Thinking about a Masters or Second degree soon and trying to decide whether the United States is a good choice? Right. Let’s get right to it then. Here are three top reasons why I chose the US over other countries to get a Masters.
Class Diversity
One of the best things about going to school in the US is the diversity you can expect from most schools. I had classmates from over 20 countries during my Masters. Without them I doubt I would be the global minded person I am today. I have since visited at least 3 of them in their different countries (probably have done more if not for my beloved Nigerian passport and its restrictions). This experience has helped me in the corporate world where I am working with people from all over the world. US schools do a fantastic job of creating an environment where cultures are celebrated.
Scholarships
Almost every Master’s program in the US offers some type of scholarship. Yes even Harvard. For international students possibly coming from Nigeria, these go a long way seeing the way the dollar is to the Naira these days. Most schools are funded by Alumni donations and other subsidies that provide for students in need, yes even international students. I was a recipient of one such scholarship and I know many international students who enjoyed the same benefit. While researching schools in other countries, I didn’t find this to be the case as much as it was in the US. Every school I applied to in the US gave me a scholarship and I promise it wasn’t because I had the best grades. Others outside the US, zilch.
Global Brand
US schools and degrees are widely recognized around the world. Almost everyone has heard of Harvard University of course but let’s say that is a school way beyond our humble aspirations. How about the University of California, University of Texas, Florida State University? With high academic standards and rigorous requirements, US schools have become the bastion for global academic excellence. Just a quick look at 2019 Best Schools in the World shows that 14 out of the top 20 universities are in the United States. Getting a degree here means you are getting a degree which will be globally recognized anywhere in the world.
These are just some of the reasons why I would pick the US over any other country. Why did you choose the country you chose to go to school in?