Anastasiia Pavlova has built her journey around courage and ambition. From the Samara region of Russia to Southern California, her path reflects a willingness to embrace change and create opportunities far beyond her hometown. After graduating high school in Russia, Anastasiia moved to the United States with the support of Kings Education. She began her academic journey in California and transferred to California State University, Fullerton, where she has spent the past two years studying Business Administration. Now, she is preparing for her next chapter: transferring to the University of California, San Diego to pursue Business Economics and Finance.
Anastasiia's decision to study in the United States came from a deep curiosity about the world and a desire to experience new cultures. Drawn to America's global influence in business and economics, she saw the opportunity not only to study abroad, but to challenge herself personally and academically. While receiving her acceptance was exciting, she says the reality of the journey truly set in the moment she stepped off the plane. Looking back now, she describes studying in the U.S. as the best decision of her life.
Inspired by her parents' interest in economics and business, Anastasiia developed a passion for understanding how the financial world works from an early age. Her studies in Business Administration strengthened that passion and gave her the confidence and practical skills to pursue a future in finance and economics. Along the way, she leaned on campus resources and support systems that helped her grow both professionally and personally.
Beyond the classroom, Anastasiia became deeply involved in campus life. She joined organizations such as the Women's Business Association and Women in Business & STEM, where she expanded her professional network, developed leadership skills, and built lasting friendships with students from around the world. She also took advantage of resources like the Writing Center, Student Recreation Center, the Vault internship platform, and financial programs like VITA and the on-campus U.S. Bank branch to support her academic and career goals.
Throughout her journey, Anastasiia credits King's advisors for helping guide her transition to life in the United States. From finding housing to navigating transfer applications and career planning, she found encouragement and support every step of the way. Their guidance helped her successfully reach one of her biggest goals: admission to her dream school. Most importantly, Anastasiia is proud of the person she has become. Moving across the world pushed her outside her comfort zone, but it also showed her that she could thrive in a completely new environment: academically, socially, and personally. Her advice to other international students is simple: don't let fear or language barriers hold you back. Join the clubs, attend the events, and fully experience everything around you.
Anastasiia's story is about more than studying abroad it's about embracing opportunity, building community, and believing in your ability to succeed anywhere in the world.
