Dmitry is a higher education professional who chose to pursue a bachelor’s degree in the United States after graduating from high school and taking a gap year. He applied to eight universities and received acceptance letters from half of them. His expertise also benefited his brother, whom he assisted in gaining admission to one of the most prestigious universities in the United States.
In this article, Dmitry shares with Scholarsinfodesk the real-life experience of studying in the USA, exploring the educational system, learning approaches, and career opportunities that await graduates. His insights offer valuable guidance for prospective international students considering schooling in America.
Inspiration to Study in the USA & Overcoming Language Barriers
In 2013, after completing my education at a Moscow-based secondary school known for its English proficiency, I had the opportunity to participate in a student exchange program with Buckingham Browns and Nichols High School in Cambridge, Massachusetts. During my 10th grade, I stayed with an American family as part of the cultural exchange, and this experience allowed me to explore Boston’s landmarks and spend time in New York.
This journey was instrumental in shaping my aspiration to pursue further education in the USA. Later, I attended a two-month summer program at Harvard, which prepared me for college life by focusing on skills essential for academic success.
Challenges in the new environment
Initially, the transition was tough. Immersed in a new language and culture, I often felt overwhelmed. However, my mother’s support kept me going, teaching me that persistence is key to success in life especially when pursuing an international education.
Selecting Schools in the US & Preparing for Application
During my junior year, I decided to take a gap year to prepare for college applications to the U.S. This decision gave me ample time to fully engage with the admissions process, which is far more complex than it is in my home country.
According to a report from Opendoors 2023, international student enrollment at colleges or universities during the 2022/2023 academic year increased by 14% to 298,523, building on the 80% increase in the prior year with 53% coming from countries like China and India. This makes the U.S. a popular destination for higher education but also means serious competition for admission placement.
My underground findings taught me that standardized tests will be required in my admission process. So, I prepared for standardized tests, including the TOEFL and SAT, by engaging in one-on-one sessions with a native English speaker and self-study using official preparation materials.
Tip for School Selection
Maintaining open communication with university admissions offices is crucial to ensure you understand every detail. This can often be the difference between a successful and failed application.
Challenge of Standardized Test
One of the hardest parts of the process was scoring well on the SAT. The average SAT score for international students in the U.S. is around 1050–1250, so I knew I had to exceed that to stand out. Taking a gap year allowed me to focus on improving my score. Ultimately, I applied to eight universities, targeting business programs, and received offers from institutions such as the University of New Hampshire, Bentley University, and the University of Vermont.
Tip to Increase Admission Chance
Choose universities not only based on overall rankings but also program-specific rankings. It’s equally important to apply to backup schools to ensure you have a strong plan in place.
The Decision & Campus Life in New Hampshire
I selected the University of New Hampshire, a public institution known for its stunning beauty, especially in the winter months. The scenic campus offers a unique rural American experience, which is a stark contrast to cities like New York. This setting also provided an affordable education, which was critical for managing expenses as an international student.
The average tuition cost for international students in U.S. public universities ranges from $25,000–$45,000 per year, depending on the institution and location. Meanwhile, living expenses can add another $10,000–$15,000 annually. By choosing a countryside university, I was able to reduce my living costs compared to larger metropolitan areas like New York or Los Angeles, where living expenses can be up to 50% higher.
When I arrived a week early to settle into the dorms, the university hosted an orientation week specifically for international students. They helped with everything from opening bank accounts to obtaining SIM cards and adjusting to immigration regulations. This support system was invaluable in making the transition smoother.
Tip to Quick Settling
Use orientation week to sort out practical tasks, such as setting up a bank account and buying necessities. It helps reduce stress when classes begin.
Academic Life: A Transformative Journey
My academic journey in the Finance and International Business Economics program was deeply transformative. The instructors brought a wealth of knowledge from their careers in finance, entrepreneurship, and marketing, blending theory with real-world applications. One memorable assignment involved analyzing the Super Bowl commercials as part of a marketing class, which helped us understand the high-stakes world of advertising.
Tip for Success in American Universities
U.S. education focuses on applying concepts to real-world scenarios. Engage actively in practical tasks and case studies to develop critical thinking skills. Expect a holistic approach to academics, with homework, projects, and group work contributing to your final grade. Regular participation is crucial for success.
The most challenging courses were Financial and Managerial Accounting, both of which tested my resilience. These rigorous courses, however, proved beneficial, as many graduates from our business school secured positions at premier financial firms such as PWC and EY.
Balancing Work & Study
While studying, I worked part-time at a campus coffee shop, starting as a barista and eventually becoming a general supervisor. This experience allowed me to gain essential business skills and manage my finances.
According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, international students who engage in on-campus employment are 40% more likely to gain employment after graduation, as it provides them with valuable work experience and networking opportunities.
Tip for Balancing Work & Study
If you need to work while studying, on-campus jobs are a great way to balance your academic commitments while earning money. These jobs also offer networking opportunities within the university.
Additionally, I pursued a teaching assistant position in business statistics, which enhanced my academic experience. Securing such a role required a solid academic record, fluency in English, and dedication. These experiences laid the foundation for my post-university career in finance.
Transition to the Professional World
Upon graduation, I started working in finance at the Four Seasons Hotel in Philadelphia, which offered an exciting new challenge. The transition from a university setting to a busy metropolitan work environment was a huge shift, but it was also immensely rewarding.
Moreover, many of my peers immediately secured jobs within their fields of study or pursued further education with prestigious scholarships like the Harry S. Truman Scholarship, which offers generous tuition coverage.
Tip for Smooth Transitioning
Consider internships or part-time jobs during your studies, as these roles provide crucial work experience that can be leveraged in job applications post-graduation.
Supporting Others in Their Journey
Inspired by my experience, I helped younger students in my community navigate the U.S. admissions process. Two years after my graduation, I supported several students with document preparation, selecting universities, and crafting motivational letters. Helping others succeed brought me immense satisfaction.
Dmitry’s Advice for Aspiring Students
- Don’t be afraid to reach out: communicate directly with universities, seek advice from counselors, and attend webinars or workshops.
- Be strategic with your applications: ensure you have a balanced list of schools, from dream schools to backups.
- Start preparing early: take your time with standardized tests and essays. Use your gap year wisely if you take one.
Concluding Thoughts
Dmitry’s academic journey culminated in May 2023, when he graduated from the University of New Hampshire. Since then, he has worked with LinguaTrip, helping students craft compelling admissions strategies, write standout applications, and select the universities that best align with their aspirations.
His experience exemplifies the resilience, dedication, and careful planning needed to succeed as an international student in the United States. Prospective students can look to Dmitry’s story as a roadmap for achieving their educational goals abroad.
With these tips and strategies, international students can better prepare themselves for a smooth, successful transition to life and education in the United States.
