The American education structure
Internships
As part of your degree in the United States, you may have to take an internship - where you can gain valuable work experience. This is usually unpaid, and you get credits toward your degree by completing it. Many students stay over in the US over the ...
Summer school
There is an opportunity for students to take courses during the summer months. There are various reasons why one may, in some cases want/have to do this: To get your bachelor’s degree at a faster pace. Re-taking a course you may not have done well ...
Placement testing
Some schools will require you to take a placement test in math and English before you go to your school or when you arrive. These tests will help to determine which English and math level you are at so that your academic advisor can place you at the ...
Orientation
Orientation is usually a mandatory introduction to college life in the United States at your school. All freshmen must participate and it's a great way to get to know the school and the other freshmen. During the introduction, you will learn the ins ...
Grade point averages (GPA)
In the U.S. there are strict requirements on class attendance at the university/college level. Almost all courses are compulsory in terms of attendance, unless you have an approved excuse from your coach, a doctor, etc. Teachers use a continuous ...
Courses and credits
Instead of a single class, a student usually enrolls in 4 or 5 subjects (classes) each semester/term in the USA, and the bachelor’s degree will normally take 4 years to complete. Some students are capable of graduating in less time by taking extra ...
Academic advising
When you get to school you will be assigned an academic advisor to help you with course selection and planning of your training. Some schools may assign you one before and have you meet them online. Often, there are rules for how often new students ...
American college structure
You are going to be admitted to a university and accepted for general admission, with the option to study any of the available subjects. The American educational structure is designed so that students will have a broad general knowledge base and then ...
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Tips to communicate with coaches
Things to consider before emailing coaches Coaches are usually called Coach "Surname". E.g., if coach John Smith has been in touch, you start with "Coach Smith" at the beginning of your phone conversations and emails. You should also call them by ...
Flights
Many students get excited once they have been admitted and want to book their flight. Please do not book your flight until you have your visa. Be aware there is an earliest entry date on the I-20, you cannot enter the US before this date. Please bear ...
Mobile phones
Many people choose to use Mint Mobile. They offer a number of subscriptions with different amounts of mobile data so you can customise it to your needs. Mint Mobile also offer eSims for compatible phones so you can activate the SIM remotely without ...
Physical preparation and pre-season
We cannot stress enough the difference in fitness levels expected in the US from what you experience at home. Many athletes massively underestimate the levels of fitness and stamina required at the college level and almost all athletes say they’ve ...
Acceptance
When you are accepted to your school, if you have been awarded any academic money, this will likely be shown on your acceptance letter. Be aware that academic money and athletic money are separate. Please do not panic if the amount shown on your ...