Empire State University students graduate from international programs

(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – JULY 15, 2024) Empire State University celebrates its international students in the Class of 2024! Over 100 students graduated from SUNY Empire’s international affiliate programs, expanding our network of alumni across the globe.

104 students graduated in Prague, Czech Republic, with the University of New York in Prague on June 26, 2024. SUNY Empire graduates participated in a dual-degree program, allowing them to earn degrees from European and American universities.

Eight students graduated from a partnership program with the Universidad APEC in the Dominican Republic, crossing the stage with fellow SUNY Empire graduates at our Manhattan Commencement ceremony May 17, 2024.

12 students graduated in Tirana, Albania on July 2, 2024 and 13 students graduated from Athens, Greece on July 3, 2024.

Empire State University supports 405 students in our programs with seven locations across the globe including Albania, Czech Republic, Dominican Republic, and Turkey, with two locations in Greece and Lebanon.

Dior Hamja chose Empire State University because of the flexibility to continue their education while living in Albania, earning a degree at an American institution without relocating. Hamja earned a bachelor of science in computer science, following their interests in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

“My experience as an international student at SUNY Empire was great, both in terms of the faculty and the quality of education,” Hamja said. “Beyond academics, I formed lifelong friendships in my personal life.”

Hamja said their courses played a key role in shaping their career trajectory and allowed them to dive further into subjects that interested them with the flexibility that is offered through SUNY Empire’s computer science program.

“While many aspects of computer science can be self-taught, I believe completing a bachelor’s degree allowed me to explore subjects that I might have found too daunting on my own,” Hamja said. “Without a structured education, I may not have been able to discover where my true interests lie.”

Hamja said they plan to pursue a career in cybersecurity and gain firsthand experience, putting the practical experience and skills they gained through SUNY Empire’s degree program to direct use, before returning to school for a higher degree and more specific certifications.