Last year, a record 764,500 international students studied at US colleges. The country is the largest and most popular destination for students from all over the world.
The United States of America – commonly called just America – is made up of 50 states. It is the third most populous country in the world with approximately 315,045,000 people. And due to its enormous size, it has incredibly diverse climates and geographies.
How to study in the USA?
The United States has one of the best education systems in the world , with excellent courses in virtually every field of study imaginable. The US higher education system has something to offer students of all tastes and walks of life. With so many amazing institutions to choose from, you’re sure to find something that fits your interests and goals. Also, American institutions are totally used to receiving international students.
US colleges and universities offer many different courses in each discipline, providing international students with flexible and versatile study opportunities. You will find that students in American higher education are free to change their courses or build them in the way they prefer and that best meet their personal and professional interests – whether combining English with philosophy, or other very different areas, such as contemporary music. It is history.
Studying in America also means having opportunities to pursue graduate degrees, academic research and teacher training. Many of the leading studies in medicine, technology and science are American.
According to the 2012 – 2013 World’s Best University Rankings by Times Higher Education, the United States has 15 institutions in the top 20, including the California Institute of Technology at number one and Stanford University at number two.
Beyond US classrooms
In addition to giving extreme importance to studies in the classroom, education in the United States also offers a large amount of extracurricular activities. There are countless and diverse options of cultural clubs, social groups and sports societies maintained by the institutions to meet all tastes and interests of their students. There is always something to do beyond the classrooms.
These extracurricular activities are a great way to meet new people with common interests and have fun doing something you enjoy.
Every US state is different – with different values, customs and landscapes. From the bright and bustling state of New York to the desert of Nevada, from the beaches and theme parks of Florida to the mountains of Alaska… America has spectacular scenery and scenery, no matter where you go. As an international student in the land of Uncle Sam, you will definitely have plenty of opportunities to explore the country.
The weather in the United States
The Pacific Northwest – which includes the states of Washington and Oregon – is probably the wettest region in the country, and has an average temperature of 32°C (and may reach higher numbers during the summer).
The South and Middle Pacific regions include California, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah and Montana. These states tend to have fairly dry weather in the summer. California is known for its great weather (even in winters) and beautiful beaches, while Colorado, Utah and Nevada are known for their snowy winters, which are popular with skiers.
If you’re in the southwest – Arizona, Texas, Oklahoma and some parts of Louisiana and Arkansas – then you’re in the warmest regions, but also high rainfall. Summers tend to exceed an average of 38°C. The states of Dakota, Michigan, Wisconsin, Indiana and Illinois form the Midwest region. Despite being dry, the weather in these places can be quite cold, with snow and wind – in some spots, it reaches -40°C! But in summer, the weather is pleasant and you can enjoy the outdoors a little.
It is important to have an idea of the climate where you are going to study in order to know how to pack your suitcase. There are still other American states, each with a different climate. Research the region where you will study before leaving.
Moving to a country as diverse and incredible as the United States is a fantastic opportunity personally, culturally, touristically and professionally. Make the most of your stay in the United States and you’ll have the adventure of a lifetime.