WHY STUDY IN THE US AND CANADA: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE FOR KENYAN HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES

 

 

Following the release of the K.C.S.E results, you are probably pondering over what step to take next. What course do you want to pursue? More importantly, where do you want to study? Have you considered pursuing your undergraduate studies in the US or Canada? If so, then here are more reasons for you to begin that journey. If not, then perhaps this may shed some light on how beneficial it would be to study in these countries. 

Liberal Arts and Science Education

Universities in the US and some Canadian ones present a wide range of courses, some of which may not be available, particularly at undergraduate level, in your country. For instance, in the United States, a lot of universities and colleges have adopted the liberal arts system of education which allows you to take courses in the natural sciences, social sciences, arts and humanities as you work towards fulfilling the requirements for your degree. This gives you the chance to explore a wide range of disciplines, and in the process, develop new learning interests. You are also able to break from traditional courses as well as typical classroom work. 

One thing to note is that in most liberal arts colleges, you will have the leeway to try out different courses during your first year before settling on a major. Therefore, if you are undecided about what you would like to pursue, this would be a great opportunity for you to pick and choose what interests you, even remotely, before making up your mind. Moreover, there are multiple interdisciplinary courses you can pursue in the case that your interests span across different fields. Simply put, you steer your education in the direction you would like. If this feels overwhelming you can also reach out to experts like www.afexhub.co.ke to guide you in making your decision.

Experiential Learning

On top of that, education in the US and Canada is experiential and more practical than theoretical. These institutions have state of the art facilities and abundant resources that enable you to have a broad and deep learning experience.

Although your focus currently is starting out on your undergraduate studies, it is important to consider the implications it may have on your goals after. If you are keen on undertaking your post-graduate ie Masters abroad, studying in the US or Canada for your first degree will be extremely advantageous. The rigor in graduate school is incomparable to that of undergraduate education. However, the intensity of post-secondary education in the US and Canada reduces the gap and significantly eases the transition to graduate school. 

Scholarships

A good number of universities in the United States have declared that admissions to their institution are need-blind. This simply means that your ability, or lack thereof, to cater for your education is not considered when deciding whether to offer you a place in the program you have applied for. On the other hand, a lot of other universities and colleges pledge that finances should not stand in the way of your education and offer to meet 100% demonstrated need. 

Currently there are multiple scholarships available for international students to study in Canada  that can cover a significant amount of your tuition. Most of these are offered by the universities themselves, like the Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow at University of British Columbia and the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program at University of Toronto, both of which cover your full tuition and expenses for the four years. 

Personal Growth

By immersing yourself in new environments, you get to experience new cultures, traditions as well as perspectives. This contributes immensely to expanding your mental capacity and shaping your worldview. Additionally, moving out of your home country and settling into another draws you out of your comfort zone, catalyzing a lot of growth.

As an international student, you will be required to seek communities that align with your values and although this can be challenging, you learn a lot about yourself and others too. You learn to be independent whilst appreciating the value that comes with teamwork and collaboration. 

Canada and the United States are among countries with the highest number of international students. This means that other than learning about the cultures and people in these host countries, you will also have the chance to interact with scholars from many different places around the world. Indirectly, that is through the stories and practices shared, you will get to experience the world from the comfort of your learning institution. You will also gain a global perspective, become more knowledgeable and adaptable. 

Career opportunities

The exposure you gain from studying abroad sets you apart from your peers in the same industry as yourself back at home. You emerge uniquely equipped with skills employers are keen to hone: this gives you an edge. It is also a lot easier to land job opportunities in the US and Canada during and after you complete your undergraduate studies. A lot of colleges and universities, through partnerships with multiple firms, companies and organizations, post their students or avail internship opportunities for them in these spaces. A good example is the CO-OP program offered in most universities in Canada through which you can get a term of work placement on a post related to your academics. This allows you to build on your experience early on in the career path you choose. Therefore, whether you’re looking to settle abroad or come back home, your path will be better streamlined towards achieving your career goals. 

Studying (and working) also significantly increases your chances of getting permanent residence in these countries.

Takeaways

Studying abroad avails numerous opportunities for personal, intellectual and career-related growth. You get to explore different interests, learn in and outside the classroom, develop a global perspective and kick-start your career well-equipped. Ultimately, all of these play a  huge role in molding global citizens, change-makers and movers and shakers. 

So, have you made up your mind yet?

For more information on studying in the US and Canada, you can reach out to us via email: info@afexhub.co.ke or drop by our office at Westcom Point Building (8th floor) on Mahiga Mairu Avenue, Westands, Nairobi. You can also call or text us on +254 704 904500.