9 things you need to know about studying in the US

2. You can create your own unique degree with majors and minors

First, one of the things students love most about studying in the United States is the ability to personalize their degrees. Students can choose one or two majors to focus on.

Second, you can create your own unique university experience by adding a minor to your degree. So, if you are majoring in business, for example, you can choose a minor in another subject, such as psychology or music. Finally, you can focus your major on concentrations that add value to your degree by helping you develop skills in certain areas. For example, Pace University's Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program offers 15 different specializations from public accounting to sports marketing.

3. it's okay not to know
right away what you want to study

Many universities in the U.S. require students to complete a "general education" component of their bachelor's degree. As part of the general education program, students build a foundation of knowledge in subjects that include mathematics, science, history, and art. General education usually takes about 1.5 years (or 3 semesters). It is during this time that students may change the field in which they would like to specialize. Approximately 20 to 50% of students are also "undecided" as to what degree they will pursue.

4. You are more likely to have time to travel and visit friends and family

Students studying in the United States like the country's education system in part because of its tight schedule with built-in breaks. The average semester lasts 15 weeks, which means that in a calendar of two semesters, students are only in class for a little more than six months. Summer breaks, which usually last from May through August, give students the opportunity to go home to see friends and family, visit U.S. attractions, or even take part in internships to gain professional experience.

5. The weather in the country is varied

It goes without saying, but the U.S. is big - it's the 4th largest country in the world by land area. Given its size, it's perhaps not surprising that the U.S. has 10 different climate zones

6. Students can enhance their university experience by joining clubs

Many international students studying in the United States get the most out of their U.S. college experience by joining student clubs on campus. It’s a great way to make friendships that will last a lifetime.

7. Sports are huge

The larger U.S. universities often have impressive sports and athletics traditions. Take the University of Connecticut, for instance, whose women's basketball team, the Huskies, is often ranked in the top 10 in the United States and has won 11 national championships. American College football is also hugely popular. Some campuses have stadiums that host 60,000 fans!

8. Universities in the U.S. encourage student participation

Teaching in the U.S., known as the "Socratic Seminar," is often a collaborative experience between professors and students. Unlike lectures, in which the professor does most of the talking, classes at U.S. universities emphasize dialogue.

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