During the first half of July, over 270 students admitted to U.S. universities attended EducationUSA’s pre-departure orientations (PDOs) in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi. These engaging sessions aimed to arm participants with necessary information to enable a smooth transition to a new academic and cultural environment.
EducationUSA hosts these events every year for students about to commence their Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD programs of study at colleges and universities across the United States. These PDOs also serve as a celebration of the accomplishments that brought students to this moment.
According to the Institute of International Education’s 2024 Open Doors Report, nearly 11,000 Pakistanis were enrolled at U.S. institutions last year – an all-time high and an 8.1 percent increase from the previous year.
“Pakistan is home to thousands of alumni of U.S. colleges and universities,” said U.S. Embassy Islamabad Minister Counselor for Public Diplomacy Lisa Swenarski. “We are extremely proud to support students through EducationUSA’s advising services, which make it possible for smart and motivated Pakistani students to have life-changing educational experiences in the United States, enrich our campuses and culture, and return home to become the future leaders of their country.”
Building confidence and connection
At the heart of the events were interactive activities designed to help students envision their new journeys abroad. In Islamabad, participants enjoyed a lively map activity, pinning their future universities across the United States, followed by small-group discussions with visa officers and EducationUSA alumni on academic life and cultural adjustment. Meanwhile, in Karachi and Lahore, students and parents took part in engaging breakout sessions featuring U.S. Consulate representatives and alumni offering firsthand advice.
Lighter moments – including a networking activity titled “Human Bingo”, state-based discussions, and hearty conversations over tea – helped build a sense of confidence and camaraderie before departure.
“We are committed to supporting and encouraging Pakistani students to realize their dream of higher education in the United States,” said USEFP Executive Director Dr. Peter K. Moran. “A U.S. education has the power to change the trajectory of a student’s life. Our EducationUSA advisers, most U.S. graduates themselves, help students prepare for their journeys with practical tools that will make their endeavors successful.”
The PDOs closed not just with farewells, but with excitement – proof that every flight to the United States begins with shared purpose, preparation, and promise.
