Scholar Spotlight: Rengin’s Journey to a Global Education Through the U.S. Dual Diploma Program

Hudson Global Scholar: Rengin Altaç Aslan
Hudson Global Scholars program: Providence Country Day Global Campus U.S. Dual Diploma
Home: Türkiye

Rengin is from Muğla/Dalaman, a beautiful region in Türkiye. As a high school senior, her life is a blend of academic pursuits, sports, and time spent with her beloved pets—a cat and two dogs. She lives with her family, including her brother, and as she prepares to enter the final year of high school, she reflects on her journey, particularly her experience with the Hudson Global Scholars U.S. Dual Diploma program.

Beyond Academics

Beyond academics, Rengin enjoys sports. She likes swimming, badminton, and volleyball, even though she does not pursue them professionally. These activities provide her with an opportunity to clear her mind, stay fit, and spend time with friends.

Why She Chose the U.S. Dual Diploma Program

When Rengin first learned about the U.S. Dual Diploma program, she was intrigued. Like many students, she had dreamed of studying abroad. The idea of living in a different country, experiencing a new culture, and pursuing her education in an international environment excited her. Since she had not yet had the opportunity to study abroad, she viewed the U.S. Dual Diploma program as the perfect way to incorporate that dream into her current reality.

Through this program, she was able to study American high school courses alongside her Turkish curriculum, allowing her to experience the best of both educational systems. Her family was equally thrilled about the opportunity, as it enabled her to receive an international education while remaining in her hometown. She firmly believes that this experience will be invaluable when she eventually pursues higher education abroad.

Favorite Classes and the Joy of Learning

Throughout the program, Rengin has taken 12 different classes, each offering a unique perspective and valuable lessons. Among them, her favorite was the Renewable Energy course. This class not only introduced her to the importance of sustainable energy but also sparked a newfound interest in environmental issues that she had not previously explored.

The joy of learning in this program extended beyond just the course content. The unique structure and varied teaching methods made the experience enriching. Subjects such as geography, web design, and literature were particularly impactful, equipping her with new skills and knowledge that she might not have acquired through her regular school curriculum.

The Best Part of the Program

One of the aspects Rengin appreciated most about the U.S. Dual Diploma program is its ability to provide a refreshing change from her traditional school environment. Unlike her regular classes, which follow the national program of study, the dual diploma courses offered a different kind of academic experience. They allowed her to explore interesting subjects that weren’t offered locally and to tackle the coursework in English.

Navigating Challenges

Balancing the U.S. Dual Diploma program with her local schoolwork was not without its challenges. At times, managing both sets of responsibilities proved difficult. However, she discovered that the key to success lay in the differences between the two curriculums.

The U.S. courses were structured differently from her local curriculum, allowing her to approach them with a more relaxed mindset. In fact, she often used her dual diploma coursework as a way to unwind after long hours of studying for her regular classes. This strategy helped her manage her time effectively and prevented burnout.

For students considering the program, she advises taking advantage of this balance. By viewing the dual diploma courses as an opportunity to explore new interests, students can make the most of the experience while maintaining a manageable workload.

Looking Toward the Future

As Rengin nears the end of her high school journey, her thoughts naturally turn to the future. Passionate about law, she is determined to specialize in this field, with the goal of pursuing a master’s degree in international or comparative law. She believes that the U.S. Dual Diploma program has played a crucial role in preparing her for this path by broadening her perspective and deepening her understanding of global issues.

Studying law—especially in an international context—requires a strong foundation in English, as well as an understanding of different legal systems and cultures. The program has provided her with the opportunity to begin building that foundation while still in high school. The knowledge and skills she has gained will undoubtedly be an asset as she continues her education and works toward her career goals.

Final Thoughts

Reflecting on her experience with the U.S. Dual Diploma program, Rengin is incredibly grateful for the opportunities it has provided. It has allowed her to explore new subjects, balance her academic responsibilities, and prepare for a future she is excited about. For students considering the program, she highly recommends it as a unique and rewarding experience that enhances education while offering a glimpse into international studies—all from the comfort of home.

As she prepares to graduate and take the next steps in her academic journey, she carries with her the lessons she has learned and the experiences she has gained through this program. The future is full of possibilities, and she looks forward to seeing where this journey will take her.