Studying as a Bhutanese student in the USA?

I'm a high school student from Bhutan considering applying to colleges in the USA. How is the experience for Bhutanese students in terms of culture, academics, and community support? Are any Bhutanese alumni willing to share their stories or tips?

From an academic standpoint, U.S. colleges offer a wide variety of courses, degrees, and fields of study. Part of what makes studying in the U.S. unique is the emphasis on a liberal arts education, where students are encouraged to explore multiple fields of interest outside of their major. This broad-based approach to education helps students to develop a well-rounded set of skills and knowledge. As a Bhutanese student, you might enjoy this flexibility and the opportunity to discover new areas of interest.

Culturally, studying in the U.S. can be a significant shift from Bhutan. The U.S. is a diverse country with many unique cultures and traditions. Each university or college will also have its own distinct culture, which can be influenced by its location, history, student body, etc. It's important to research each potential school to understand what life on campus might be like.

As for community support, many U.S. colleges have organizations and support services to help international students adjust to life in the U.S. These resources could include international student offices, cultural clubs, language assistance programs, and other social events designed to promote community. While the presence of a Bhutanese student association would vary by the university (since Bhutan is a small country), you might find cultural groups for South Asian or Himalayan students. If not, you can also look into forming your own! It will provide an excellent platform for you to share your culture and traditions with the campus community.

Although I'm not a Bhutanese alumni, I would also recommend contacting your potential schools' admissions offices. They may connect you with current students or alumni from Bhutan who can provide a more personalized perspective. Lastly, keep in mind that each student's college experience is unique, so it's important to choose a college that fits your personal and academic goals. It's an exciting journey, so embrace it and make the most of it!