9 Myths about Best Colleges in the US
There are approximately 150 countries in the world that are worth visiting. Augustine of Hippo said: “The world is a book and those, who do not travel read only one page”, and he was right. One of the best ways to see the world, or at least, one country is the education abroad.
A lot of students, who are looking for qualitative and prosperous higher education, consider the USA as a destination point. There are a lot of top universities in the United States, and they offer grants and scholarships for international students. However, they have certain concerns about such choice because of numerous myths, which circle in the society. Today, we want to dispel beliefs about student’s life in top educational institutions in the US, and colleges in Boston and Massachusetts in particular.
Myth #1. Colleges reject a lot of students to get a higher ranking
Rejection of student does not improve college or university rank, as this factor takes only 1.5% of the general ranking. So educational institutions have to drop 40 % of the applicant to achieve any visible changes in ranking. And such a percentage is actually impossible.
Myth #2. Schools have high rates due to expensive facilities, instead of the quality of education
Colleges and universities are not rewarded for expenses on any non-educational purposes, including sport, food services, climbing equipment, pools etc. We estimate only the qualification of teachers, the quality of courses and academic performance of students. That is the only way to choose best colleges in the US.
Myth #3. You are to decide on your major before entering the college
In the majority of institutions, you are given a year or two before concentration on the major. So students have time to decide what they want to become in future, and that is what general subjects are for. Of course, it is better to understand what field you want to work in to choose the most suitable place. E.g. if technologies are appealing to you, you’d better enter one of the colleges in Massachusetts.
Myth #4. Foreign students do not get any support
A lot of international students are concerned about the language barrier and misunderstanding with their American classmates because of the fact that they are from other countries. In practice, the are a lot of workshops and language classes to help foreigners to adapt. Moreover, the majority of students are ready to help an international student or refer them to people, who can provide help.
Myth #5. Colleges are situated in big and unsafe cities
A lot of American movies are set in big cities, and main characters are usually victims of crime. It is true that crime rate is high in cities with a larger population than in small towns. However, colleges always take care of their students and make all possible for students to feel safe in the campus area. Some of them even organize shuttles from one campus to another.
Myth #9. Campus life is restricted with too many rules
That was true in the 40s and 50s, but not know. You have a right to do the majority of things. As a college student, you can decide where to attend classes, how to spend your free time, etc.
Myth #6. American students party a lot
Another stereotype, which appeared due to American movies is student’s passion for parties. Thus, a lot of foreign students are worried whether they will fit in such way of life if they dislike partying. You definitely will! If you want to visit such events, you are welcomed, if not – it is not a big problem and other student’s attitude to you does not depend on that.
Myth #7. There are no activities for international college students
College administration wants their students to be active and gives them space for self-development. There is a wide range of clubs, which you can join and enjoy hobbies. Moreover, team spirit is important for them, so if you do any sports, you can join a sports team as well.
Myth #8. Campus area is unsafe
It is completely false because the safety of students is the main priority of colleges and universities. All entrances are controlled, and unknown people have no access to the campus.
Myth #6. American students party a lot
Another stereotype, which appeared due to American movies is student’s passion for parties. Thus, a lot of foreign students are worried whether they will fit in such way of life if they dislike partying. You definitely will! If you want to visit such events, you are welcomed, if not – it is not a big problem and other student’s attitude to you does not depend on that.
