A change of Plans

Malvina Muca Reed, a Senior studying Communications from Durres, Albania never thought in her wildest dreams she would end up at BYU - I. 

"I never thought I would come to America," said Reed. "I tried to get a good education [in Albania] but things weren't going as I had planned."  At that time her best friend was begging her to come to BYU - I, because she had been here for a year.  "I felt like I needed to change something in my life, [so I] prayed about it, and felt good," said Reed. "I applied, and here I am."

Reed has had to face some disadvantages as an International Student at BYU - I. Especially with English, such as trying to take tests and not being able to look up English words she did not know in the dictionary.   "In the beginning it was a challenge, but now very rarely," said Reed. Reed also has a very thick accent so sometimes students would treat her differently. "In class discussions, some students feel that they know better because they can speak English better," said Reed. "My accent is a big thing, and I am working on it."

Reed likes America but misses her culture, food, and a lot of things from her home. "I miss my family and friends, and the living close to the sea.  I love the sea," said Reed.

Reed at one point planned on going back to her country. "Plans were to go back and help develop some things in my country," said Reed. "Since I got married plans have changed. We are planning to raise our family here and visit Albania as often as we can."

In the end, Reed is happy she made the decision to come to BYU - I. She looks forward to graduating soon and starting a family. "I want to be a mother, that's the first thing on my list, and then have my own office at home and work to support my husband."