoming increasingly relevant in today's world, where globalization and international integration play a key role. In this regard, students have an increasing need for a deep understanding of international cultures, languages, and teaching methods, which makes a double degree an attractive option for advanced education.

Ala-Too International University (AIU) stands out as an institution that provides students with a unique opportunity to obtain a dual degree. Through partnerships with prestigious universities and educational institutions in various countries, AIU provides students with access to international educational standards, as well as the opportunity to immerse themselves in a variety of cultural and educational contexts. Students of the IT Faculty of the AIU Bermet Mamatzhalilova and Zhyldyzbek Zhalynbekov have successfully received a visa to the United States and are currently studying in the 3rd year in the IT field at North American University (NAU) as part of a double degree program. According to our students, AIU has prepared them well for joining the global society. Our students shared their impressions and experiences of studying in Silicon Valley.

Bermet: “At first I was worried about how difficult it would be to adapt”

“I am a student of the Computer Science department. Firstly, the freedom of choice of activities here is really impressive. I like the idea that I can make my own schedule and choose lessons according to my convenience. There are many different students on campus from different countries, including Kyrgyzstan. I became friends with them, which made my stay here even more enjoyable. Since I am a shy person, at first, I was worried how difficult it would be to adapt, but as it turned out, the university faculty are very friendly and attentive. I like the teaching method, especially the fact that the courses here are divided into levels, for example, at AIU we taught Web Programming, thanks to this I can already study Advanced Web courses here. English is advanced here, but it's not a problem for me, since I already have experience learning English at AIU. In the beginning, we took only Educational Courses, where we study history and the US government, which is important to learn all the features of local education. And, of course, I appreciate flexible learning opportunities.

The most important type of support from the AIU, in my opinion, was the opportunity to study at NAU. Students who study as part of a double degree at NAU are not required to take all the subjects again, so I took those subjects that I did not take at AIU. Additionally, in the summer, it is possible to complete some courses by studying them online for a month. The benefits of getting two degrees are huge, it not only shows that I studied at two different universities, but also gives me a wide and diverse experience that I appreciate. I would like to express my gratitude to my university and lecturers for providing the opportunity to study abroad and gain international experience. My primary goal is to successfully graduate from the university and complete an internship here. I want to further develop the IT sector in Kyrgyzstan.”

Zhyldyzbek: “Strong students from all over the world study at NAU and this motivates me even more”

“Here I am at the Software Engineering department. I am attracted to NAU and AIU by the opportunity to study with lecturers with international experience. The lessons here are generally similar, but at NAU they follow the American education system. Now I'm adapting to a new environment and trying to immerse myself in the local culture. I notice that selected students from around the world study here, which motivates me even more. The professors have a wealth of experience and high human qualities.

I would like to note that thanks to AIU, I have mastered English well, and now I am trying to actively speak at an advanced level. At the moment, the details of the internship are still unknown, but after receiving my bachelor's degree, I will have a year to gain experience and find a job. I am grateful to lecturers, in particular Gulzada Esenalieva, for their great support during the selection for the program and in the learning process. I am sure that having two degrees from universities in two countries will have a strong impact on my career in IT. After graduation, I plan to do an internship at a large IT company and launch my own startup.”

It is important to emphasize that our students have been carefully preparing, demonstrating high academic performance from the first year to become participants in the double degree program. The example of Zhyldyzbek and Bermet can have a positive impact on other students, inspiring them to strive for academic and professional growth. We wish them great success and believe that they will represent the AIU with pride in the international arena.

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