Your US Application: Thorough research leads to best-fit university

For Indian students aspiring to study in the United States, the journey is both exciting and challenging.

- Aditi Lele

With over 4,000 accredited US universities offering a diverse range of programs, practical training opportunities, and campus life activities, students have a multitude of options to choose from. However, with such great choice comes the responsibility to conduct thorough research, ask the right questions, and make informed decisions.

This article explores why conducting authentic research is crucial for students, helping them make decisions that align with their academic and personal goals.

First step

Students should first reflect on why they want to pursue higher studies, and their reasons for choosing the US. Introspection is a crucial step; it requires students to think deeply about their career goals, academic preparation, financial investment, and other important factors. Too often, students choose a program because they believe it will lead to better career prospects without considering whether the program aligns with their true interests and skills.

Students should ask themselves questions like: What are my long-term career goals? Am I academically prepared for this program? Is this the right financial investment for me and my family? Will I achieve the expected return on this investment, not only in terms of salary but also in terms of personal and professional growth? By beginning with these questions, students can ensure that their decision to study in the United States is based on deep understanding of their own goals and motivations, rather than on external influences or fleeting trends.

The EducationUSA website offers a worksheet that students can use to reflect on questions that they should ask themselves before beginning the application process. (https://educationusa.state.gov/your-5-steps-us-study/research-your-options/undergraduate/define-your-priorities-us)

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