Natália Antošová, an LSU graduate student from Slovakia, is working with LSU AgCenter International Programs to help promote study abroad opportunities for LSU students. (Photo by Tobie Blanchard, LSU AgCenter)

News Release Distributed 11/03/15

BATON ROUGE, La. – Natália Antošová wants to help LSU students have a similar experience to the one she is having.

Antošová came to LSU from Slovakia to pursue a graduate degree in agricultural economics. She received her bachelor’s degree from the Slovak University of Agriculture (SUA) in Nitra, Slovakia.

The LSU College of Agriculture has partnered with the SUA for student and faculty exchanges and research collaboration. Faculty at SUA recommended Antošová for the exchange program. This is her first time in the U.S.

“Everything is so different, but school is spectacular,” Antošová said. “Here there is a higher class of facilities and services.”

Antošová, who is in her first semester of graduate school, said the studies are challenging.

“School is demanding. Studies are deeper and move at a quick pace,” she said.

Being away from home and family commitments allows her to focus on school more, Antošová said. But that doesn’t mean she spends all of her time studying. In her short time at LSU, she has found ways to become involved in campus life.

She recently participated in the LSU homecoming parade with the LSU International Student Association. She said it was exciting being a part of the parade and seeing so many students proud of their heritages.

Antošová said she enjoys the atmosphere and hospitality on campus.

“Everyone is willing to help,” she said. “I have met many people and made friends. Every day is so rich.”

As part of the exchange, Antošová is working for the LSU AgCenter International Programs department as an international relations student adviser.

“I bring information to students about opportunities to travel and study abroad and organize events, and promote study abroad in every way,” she said.

Students interested in study abroad opportunities can visit with Antošová during her office hours on Mondays and Wednesdays from 1 to 2 p.m. in 142 Woodin Hall on the LSU campus.

Antošová plans to be in the U.S. for two years while she works on her degree. She said she would like to return to Europe to work in international trade.