Why study in the USA: 5 reasons why you should choose the US
There is a reason why American universities are among the most prestigious educational institutions in the world. They apply an innovative operational system, modern curriculum and they are open to international students. These are just some of the reasons why international students decide to study in the US.
What are the greatest benefits of studying in the United States?
Education is an extremely important process which prepares an individual to face various life challenges. The quality of a chosen school and teaching staff determine whether an individual will reach their full potential, which is an additional reason for a careful selection when it comes to choosing a higher education institution.
So why study in the USA? Firstly, the US educational system comprises prestigious institutions which take special care of each student and his/her development. Additionally, a multicultural environment makes a foreigner feel at home, which in turn provides the reason why the USA is the most desired destination for international students from all over the world. Of course, prior to making such an important decision on a study destination, it is necessary to get a detailed insight into the benefits of studying in the US.
1. Flexible education system
The US educational system allows their undergraduates to select their major and minor subjects. Thus, undergraduates are given excellent educational opportunities to study quite varied areas (for example: biology and mathematics). The possibility to choose subjects encourages undergraduates to study the fields which are most attractive for them, that will help them acquire the knowledge necessary for their future career. Of course, each subject is related to certain requirements which have to be fulfilled in order to receive a degree.
It is clear that selecting a major presents an important decision which defines the education altogether. Fortunately, at most universities, typically, such a choice is not made within the first two years of studying. It often happens that undergraduates postpone selecting a major as long as they can as they find it difficult to decide which area interests them most. It makes a huge difference when the US system is compared to other educational systems that require selecting a major at the beginning of studies. The US flexible education system provides an opportunity for undergraduates to get to know the subject materials first so they can have enough time to decide what interests them most.
2. Use of technology in education
Modern technologies are not only a study subject, but are actively used at a large number of colleges and universities. The modern technologies are used to improve the learning process and to enable receiving best possible results in all study program areas. Such an approach opens up numerous possibilities, for instance distance learning, that allows students active participation in lectures though they may not be physically present. All this is possible thanks to a well-developed eLearning system which offers lectures, study materials and tests to all undergraduates through cloud technology.
Besides, cutting-edge technology is available in classrooms, quite often in the form of tools teachers use during their lectures. Though computer science is often thought of first in terms of technology, it is, actually, applied in a variety of fields. Thus, even business management, social sciences, liberal arts rely significantly on new technological developments (3D printers, virtual reality, computer animation, electronic music…). Because of all the previously stated, technologies are an inseparable part of study programs at a large number of the US universities, regardless of a selected field.
3. US college degree is a fantastic job recommendation
The US educational system provides excellent programs enabling an undergraduate to gain a wide variety of skills. The fact is that studying in the USA provides modern high quality knowledge, not only the theoretical one, but the one applicable in praxis. These are just some of the reasons to study at US colleges and universities.
For starters, English language skill, knowledge and good marks can enable a person to get an internship and the possibility for professional growth at some of the leading world companies. Furthermore, a large number of undergraduates start working while still at college/university in order to gain valuable experience and make their knowledge and skills noticeable. Work experience acquired in such a manner when combined with a university degree enables getting an excellent job anywhere in the world.
4. Support for international students
In order to help international students settle in a new environment and different educational system, colleges offer various programs of support, for instance, international scholarships. Although choosing the USA may be a good decision, it inevitably imposes certain challenges, from encounter with cultural diversity, separation from home to grasping how things are done at college.
Wishing to provide support for international students, colleges assist with the application process, offering additional clarification of necessary procedures related to the enrollment into study programs. Upon arrival, a student is given a thorough insight into academic life, from providing their status through a student visa, to managing expenses, assistance to find a job, to providing health care and accommodation. Some types of assistance are as follows:
- Career Support – international students can count on educational institutions’ support with regard to providing internships, as well as support when looking for the first job. There are numerous programs through which counselors assist students to prepare for a graduation ensuing career.
- International Student Services Office – upon arrival international students often feel overwhelmed. Besides, finding themselves on another continent, in a very short time international students need to take care of some basic things, such as opening a bank account and finding a place to live. Apart from that, at the beginning, many require assistance with learning as they encounter a different educational system, and sometimes undergraduates may experience language related problems.
- Classes for International Students – some colleges provide international students’ lectures only. These allow specific adaptation to the American education system, with special attention to students’ acclimatization to new living conditions (learning about American culture).
These are just some of the methods that help international students from all over the world learn about new principles of education. Thanks to this support system, international students find it easier to meet college requirements and resolve all living abroad related issues.
5. Campus experience
The thing a large number of international students are eager to learn about is a campus experience. For many, it is an opportunity to meet new friends and learn about various cultures from all over the world. A campus is a place where students often socialize in student clubs as well as participate in a wide array of activities such as sport, arts, volunteering etc. Thus, undergraduates meet their future business partners, establishing links for life.
Additionally, a campus offers a large number of benefits that affect students’ quality of life, which in turn makes studying easier. As a result, all feel welcome, knowing that they have full support on the part of their respective college, throughout years of education as well as for their professional development.
How to become a US undergraduate?
Now we know why studying in the US is a good idea; however, the question is how to do that? As anywhere in the world, it is necessary to submit a high school diploma, though some colleges require candidates to take an admission test as well. Depending on the selected institution, these tests may be SAT or ACT, although there are colleges that do not require this type of prior knowledge evaluation.
When applying for studying in the US, it is necessary not only to provide a certain document, but to write an essay and present oneself in the best possible way (recommendations, exceptional achievements in fields such as sport, music or science). While test results can indicate current level of knowledge, the essay and presenting personal talents and achievements can help a student stand out among other candidates.
In order to be admitted to a college, a person needs to be excellent at the English language, which usually implies that a candidate has to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Still, this requirement is not a universal one, as a lot of colleges and universities have their own language standards. With compliance to that, some institutions require their candidates to attend English language classes prior to their degree program.
Finance related issues are of paramount importance as tuition fees can be extremely high. Fortunately, there are numerous funds that offer scholarships for international students. Besides, universities and colleges often provide benefits for exceptionally talented individuals. A budget plan is important as it directly affects obtaining a student visa and the quality of the studying experience.
It is also advisable to enter the US educational system as early as possible (at the level of middle or high school) as that will in many ways enable a smooth transition to college/university experience easier, which in turn is a path to achieving academic excellence. When quality education is provided, all other potential issues can be easily solved because each graduate student will have an opportunity to start a career in their field of study.
