UCA athletics often welcomes students from around the world to become student-athletes and help grow the programs. For senior Lenja Kenstel, a business major from Hamburg, Germany, leaving home meant more than moving continents; it meant stepping into an entirely new environment and life.

Kenstel shared that in Germany, universities often don’t sponsor athletic programs, making it challenging for students to pursue both high-level academics and competitive sports like soccer. UCA offered something special for her: a chance to grow on and off the field. 

“I wanted to step out of my comfort zone and build my own life somewhere new,” Kenstel said. 

During the recruiting process, Kentsel saw an opportunity to be independent and travel while playing the sport she loves. She confidently chose UCA after coaches made her feel valued, and conversations with other international players gave her a sense of home while away from Germany. 

“I felt the team chemistry and the positive environment right away,” Kenstel said. 

Adjusting to life away from home in Arkansas came with several challenges. Starting with the summer heat, setting up an American bank account and phone number, handling housing and figuring out currency differences made her first days feel endless. As well as getting to know multiple teammates’ and staff members’ names.  Language was another cultural difference. Kenstell had a good English background in school; understanding American slang, accent, and humor was one of the biggest challenges to learn and fully understand. 

“Small talk isn’t a thing at home,” Kenstel said, “but here, it’s part of everyday life.”

Kenstel saw an opportunity to offer different soccer perspectives to staff members and teammates and to share her culture along the way. 

“I brought a different playing style and tactical background,” Kenstel said. “People come to me to learn more about Germany or even ask for travel advice.” 

After Lenja got used to cultural exchanges and faced multiple challenges of adaptation, she expressed that living abroad gets better over time. 

“You build a kind of new identity abroad. After a while, you even feel somewhat American,” Kenstel said.
Living abroad and adjusting from life in Germany to Arkansas helped Kenstel appreciate what she misses most from home, like public transportation and the local food culture. At the same time, adapting to a new country opened the door to personal growth, pushing her to face uncomfortable situations and learn constantly. Kenstel shared advice for other international students facing cultural changes.

“Be ready to step out of your comfort zone. Don’t isolate yourself, and don’t compare everything to home. If you fully commit, it’s the best experience in the world,” Kenstel said. 

For Lenja and other international student-athletes, UCA is more than just a place to play Division I sports. It’s a place to belong, grow and experience different cultures while bringing a piece of home along the journey.