STUDENT SPOTLIGHT, November 2026
The Office of Student Affairs is excited to introduce our November International Student Spotlight! Each month, we feature one of our amazing international students and give our Angelina College community an opportunity to learn more about their home country, culture, experiences, and goals.
Meet Emilia Venoe Piil from Odense, Denmark!
Emilia is a freshman at Angelina College, majoring in Business Management and Administration, and is on track to graduate in 2028. She is also a student-athlete on the Roadrunner Women’s Soccer Team! Emilia came to Angelina College for the opportunity to continue playing the sport she loves while experiencing a new culture and pursuing her education in the United States.
Q: What is your name, where are you from, and what are you studying?
A: My name is Emilia Piil, and I’m from Denmark. I’m studying Business Management and Administration at Angelina College.
Q: What made you decide to come to the United States for college?
A: I wanted to try something different and experience college soccer, which isn’t something we have back home in Denmark. I thought it would be a great opportunity to continue playing soccer while getting an education and experiencing a new country.
Q: What is something you love about your home country that you wish everyone knew about?
A: Denmark is a small country, so you never have to travel very far to get from one town to another. We have a beautiful culture, lots of traditions, and some really interesting attractions. Denmark is also home to Hans Christian Andersen and LEGO!
Q: What food from home do you miss the most?
A: I really miss Danish tartlets and meatballs in curry sauce!
Q: What has surprised you the most about living in Texas?
A: How kind and welcoming everyone is! People here are so friendly.
Q: What is your favorite thing about living in the United States so far?
A: I love experiencing a different culture, trying new things, and having the opportunity to be on my own and become more independent.
Q: What is your favorite holiday or tradition from your home country?
A: I love celebrating Christmas and New Year’s with my parents. Those are special traditions that I really enjoy back home.
Q: What has been your favorite memory since coming to Angelina College?
A: Some of my favorite memories have been traveling to Miami with the soccer team and going on the international student trip to Dallas to watch the Dallas Stars play ice hockey!
Q: Tell us one fun fact about yourself!
A: When I was very young, my father and I wrote a book together about my childhood! It started with my memories of watching the Tour de France when I was just four years old.
Q: What advice would you give another international student thinking about studying in the United States?
A: I would tell them that it’s okay to miss your family and friends when you’re so far away from home. But it’s also important to take advantage of new experiences and opportunities that you might not have back home. And always remember, your family and friends are only a phone call away!
We’re so happy to have Emilia as part of our Angelina College family! 💙
Media note: This is an original Angelina College feature. For republication or photo use, please contact Angelina College.