Last August 11, 2015, MITIS students visited the Embassy of the United States of America, along Roxas Boulevard in Manila, to know more about college programs and opportunities that the EducationUSA offers and provides to those deserving students. Along with other students from schools such as Southville International School, Muntinlupa Science High School, Xavier School, MITIS students learned how to choose the perfect degree program and the perfect university that will suit their skills and interests, not only as a student but also as a person—something that can develop them holistically.
EducationUSA is an organization and a network of more than 400 advising centers around the world recognized and supported by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs at the U.S. Department of State. In addition, it provides students and parents the official, unbiased, and comprehensive information on how to apply and study on an accredited U.S. university or college through their “Your 5 Steps to U.S. Study” guide.
During the seminar, it was noted that studying in the US is a one-of-a-kind experience since the country is the leading higher education provider for students around the globe. The knowledge and skills international students develop in US universities prepare them to become the world’s next active and collaborative leaders who can work across borders, nations, cultures, and languages to solve the problems that the world faces today and in the future.
There were guest speakers in the event: Filipino college students who are studying in the U.S. with the help of the EducationUSA. They shared their experiences on how to survive college life. Some asked about surviving from homesickness while others asked about coping with culture shock. Based on their personal experiences, they said that to survive from homesickness, one must keep busy. And although culture shock is inevitable, your own body will adapt to it in no time.
Other speakers talked about their experience applying to different universities in the U.S. According to them, applying abroad is a no joke. Someone must possess determination, optimism, and confidence in his / her body of work to be able to reach his / her goal. They also shared advice to aspiring high school students. First, they must pick the best college that can provide their skills and interests; don’t base it on a university’s name and fame. Second, apply for multiple colleges for back-up. The speakers applied to 7 – 8 colleges in the USA, and after, they just chose where to go. Third, they also noted the importance of joining clubs and extra-curricular activities that will help you hone your talents and socialize with people from different nations.
The event isn’t just all about knowing the procedures of studying in the U.S. but is also about making new friends. The organizers assigned seating arrangements based on the coasts in the U.S.—South, West, Midwest, and. They also had ice-breakers for students to be more energized to participate in the discussion. After the event, they gave out different books and items that will guide and inform the participants on different bodies of knowledge such as Science, Engineering, History, and Music. MIT students made friends with other students and participants and proved that they are not just academic achievers but active and collaborative citizens as well.
