The land of dreams isn’t for everyone but it is definitely for the students who choose the USA as their study destination.
Head to Las Vegas, catch a show or Cruise around Alaska? No matter which one’s your favourite, you are likely to find a set you’re interested in when exploring the USA.
We all know that the United States is an extra special destination when exploring the study abroad options. But finding the right university is one of the biggest decisions that you will make in terms of your education.
The United States of America has always been at the top in the list of countries that provide quality higher education. As a matter of fact, nearly 50 of the top 200 universities in the world are based in the USA .
Few High Ranked universities include:-
- Arizona State University, Phoenix
- George Mason University, Fairfax County, Virginia
- University of Illinois, Chicago
And many more!
One of the most popular higher education structures in the USA is the widely acclaimed Ivy League which is a group of eight reputed USA universities. The admission process for any international student begins at least 15 to 18 months before the actual proposed date of admission.
How to Choose the Right University in the USA?
With thousands of universities to choose from, finding the best university that serves your career and life goals is a process that differs between individuals based on what they aspire to become. Here are some key factors that should be researched in order to make a wise decision to find the right university that fits you the best.
Identify your Passion
Do not underestimate your intuition, said Steve Jobs and thousands of other successful people who have changed the game in their own fields. Chances of living a fulfilled life is higher when you base your career on what you are passionate about. Identify your interests, strengths and choose a course that will help you launch your career in the field that you will really enjoy spending your life in.
Research the best universities
Make a shortlist of the institutions you are interested in and thoroughly research each one. Check university websites for official information, course prospectus and even student forums. But, the most useful and interesting information can be obtained from talking to the alumni of the institution. Find them on social media and seek their guidance in understanding the institution, courses, career prospects, the city and even other trivial information that will come handy when you move to the new country. University pages on LinkedIn can also be useful in finding the students and alumni and see what careers they have entered.
Course content
Most institutions today have their course modules uploaded on their website. Do go through the modules of the course you want to pursue and also cross check with other institutions for the same course as there could be variations in the curriculum each university provides. Identify which university’s curriculum matches your career goals the most and go for it.
Professional Experience
Course curriculum are one thing, but you also need to look at what else your degree is offering. Some universities have partnership with well-known companies such as Google, Apple, Toyota and Coca Cola, which can provide students placement or internship opportunities even before they graduate. With such pertinent experience, it will give you a competitive advantage in searching for career advancement in the future.
Support
While moving abroad for education, it is important to be a part of the student community that cares about and supports its members. Do research if the university has student unions that help newcomers with guidance and support on health, course and finances. Learn how they function and the procedures to avail their help when you run into one of those situations that will require help from fellow students. Having this sense of security and belonging will improve your living and learning experience in the new country.
Consider the Finances
Finance should not be a barrier to education but, unfortunately, for many this isn’t true. For a lot of potential applicants, this is a huge factor in their eventual career choice. Of course, ‘choose the cheapest option’ is not sound advice, and we recommend that you explore all the funding avenues available. If you find out that some of the US universities you are interested in may be too expensive for you, that doesn’t mean that you have to cross them off the list. Most universities in the US offer scholarships and other financial aid packages for the eligible and deserving candidates given they apply in time.
Campus Visit
It is essential to check out the campus and the surrounding area first-hand. Attending open days and university fairs is a good opportunity to meet current students and staff and ask any questions you have, which will better inform your judgement. You can also get an actual ‘feel’ of the place. Before you go, make a checklist of the things that may be important to you and see how each of your choices fare.
Location of your Study Choice
You dream about studying in the US, but the experience of living and studying in one state could be very different from that of the other state. Each state has its own personality, unique culture, climate, economy, history and more. You could do research on the cost of living, climate, population and other factors that matter to you and shortlist the locations.
Now that we have all the required information, choosing your preferred university and packing bags are the next big steps. Let AECC Global assist you in discovering the classic American experience! Welcome to the land of the free and home of the brave – the USA! Contact us now.