The conversation explores the academic journey of an international student navigating the U.S. education system, focusing on college admissions, experiences in liberal arts and engineering, research opportunities, and financial aid. The speaker shares insights on the challenges faced during the admission process, the transition to studying in the U.S., and reflections on their academic choices and future aspirations. In this conversation, Harry shares his journey as an international student navigating the complexities of internships, graduate school applications, and the challenges of transferring colleges. He discusses the importance of maintaining a high GPA, engaging in extracurricular activities, and the financial aspects of applying to universities in the US. Harry also reflects on his social life, cultural adaptation, and the differences between living in New York and the Midwest, emphasizing the importance of community and personal growth throughout his experiences.
Chapters
00:00 Navigating the Admission Process
02:59 The Journey to the U.S. Education System
05:55 Experiences in Liberal Arts and Engineering
08:46 Transitioning to Columbia University
12:07 Research Opportunities and Internships
14:50 Financial Aid and Cost of Education
17:55 Reflections on Academic Choices and Future Aspirations
30:58 Navigating Internships and Graduate School Applications
35:14 Strategies for Successful College Transfers
41:18 International Student Experiences in the US
45:51 Social Life and Cultural Adaptation
52:03 Sports, Fitness, and Lifestyle in America
56:19 Comparing Life in New York and the Midwest
Takeaways
International students often face challenges in college admissions due to financial aid requirements.
The speaker applied to 35 colleges, highlighting the competitive nature of admissions.
Liberal arts colleges offer unique programs that can lead to engineering degrees through partnerships.
Transferring to a prestigious university like Columbia can be a complex process with credit transfers.
Research opportunities are crucial for building a strong academic resume.
Financial aid can significantly reduce the cost of education at top universities.
The speaker's journey reflects a shift from biology to physics and computer science.
Internships and research experiences are essential for gaining practical skills.
The cost of living and education varies significantly between institutions.
Future aspirations include giving back to family and supporting others in their educational journeys. Internships can provide significant benefits beyond just salary.
Graduate school applications require strategic planning and networking.
Maintaining a high GPA is crucial for college transfers.
Extracurricular activities enhance college applications and personal development.
International students face unique challenges in adapting to US culture.
Social life in college can vary greatly between small and large institutions.
Fitness and sports play a significant role in American college life.
Cultural differences impact social interactions and friendships.
Living in a big city like New York presents different challenges than smaller towns.
Embracing the American identity is possible for international students.