The US is home to world class universities and offers opportunities for students from around the world for higher studies. Universities in the US attract international students for the facilities they provide to research and other academic endeavors. However, it is not that easy for a student from a different cultural background to mingle with American culture. Let’s see some of the obstacles faced by international students in the US.
Cultural Challenges
The first and the basic issue faced by a foreign student in the US is cultural difference. The classroom atmosphere may not be something what you have experienced in your home country. The classroom etiquette will be entirely different and it may affect your studies. The best way to overcome this obstacle is to find a mentor who may be your professor or an American classmate. They can help you to blend with the new way of academic structure.
Social Challenges
In the US learning is not restricted to the classrooms. Lion share of college experiences happen outside the classrooms. You have to talk and discuss many things with your classmates to go ahead with your academic year. Most of the international students get stuck with difficulties like a language barrier, cultural differences or misunderstanding. Keep in mind that American students are very open to talk and they like to help you. Even you can seek help from University itself as they have clubs, extracurricular activities and organizations which will take you to more people to interact with.
Academic Challenges
The educational system in the US is different than other countries. Professors prefer more to hands-on learning, classroom discussions and group interaction. This style of learning will be difficult for foreign students as they come from an entirely different style of educational system. Professors in universities are aware of this problem and they like to help foreign students. Whenever you face any difficulty, feel free to approach your professors and seek help.
Financial issues
To study in the US is never cheap. For a foreign student it will be a tough target to find tuition fee, food and accommodation expenses and other financial needs that may arise. International students cannot benefit financial aid given by the federal or state government to American students. But you can make use for awards, scholarships or grants if you have a good track record of performance before and after US studies. There are many scholarships reserved for brilliant international students in the US.
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