The United States of America is one of the top destinations in the world among students for high-quality education and research. According to the US State Department-funded Open Doors Reports, the number of international students enrolled at US colleges and universities increased by 12% in 2022-23. On the other hand, the number of international students from India in the United States increased by 35% resulting in an all-time high in the intake of students in 2022-23.
Apart from the high-quality education and research opportunities offered, the flexibility of the system allows students to model their academic journey. Students have the freedom to choose the institution, class sizes, professors and research opportunities which also contribute to a rich educational experience.
With the rising number of students and the popularity of US universities and US education increasing among students in India aspirants want to know more about what the universities in the US offer which is better.
Here are some reasons why prospective Indian students must consider the United States as their destination for higher education.
The United States provides aspiring students and researchers with a wide range of options concerning courses offered. This makes the choice of colleges, courses and the application process smoother easing the stress of studying abroad.
Academic Excellence
One of the most highlighted attractions of higher education in the United States is its commitment to academic excellence. Frances Vavrus, Vice Provost and Dean of the international division at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW-Madison) stated that the institution offers research opportunities along with a very vigorous support service to foster the academic and professional success of students.
The range of programmes and academic curricula offered prepare students to launch successful careers. Speaking about the opportunities provided, Anika Chhabra a junior pursuing a degree in industrial and systems engineering mentioned that the North Carolina State University is equipped with amazing resources that help students prepare to graduate and get jobs. She further added that two career fairs in engineering college are conducted every year along with department-specific career fairs which is great if students are looking for jobs or internships in a specific field or role.
Gouru Venkata Revanth Reddy, a College of Agricultural and Natural Resources, Michigan State University graduate student, mentioned that professors at the university emphasized applying theoretical teachings to real-world projects, especially through capstone courses. He added that this not only equips the students with valuable skills but also instils a problem-solving mindset in them crucial for their success in the future.
The options provided by universities concerning courses are immense. Different universities provide provisions which cater to the specific needs of students applying and what they expect their outcome will be after the programme.
Flexibility of Curriculum Offered
Rupali Verma, EducationUSA adviser, New Delhi, stated that the wide range of choices in programmes offered by the US universities attracts foreign students. More than 4000 accredited US Universities are like a pool of knowledge where students get to choose their courses and try various subject options.
Students can choose from a range of subjects and subject combinations and merge them as per their requirements and time. With this students can not only focus on studies but also look for opportunities to widen their horizons outside classes.
Alex Smith, Associate Director of International Admissions, at Michigan State University mentioned that students are provided with the opportunity to study a wide range of subjects along with pursuing other interests outside the classroom. He further pointed out that Indian students also have the opportunity to build a global network, try out new activities and explore areas of interest which were otherwise not available to them in high school.
Diversity in Campus
Campuses in the United States offer complete support services looking into various dimensions of student life. UW-Madison, for example, offers a vibrant campus life which fosters student engagement and enrichment. The campus has a strong Centre for South Asia which hosts relevant events for Indian students, faculty members and staff from other international backgrounds. The city of Madison also has a strong international community within the university and across the city which enriches the student experience, promotes cross-cultural understanding, fosters a sense of belonging and supports collaborative opportunities for students.
When studying abroad students tend to find a community specifically of their own which will help them in their new environment and keep them connected. Through these communities, students can build a network of friends and acquaintances helping them whenever required.
Strong Support Systems
Some main concerns of students applying to US universities are cost, safety and admission requirements. The international admissions team addresses the said concerns by explaining how the university can help students meet their goals by highlighting the support available on campus. The team is always available to help students and families throughout the college search and application process explaining and helping them understand the procedure.
The university team provides resources and assistance to international students to navigate the academic and cultural challenges they face. This fosters the development of a diverse community which enriches the university experience for international students.
NOTE: Published with inputs and permission from SPAN Magazine
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