Honduras exchange student receives cords for volunteerism

Keneth Oseguera received Purple and Silver cords for service learning and volunteerism. (Photo submitted)

Keneth Oseguera recently met the requirements for Iowa Wesleyan University’s Purple and Silver Service Learning Cord program for exchange students to the university.

Oseguera was one of two International Exchange students that met the requirement to be presented with their cords. Oseguera was presented with his cords in a ceremony on Dec. 9, 2021 at the Center for International Education at IWU.

In the program, students are required to complete and document 25 hours of service learning or volunteer hours during a semester. The hours have to take place outside of the classroom and cannot be part of a course requirement.

When asked what he did to receive his cords, Oseguera said, “Volunteering was a great experience for me. I did my volunteering work at different places like IW itself, the Quarter Store, and the Fellowship Cup. What I valued most is the work all the volunteers at the Fellowship Cup and IW do. They serve the community with passion and love, and that is a priceless value that I’ll keep with me forever.”

“I did not have any major at IW, since I was an exchange student for one semester only,” said Oseguera. “My plans for the present and the future, now that I am back at home, are to graduate from college and start my master’s degree, or start a business.”

“Being and exchange student in the United States was an amazing experience since the first day,” said Oseguera.

When asked what it was like to be a student at IWU compared to being a student in his home country, Oseguera replied, “The evaluation system, grading, teaching, and class environment are very different. Things are very different compared to my country of origin. Still, I learned a lot, and I could experience a new culture and customs.”

“Mt. Pleasant is a calm, peaceful and welcoming city. Their citizens are very friendly and kind. I had a great experience living and hanging out around town, said Oseguera. “I had the chance to meet awesome people that showed me and gave me more than I could have asked.”