Kareem Alhusaini, 19, had to pass through three border crossings to reach the airport in Amman, Jordan, and then fly more than 6,000 miles to arrive at his destination - Westminster College in Fulton.
For Alhusaini, a Palestinian from the West Bank, arriving at Westminster before courses started was no easy task. But he made it in time for the start of classes on Wednesday, arriving at the school Aug. 15, just five days after finally receiving his visa.
Most freshmen don't have the same obstacles to overcome as Alhusaini when it comes to beginning their college career. Students coming to Fulton to study at either Westminster or William Woods University speak of the "exciting" experience that involves moving out of their homes and gaining some independence.