The United States has a lot to offer international students, including one of the most esteemed and highly regarded higher education systems in the world, as well as rich culture, a rich history, and an extremely culturally diverse population.
The admission rate of American universities can range from 4.8% to 92.9%, and the rivalry for financial help is growing every year. However, you will need to create a great profile for yourself to increase your chances of admission to your ideal US institution and make you stand out from the competition.
In this blog, we will be discussing the importance of profile building and the various factors responsible for creating an effective profile.
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Top 5 Reasons to Study in USA
The majority of the world's international students are enrolled in schools in the USA. In addition to that, 22 of the top 100 universities worldwide, according to the QS World University Ranking 2022, are American. Below are a few reasons why students wish to study in the US:
- Academic Excellence: The United States is home to some of the best universities in the world, constantly placing high in global university rankings. US universities are also renowned for having educational excellence, adhering to strict procedures to ensure quality, and being well-supported so they can provide their students with a top-notch education.
- Flexible Courses: There are a wide variety of courses and programs available in American universities and colleges. You are allowed to choose the course structure in addition to the course's content.
- Educational Aid: American colleges regularly hold orientation programs, workshops, and training to provide support to international students. There is also a myriad of financial assistance in USA for foreign students.
- Post Study Work Opportunities: Additionally, international students may be eligible for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training, which enables them to continue working for 12 months in the sector of their choice.
- Work Experience Benefits: You are a stronger candidate for your field if you have job experience in the US in addition to the value that a degree from a US university brings to your credentials.
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What is Profile Building?
At its most basic level, profile building is the process of creating projects and talents that can be highlighted on your CV.
To establish your profile, you must acquire skills and engage in activities that will help you achieve your professional and academic objectives while being guided by reputable academicians and business leaders. Particularly when it comes to the schools with considerable competition, there is a method that is more organized, logical, and grounded in science for improving your odds, i.e, ‘Profile Building’.
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Why is Profile Building Necessary?
Creating a dossier or portfolio that can paint a narrative of your interests is the goal of establishing your profile. Building your profile involves engaging in any activity that promotes your knowledge, abilities, successes, and involvement in furthering your professional or academic objectives.
Building a good and strong profile helps in:
- Enhancing your resume or CV.
- Provides you with in-depth insight about themes or topics you are intrigued by.
- Aids in the acquisition of skills through projects.
- Boosts your prospects of being accepted to the institution of your choice.
- Enhances your self-assurance when facing interviews.
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How to Create a Strong Profile to Study in USA?
In addition to the accomplishments and performance highlights on the CV, it's equally important to comprehend, and acquire the skills necessary to construct and present the profile. Your essays and Statement of Purpose are equally crucial to the Profile. Below we have highlighted the most important elements of your profile:
1. Academic Transcripts
The academic record is the key component of a solid profile. The initial things that draw the admissions committee's attention are likely to be your SAT, ACT, GMAT, GRE, IELTS, and TOEFL scores as well as your academic performance. Therefore, you should make thorough preparation for all of your exams and achieving a good grade a priority.
2. Extracurricular Activities
Universities in the United States place a strong focus on student’s overall development, rather than just their academic performance. Consequently, making progress on your list of extracurricular activities is essential.
You might accomplish this in a few different ways too:
- Take Online Courses: Either follow your interest or enroll in an online or offline course. You might enroll in online credential programs that appeal to you.
- Participate in Inter-School Competitions: Entering competitions held by your school is another excellent way to display your extracurricular talents.
- Take Offline Courses: If you want to pursue another pastime, start taking online courses.
3. Internships
Since work experience demonstrates the qualities of responsibility, time management, and teamwork, it provides you with an advantage over other applicants. Additionally, it assists you in later receiving better and job opportunities and internships in USA. You may have a better chance of getting a LOR from your employer if you complete an internship.
Things to remember before you apply for internships:
- Remember to intern at a space you are comfortable in but one that also challenges you.
- It will be beneficial if you intern at a job that relates to your field of study. In this way, you will be less likely to lose interest in the position, more likely to get hands-on practice, and most importantly, help you gauge your interest in the field itself.
- Exhibiting sincere and disciplined behavior and establishing a good rapport with your co-worker, managers, and the boss will be a plus-point.
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4. Voluntary Work
Along with improving your college application, volunteering with an NGO can be incredibly beneficial for your personal development. Universities in the United States value students who participate in volunteer work, which may provide you with an advantage.
Letters Of Recommendation
Universities in the U.S. usually require around three letter of recommendations (LOR) along with your college application. Your LORs would comprise of the professors teaching the subject you are interested in, past employers or even the Dean/Principal of your school. Make sure the LORs describe you and your skills/work in a positive tone and adhere to the guidelines of the university.
Statement of Purpose
Here, you must go into great detail about your interest in the program you are applying for, your decision to choose it, how it will benefit your career, and your decision to attend that particular university. Remember to comment on your academic successes and any initiatives you may have undertaken that are linked to the course for which you applied. A statement of purpose highlights your commitment, enthusiasm, and motivation for taking the next step.
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High school is the ideal time to start developing your profile, but even if you wait until later, it's still better than never. So long as you maintain your positive outlook, only the finest things will come your way. And even if you are late, there's no need to worry, talk to our experts if you need any advice or help, and sign up for Yocket Premium right away!
