The university fairs were only one part of EducationUSA’s South Asia Tour, which brought 16 U.S. institutions to Pakistan this February. Beyond large-scale events, the tour was designed to create more meaningful, on-the-ground engagement — through school visits, counselor networking, and shared cultural experiences.
Inside classrooms and campuses
Well-planned visits to local schools and universities gave visiting representatives the opportunity to highlight the many higher education opportunities available in the United States, while also showcasing the talent and drive of Pakistani students. These engagements allowed representatives to experience institutions firsthand and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s academic landscape.
“The school and university visits were a great chance for us to meet prospective applicants in a more intimate setting,” said Paul Crimi from Stony Brook University. “Overall, the entire tour really exceeded expectations. Great job, Team EducationUSA!”
In total, the group visited 14 high schools and 8 universities across the three cities.
Building bridges
A key highlight of the tour was the series of networking teas hosted in each city, where school counselors, university officials, and U.S. representatives came together in an informal yet highly productive setting. These sessions encouraged open dialogue, relationship-building, and the exchange of best practices in student advising.
“Through dynamic discussions during the event, I gained an entirely new perspective on admissions in the United States,” said Ahsan Ali from Beaconhouse College Programme’s Gulberg campus in Lahore. “It was also refreshing to connect with other counselors.”
U.S. Embassy and Consulate staff also participated in these events, where conversations continued well into the evening.
Experiencing Pakistan
Every great tour needs a balance of work and play — and Team EducationUSA delivered just that. Beyond formal programming, visiting delegates had the chance to experience the country firsthand.
In Karachi, representatives explored the city through a guided bus tour, taking in its energy, scale, and coastal landscape.
In Lahore, the group visited the historic Lahore Fort on a guided night tour, where centuries-old architecture and stories offered a powerful introduction to the Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage.
“There was a great balance of structured programming, fun activities, and free time,” said Don Grinager from Augustana University. “We had ample time to mix and mingle and really strengthen connections.”
By the end of the tour, many representatives left not just with a stronger understanding of Pakistan’s academic sphere, but with a more personal connection to the country itself — one that will continue to shape how they engage with Pakistani students in the years ahead.
