Studying in the US: Help Needed

Really starting to feel stressed about the prospect of studying in the US for college. What are some essential first steps I should take in the process to make it less overwhelming?

The first steps in the process can indeed be challenging, so your feelings are completely valid. To start, it helps to break down your process into more manageable tasks.

First, do some research on the American education system to familiarize yourself with it. Understand how colleges are structured, the meaning of terms like "majors" and "minors", and the general academic culture.

Next, think carefully about what you want out of your college experience. What major are you interested in? What size of a college would you prefer? Urban, suburban or rural? What is your ideal weather? This will help narrow down a list of potential colleges to apply to. Plenty of online resources, like CollegeVine, can help guide you in this step.

Third, prepare for and take necessary standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT. Make sure to give yourself enough time to study and possibly retake the exams if necessary. Starting this early not only boosts your score potential but also reduces stress down the line.

Another crucial step is understanding the financial aspect. Check out the net price calculators on college websites to get a rough idea about the cost. Learn about scholarships and financial aid options for international students from reliable sources.

Identify your recommenders early and communicate with them about what you hope they can highlight in their recommendation letters.

Lastly, start thinking about your college essays. While the specific questions might not be available until later, reflecting on your experiences and how they shaped you is a good starting point.

Remember that it’s a process and taking it one step at a time can make it less overwhelming. Reach out to college counselors or use resources like CollegeVine for guidance throughout the process. Good luck!