When people hear that I used to study in US, they would ask me funny (but cute) questions, like:
“Is it true that the college parties are super wild?”
“Do guy athletes only wear letterman jackets?”
“Is it true that sororities and fraternities are huge in American universities?”
Some people watch too many American movies and TV shows, don’t they?
As someone who has been to the US and spent five years studying there, my reply to their questions is- Yes and No.
American colleges do have some of the things you would see in movies, but they are not as dramatic and ~fabulous~ as depicted on screen.
Let me tell you why.
But first, here’s a little backstory about how I could study in US.
Image source: Unsplash
As a Malaysian from a humble town, my initial plan was to just earn a degree, get a decent job, and live a comfortable life. I do admire America’s amazing variety of landscapes and skyscrapers that I’ve only seen on TV and the Internet, but to be honest, because of my family’s financial constraints, I never thought I could actually study in US.
But that’s all done and dusted now.
I qualified for a scholarship offered by the University of California, Riverside.
“How?” You ask.
I was initially looking for a local university with the help of an education consultant from Eduloco. She actually told me to study in US instead, since I was always curious about life in America. To be honest – I didn’t expect her to remember what I said about the US, but I was touched that she had listened attentively.
She suggested the University of California after researching an institution that best suits my current budget and preference. I even got a scholarship as an international freshman!
Image source: Unsplash
Yes, I am one of the few people who could actually say that.
My study in US experience was an unforgettable one.
The learning experience in UCR was so different from the student life in Malaysia. Discussions in class were always interesting and challenging. But that’s the fun part of it, because we’re always pushing ourselves to learn beyond what’s in the books. Lecturers and professors here are so welcoming and friendly to international students as well. I adapted quickly thanks to how nice everyone was!
I even traveled to places I could only dream of visiting before I studied in the US: Disneyland, San Diego Zoo, Yosemite National Park, and even the dreamy Santa Barbara. It’s a total beach lover’s paradise!
However, when I came back to Malaysia, I noticed that there are many who still don’t understand what it’s truly like to live and study in America.
Here’s the truth about studying in the US.
It is completely okay to take a little longer to complete your degree.
In fact, almost 58% of students take six years or more to graduate.
Various changes may affect a student’s duration of study, such as switching to a new major, or taking a 1-year internship. I personally took five years to complete my degree in Creative Writing as I was working part-time, and that was considered pretty fast!
Image source: Unsplash
Just remember that the duration of study should not signify the quality of one’s degree.
Here’s a little fun fact: University in America is called ‘college’.
While ‘college’ generally means an establishment for technical courses in most countries, it just means ‘university’ in the US. There’s simply no difference. Keep this in mind to avoid confusion when you’re in the US!
When you study in US, you don’t have to decide what to study right away.
You’re supposed to take about five subjects per semester, and you can choose any subject you want, even if it’s irrelevant to your planned major. You can then declare a major from the subjects chosen as the degree you will graduate in. Take it as a ‘trial’ phase, if you may. 😉
I loved having the freedom to take various subjects before I decide on a major, simply because it gives me a better insight into my potential majors before I settle with one. I was actually torn between Psychology and Creative Writing at first. After attending classes for a month, I ended up choosing the latter!
Ngl, my first semester nearly broke my bank.
Image source: Unsplash
Imagine my relief when I found Instagram and Facebook groups dedicated to selling second-hand textbooks. The pre-loved books I found were in good condition, so I didn’t see why you need to spend double the money for a brand-new book!
Do you know that you can change your major during your college years?
In the US, students are given the flexibility to change their course and even the college they’re attending. The best part is, you don’t need to spend extra money for it!
We sometimes discover our passion later than others, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late to take action. Changing your major can actually decrease your stress level and give you a second chance to excel in college. I’ve had friends switching their majors midway, and they performed even better ever since!
So, when in doubt, study in US!
American actress Judy Greer once said, “I really believe waiting tables, and service industry jobs in general, make you a better person.”
Image source: Unsplash
I worked as a part-time waitress for 2 years in a diner near the campus, and needless to say, I was humbled by the experience. I watched waitresses carry four plates of food at once and deliver them with ease. Why go to the gym when you can literally build muscles with food?
Besides, each customer had a different story to share. Listening to them really helped to develop my socializing skills!
I had the opportunity to meet with people from different walks of life; I learned to be patient; and most importantly, I’ve developed a huge respect for the job – it definitely wasn’t easy. Experience it yourself, and you’ll know why!
The mix of good (and bad) treatment from my customers taught me to be a better person. Now I tip the waiters at each restaurant I visit!
I hope you have a better idea of what it’s like to study in the US. With so many great colleges in America, I’m sure you’ll find a major that fits. And even if it doesn’t work out, you can always switch! 😁
For more information about Student Visa application and studying in the US, contact Eduloco at +60 11-2069 9087 or [email protected].
Leaving so soon? Check out these articles first!
Jocelyn Cheng (JC) is an INFP writer seeking to spread inspiration and spark connections through her words. Her dedication to writing has gifted her with an ability to write for multiple platforms (e.g., website, social media, newspaper, magazine, etc) in different fields, namely Education, Travel, and Lifestyle. JC personalizes her works by adding a touch of her own experience into the mix whenever she can to relate to her readers. A self-proclaimed poet and currently a freelance writer, she's working on an untitled poetry book at home while juggling between writing for Eduloco, dancing, and keeping her only plant alive.
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