This summer, EducationUSA received a grant from the U.S. Embassy in Pakistan to send four talented high school students to the EducationUSA Academy, a pre-college academic enrichment program. The academy offers international students the chance to partake in college-level writing workshops, campus visits, preparatory undergraduate classes, and cultural activities. Students gain an insider’s perspective on higher education in the United States while getting the chance to experience campus life.
Three students went to Boston University (BU) and one to Temple University. All four described this experience as “life changing”.
Here’s more about their journeys, in their own words:
Musa Salahud Din
“At Temple University, I met students from all across the world. We were a very interesting group of teens hailing from eight different countries and I had the opportunity to learn about various cultures. We taught each other words in our languages and how to make our favorite childhood snacks. The students from Hong Kong even gave me a name in Cantonese: Si Lok Ming!
It was so much fun interacting with my professor and classmates in a challenging college-level classroom. We discussed world affairs, international economics, and politics. One weekend, we took a bus to New York City, and that was definitely another highlight of the trip. Cannot wait to take back all that I’ve learned!”
Shafaq Binte Yousuf
“At BU, our group consisted of students from more than 20 countries. I made good friends from Indonesia and Chile and we thoroughly discussed the importance of diversity in business and education. The closing ceremony was emotional as we all had made life-long bonds through the EducationUSA Academy. Overall, it was an invaluable experience and one I will remember for the rest of my life.”
Muhammad Ahmed Ali
“The three weeks I spent at BU were enjoyable and enlightening. Connecting with people from various backgrounds, taking classes with full professors, and doing every task independently boosted my confidence generally. I made priceless memories while exploring Boston with my fellows. We also focused on college applications and I feel way more confident applying to the United States. The program’s innovation and entrepreneurship was amazing. What stood out for me was team planning and pitching our startup concepts. Such out-of-the-box activities opened my mind. I am now more motivated than ever to pursue my undergrad from USA and learn from the very best.”
Ariba Ashraf
“We were housed in Warren Towers, right next to a park, and my classmates and I had a great time exploring the area and the city together. We discussed important issues, played in the rain together, and even jumped into a fountain. The Boston Public Library was definitely a highlight. Over all, the trip has had a lasting impact – and I couldn’t have asked for more!”
