Why Study Abroad?

More than 1/3 of students pursuing postsecondary education outside their home countries choose to study in the United States. There is a wide variety of students who come from all over the world. Click here for data on international students in the U.S. f or the past 50 years. Chances are you will meet students from your own country, as well as from other countries. The United States is a melting pot of various nationalities and attending university there can give you access to many international resources.

1. Academic Excellence - The United States has one of the world's best college and university systems. Outstanding programs in virtually all fields at the undergraduate and graduate levels afford students the opportunity to work directly with world-renowned professors. U.S. degrees are recognized throughout the world for their excellence. 2. State of the Art Facilities & Technology - Most U.S. colleges and universities strive to expose their students to the best possible equipment and resources available. Even fields that are outside the science or engineering scopes allow students to become skilled in using the latest technology.

3. Research & Teaching Opportunities - U.S. colleges and universities highly value international students as college and university researchers and teachers because international students bring new skills and ideas to the classroom and laboratory. If you are looking for a graduate program, you may be able to gain valuable experience in research or teaching while you help to finance your education. 4. Flexibility - Most U.S. programs allow students to take elective courses across numerous academic fields. There are differences between undergraduate and graduate programs when it comes to flexibility of classes and credits needed to graduate. Most graduate programs are highly structured; however, at the advanced stages of a degree, students can opt to take independent study for a graduate thesis or dissertation. These opportunities allow international students to emphasize ideas that are personally important to their field and country.

5. Variety - The educational system in the United States is designed to meet the needs and interests of every student. There are thousands of programs available to you whether you are looking for an Intensive English Language program, professional training, a two-year degree, or formal undergraduate and graduate degrees. No matter what type of program you seek or what your specific interests are, the United States probably hosts a program that matches those needs.

6. You are not alone! - At most institutions, services from the international student office help students to live and learn in their new U.S. environment. Orientation programs usually are held immediately before classes begin. During orientation students become familiarized with their new environment and learn important information about their legal status as well as university policies. Many institutions will mail orientation information to students ahead of time to give them an idea of what to expect when they arrive on campus. During your time at the institution, your international student advisor will assist you with maintaining your visa status and will serve as a valuable resource for you.

7. Job Marketability - Most students who study in the United States recognize the role of the United States as a global leader, and as such, international students who study in the United States may have an edge over others who don’ t. In addition to your studies, you may have an opportunity to intern for a company in the U.S. as part of your degree program. This work experience in another country can certainly make you more marketable in your future job search.

Read on AllAbroad.us – Why Study Abroad and find answers how study abroad can affect your personal growth and career path.