Meet international students in the USA

from China
major Quantitative Finance
graduating May 2012

"The best thing about studying here is that I get to learn about different cultures, values and beliefs. In the past year, I got the opportunity to know students from all over the world, and became friends with them. While learning about other cultures, I realized what my own culture is. The diversity is definitely one of the best things.

I chose JMU because of several reasons. The business program rocks. I believe I can learn a lot from it and become competitive with the material I learn here when I go out and look for jobs. I like the weather here especially during the spring and summer... but the weather in the fall is even more beautiful! I can lie on the grass and enjoy the breeze and sunshine while I am reading. I enjoy the smell of nature here. Last but not least, my uncle's family lives nearby. They helped me a lot. Also it feels good to live near them.

I love JMU so much - the learning experience is fantastic because of several reasons. First, as a result of living in a dorm I learned tons of stuff from my roommate especially in terms of language and culture. We became such close friends that we decided to be roommates again next year. Second, JMU organizes many programs throughout the year for the international students to make sure that JMU becomes their second home but also for us to explore and learn about different cultures. We went to a haunted cave for Halloween, we went to a professor's house for Thanksgiving dinner, we had a Chinese week, a taste of Africa and many other activities. Third, the academics here are excellent. Our business program ranks in the top 50 of the nation, the Computer Information Systems and Management Science department is in the top ten and Accounting in the top twenty. Therefore I believe the experiences you can get as an international student here at JMU are unique.

At JMU, I always find myself involved in many programs or of course activities along with other students including American students. I made a lot of good friends here in JMU. Personally I really recommend JMU just because of that. Here in JMU you can not only learn knowledge, but also a better chance to improve your English skills, learn the culture and make a lot of friends. We have an international dorm here where you live with other international students, as well as other open minded American students. There are always international programs that you really want to go but you can't because every program is so good and you don't have time to go to every one of them. Life is not all about studying. Life includes a real 'life', and JMU can provide a real international student life for you."

from Mumbai, India
major MBA (second year student)

"It's always been a childhood dream of mine to come to the great US of A. I chose Woodbury University because I knew it would offer great exposure to various cultures and it's excellent in the field of education. It's one of the best universities offering an MBA and they were willing to accept me on short notice.

Study Group provided me with all the information I needed, especially since I was practically on the other side of the planet when I applied! They made the whole process so easy."

from Vietnam
major Business (Finance concentration)

"Studying in the USA gives me more opportunities to practice what I study and have chances to do internship in some big companies which are famous around the world. The value of an American degree is recognized all over the world so that I will not regret the effort and money I spend. More than that, the schedule is flexible for me because I can choose the classes and subjects I feel interested in.

I consider Study Group as a transition step to Pacific Lutheran University. They provided a good service for the application process. Also, they provided me with a lot of help when I first came to the USA. I find everything I want at Pacific Lutheran University. The school provides good facilities as well as good services for students and there are many chances to learn outside of the classroom.

After I graduate, I want to apply for a job to practice what I have learned in the real world. Then after one year, I will apply for graduate school."

from Japan
major Accounting (after ESL program)

"I decided it would be best for me to study in the US where I could learn English and study American accounting. Albright College has a good reputation and offers small class sizes and a friendly atmosphere. I also like the fact that I can major in more than one area. When I have questions there is always someone on campus who can assist me. I have made a lot of good friends at Albright and I've also had the opportunity to experience American culture."

from Japan
year Sophomore
major Associate in Sociology

"Each culture has its own 'taken-for-granted', which sometimes hinders our critical thinking. Thinking outside of the box often clears up problems that seem to be complicated. Studying abroad has helped me gain different perspectives by putting me 'outside of the box.' Once you come to the US, you can build your life from scratch, free from what you have had before. You can even become a different person, according to how you use your time and make an effort.

Through focusing on studying, I considerably enhanced my ability to understand different points of view, due to generous support of my advisor, Mrs. Joey DuPont*, who checked my essays and assisted my transfer applications. I learned that my success in the US depends on how I envision my future and how much I really expect of myself. I am transferring to a four-year institution after graduating from Dean College in order to continue exploring 'outside of the box.'

I must tell you that I'm very grateful for what Study Group have done for me. I had wonderful days at the beginning of my college life."

* Student Advising and Support Service manager  

age: 19
level: undergraduate
year: Freshman
major: Psychology

"Leaving everything behind and going abroad on my own has been very exciting and challenging. It took me about two months to get used to a new lifestyle - living away from my family and adapting to a new environment with different food and customs. However, I have both international and American friends at Lasell College who reach out to me when I need any help. My professors are always willing to help if I have problems with my work, and I also get lots of support from my personal advisor*.

At Lasell College, I enjoy hanging out with my friends after class, and there are several campus activities where you can have fun. I chose this college because it offers small class sizes, which gives you an opportunity to get close with your classmates and professors. Also, it is a suitable place to study since it is surrounded by a nice and quiet environment.

Studying abroad is a big change in my life, but it is a good way for me to experience other cultures and develop independence. I will remember my meaningful experiences at Lasell College throughout my life."

* Yuki takes advantage of our Student Advising and Support Service

from India
major MBA

"Education in the USA is more practical-oriented and the value of a US university degree is more recognized all around the world than any other country. The system of education in USA is well organized and quality people are making it more and more productive. By studying in US universities, you will learn so many things that you can get very good returns in respect of experience, money and above all job satisfaction.

You'll also get more exposure towards the real and practical aspects of life in respect of studying business. As an MBA student I interact with people from around the world: students, faculty, staff and professionals during Curricular Practical Training (CPT).

I chose the CW Post campus of Long Island University because it is the most beautiful University in USA: it's huge and beautiful! Also, its MBA major has one of the best accreditations: AACSB.

The faculty at Long Island University are so dedicated and highly motivated. There is kind of family bond in between students and the faculty. Administrative people in the University are ready to help you out at any time. They are just an e-mail away.

When I graduate, my first preference will be to continue my studies at LIU. After studying here, even for just a year, no one can leave this campus. Anyone can fall in love with the campus, such a lovely campus it is.

When I compare myself with my friends who did not apply through Study Group, I feel lucky. My friends faced lots of trouble and hurdles in the university application process. But with the help of Study Group my application was so easy and enjoyable. I saved lot of money as Study Group helped me in choosing good universities, so I did not waste my money in unnecessary applications. My application process was quick. It was just a matter of submitting a bunch of all the required documents to Study Group. That's it -you are done!

Above all, Study Group administration people are so organized that you can get to know your application status from your home country just by dialing the Study Group phone. They are highly skilled and moreover very friendly. I met so many nice people from Study Group, from Mumbai to Manhattan."

from Dalarna, Sweden 
major BA in Business Administration Management

Anders completed his undergraduate degree in May 2008. This enabled him to take 12 months of paid Optional Practical Training, working in administration for an international corporation in New York City.

"My degree at New England College gave me a solid training in the business world, but I had no relevant work experience. Optional Practical Training has given me the opportunity to work in the most exciting city in America, and earn a salary. I have started to pay off the cost of my education, as well as adding great experience to my resume. I have put the theory gained at university into practice in a stimulating work environment. I also get to live in New York City for a year and gain real life experience of working in the American economy."

from Vietnam
age 19
year freshman
major Global Business

"Studying abroad is always a dream of every student all over the world, but not everyone has a chance to do it. When this great opportunity came to me, I was really excited but felt somewhat afraid of it because I have to leave all of my successes that I have tried to gain in Viet Nam. However, I finally decided to go to America, as I believe that there is nothing a willing person cannot achieve here. Sierra Nevada College has not disappointed me. This college is so amazing; it brings me new knowledge, experiences and culture as well as friends from many places in the world. I also have plenty of useful lectures because this college has such small classes that I can have many discussions with my friendly teachers. When I graduate from Sierra Nevada College, I will have many important skills that I can bring back to my native country."

from Colombia
studying on the ESL program

"When I first came to Merrimack College, I didn't know what to expect. I was afraid of being alone, and I questioned how I would be able to communicate with other people at school. I soon realized that I had a lot of incredible people surrounding me - both teachers and students - and soon felt at home. I would repeat this experience again, because I have not only improved my English, I have also grown as a person. If I had to say everything I felt in one simple word that would be 'appreciation'."

from China
major Business (after the ESL Transition Program)

"The quality of the education in America is really famous through the whole world, and this is the main reason why I choose to come to the USA to continue my further education. Study Group help students get into the universities where they want to much faster than apply by themselves. And it is very helpful when you first come to the USA.

The best thing about studying in the USA is excellent studying environment and professors. PLU is really good. I like the small classes most. Normally, there are about 25 students in one class. So each student can get relatively more help from professors than studying in huge classes.

After graduation, I might continue studying master's degree in the USA, or I might begin to work. I haven't decided yet."

from Vietnam
major Finance, Economics and Accounting

"I majored in Finance, Economics and Accounting. This is a combined major track that Albright has to provide you with a broader background of the business world. It's very helpful that you know a bigger picture of what you're getting into. I'm very glad that I chose this major. After graduation, I got an internship at GIC Group through the Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars. I learned a lot of research skills and how to work in a professional environment. It really helps my future career.

Albright has a very beautiful landscape and a wonderful service for international students. You can have any question answered regarding your visa, storage during the summer... at the Multi-Ethnic Student Affairs office."

from China
major Business - Accounting concentration (after the ESL Transition Program)

"I chose to come to the USA to university because of the high quality of the education and good study environment. Not only learning academic classes, but also learn how to work with people, and getting different experience through the activities. Studying in the USA is a happy thing, even the study is hard and homework is much, studying here is fun, and teach you how to study by yourself.

Pacific Lutheran University is beautiful, and its rank is high. It's a small university which has its own advantages. You have the chance to communicate directly with professors. Most people encourage you to try something new - it's the best experience for knowing different things.

I plan on going to Graduate School after I finish my degree.

The class is hard for students when they first time came to the US. The ESL Transition Program is a good chance for you to know what the class is like in the US. The program teaches you some basic skills you need when you go to the university, such as paper writing skill, and presentation skill. It's also a good time for you to learning the culture."

from Russia
major Business

"Since I was a child I have been learning about business, so studying in the US appealed to me as the country has such a strong economy. The classes here at Woodbury University are small and the professors are always available to students. And the small campus makes the University feel really cozy."

from South Korea
age 26
major Business Management (after the ESL Transition Program)

"I have been happy since I first came to Boston. Boston is a very great city with a lot of good restaurants. I can eat Japanese, French, Korean and Mexican food. I like Boston people, they are kind and enjoy sports. Also, Boston has teams in all world's major sports. During the year, I can watch any sport I like. Fisher College is nice and the location is near some great places. I can go shopping easily. When I feel stressed, I can go to Boston Common and the Charles River. Both make me feel relaxed.

The College has a great cafeteria with good food and many tables where I can watch TV, eat some food and talk with friends. Finally, I like my ESL Transition Program - I have good teachers with great teaching styles. There are great facilities that the teachers use, like the Smart Boards, which mean I always feel like learning."

from Hong Kong
program Bachelor's degree
major Psychology

"The US education system is flexible, with many different areas of study before you have to choose a major. I liked that throughout the application process I received personal service and there was a good line of communication between me, Study Group and Albright College. And the small size of the college with small class size makes Albright very warm. I like that I can walk across campus and see a lot of friends."

from France
level undergraduate
major Engineering (after the ESL Transition Program)

"The Tacoma and Seattle area is a beautiful place and great for study. The international environment here at Pacific Lutheran University is really friendly. I would tell other students: 'Come here! It's very good. It has a great ambiance, the teachers are great and you will learn a lot of English.' I want to be an engineer for boats and PLU is very good for Engineering."

from Indonesia
age 27
level graduate
program English preparation
major MEd Educational Technology

"A very good teacher and a very interesting curriculum drive me to enjoy learning in the International Study Center. I have been preparing not only English skill but also study skill and American culture. The program helps me to get a success in studying in one of America's top universities: James Madison University. This is really interesting experience that I have never had before."

from Taiwan
age 18
level undergraduate
major Fashion Merchandise (after the ESL Transition Program)

"Before, I was scared to study in the US. But now I am happy to be here. Fisher is a small school, but very sweet. The teachers are very nice. They always help international students that have difficulty. Because of that I don't feel too much alienation in this country. I think you should give yourself a chance and study in US!

Since I was a young boy, I have been planning to study in the US. Because I like fashion very much, I decided to study fashion design. I am a Phase II Transition Program student. The teachers are very patient, when I have a difficulty or misunderstanding, they always encourage me to work hard. They help me a lot and give me a lot of opportunities.

I think Boston is a beautiful and convenient city, because there are big public parks and shopping places. Also, the food in Boston is very delicious. I think Boston's people are really nice, because they always welcome to help others."

from Vietnam
program Bachelor of Science
major Business Administration

"I compared education systems throughout the world and saw that I would get the best education in the US. Before Study Group I did try to apply to colleges by myself and I got lost in the process. Study Group made things so much easier for me and I was able to gain admission to Albright College, which has a small, close-knit community and interesting social life - making it unique. I have greatly enjoyed my classes.

Being at Albright College has helped me to become more independent and mature. I think it has really helped me grow as a person."

from China
major Business (after the ESL Transition Program) 

"American education including college study holds higher quality compared to that in other countries. I've enjoyed the way of study, and at the same time I have learned a great amount of professional and practical knowledge which will definitely benefit my future career life back in my home country.

Applying through Study Group meant the whole process is quick and it saved me a lot of time! Study Group provides students with a big range of choices to best fit different students and help students improve themselves to the largest extent.

Pacific Lutheran University is an old university established by Lutherans, and it has a religious style and a high quality of education. Also, the beautiful environment in campus is an big appeal to me. PLU is a comparatively small-sized university. Students take class with less than 30 people, which guarantees the quality of class. We have great interaction with professors, and I can easily get access to them if I have any questions.

I also get greatly involved in campus life. There is a great variety of clubs and activities for students to join. Making friends with American students and students from other countries is an incredible thing while I study at an American college, which is a great chance for me to know the cultures of countries apart from mine.

When I graduate I plan to stay in America for an MBA."

from Korea
age 19
major Business Management (after the ESL Transition Program)

"Boston is a traditional and beautiful city. There are many old buildings and wonderful parks. The scenery is very good, and the city is near the beach and several rivers, so people can rest easily. The people are very kind and friendly. Boston is a really good place to live.

Fisher College is a very good school for me. It is located on Beacon Street, near downtown and a park. When I go to the school, I see a very pretty view. At Fisher, all the teachers are nice. If I have questions, they always answer my questions in a friendly way.

I love my two English teachers. At first, I don't know how to make an outline or use citations. However, by studying on the Transition Program, I have improved my English and I can write essays well. It has given me confidence to speak English.

So, if you come to Boston to study English, I recommend you go to Fisher College and if you are not proficient in English, I suggest you study with Study Group."