Last updated 1 year ago
Pursuing a bachelor’s degree or other level of higher education abroad can be intimidating. Yet, it can also be an incredibly rewarding experience that offers plenty of financial and vocational benefits.
If you are an international student interested in attending a college in the United States, then these tips may be helpful for you to get the most out of your time in America as you prepare yourself for the transition.
1. Tap into University Language Services—Adapting to an American college will be more difficult for students whose native language is not English. There are, however, resources available to those looking to improve their English speaking skills. Speak with your college’s counseling staff about personal tutoring and considering taking English classes to develop experience with reading, writing, and grammar.
2. Learn about Local Finance Structures—Research the basics of securing an American bank account and how payment, credit, and loan structures function in relation to your university’s tuition policy, any financial aid you might be receiving, and your day-to-day expenses.
3. Organize Your Paperwork—Be sure you have all of the necessary documentation in order. Keep your student visa, work visa, insurance paperwork, travel itinerary, and all other travel documents in a safe, easily accessible place.
4. Familiarize Yourself with Your Location—Though you may not be able to travel to your college town to get a preview of your campus, most universities have college tours or photo albums available online. It’s also a good idea to study maps of the surrounding area, especially if you are attending a college in an urban area, like here in the Bronx or Westchester, New York.
5. Learn from Your Peers— Keep in mind that socialization and networking is the key to quick assimilation. Talk to other international students who have pursued education in the US and access your college’s online network of international alumni. And, if you are provided with the names of your future roommate(s) ahead of time, don’t be afraid to reach out and introduce yourself before you leave.
If you are an international student preparing for your mo
ve to
Monroe College’s Bronx or Winchester campuses, then take a look at
our online page for International Students. You can also
speak directly to one of our staff members or college counselors for more tips on how to prepare for your transition. For an amazing, horizon-expanding experience as you attain your bachelor’s degree, consider attending Monroe College!
Last updated 1 year ago
Are you a college student who’s nervous about your upcoming exam or standardized test?
In this video, you’ll hear from psychologist Dr. Cynthia Green on how to prep for an exam. More specifically, you’ll learn stress-relief techniques, test-taking strategies, and the dangers of cramming.
If you are a Monroe student looking for more advice on college coursework and test-taking techniques, then contact the counselors here at Monroe College. We are well-versed in the skill sets needed to effectively prepare for the toughest exams and can help existing and prospective students access the support they need to succeed academically.
Last updated 1 year ago
Preparing your child for college can be a bit overwhelming. However, it is critical that you arm your high schooler with as much knowledge as possible before their departure. Below, you’ll find four areas to focus on when prepping your teenager for college. Cover these essentials and you’ll go a long way towards making sure your child feels comfortable and succeeds in earning their associates and/or bachelor’s degree.
- Finances—Go with your teen to open up a checking account at a local bank and teach them how to set up a weekly/monthly budget, check their account, and regularly monitor how they spend. Also be sure to instruct your child on the ins and outs of credit cards—it’s likely they will be flooded with information from credit card companies in their first year of school and they should be made aware of the dangers of predatory offers.
- Food—Instruct your teen on the basics of cooking, even if they will be provided with a meal plan. Have them practice easy meals at home and teach them how to shop on a budget. It’s also important that you emphasize the importance of healthy eating.
- Fitness—Make sure that your high school student is aware of the health services available to them. Identify the location of any university affiliated medical facilities and, if there are none, then be sure to help your child select a nearby physician. This is also a good time to familiarize your teenager with the concept of health insurance.
- Fun—Maintaining a healthy social life is an important part of the college experience. It is crucial, however, that you instruct your child on the do’s and don’ts of living independently. Talk to them about time management skills that will allow them to succeed academically while still enjoying time with friends.
If you are the parent of a prospective Monroe College student, then check out our page dedicated to educating recent high school students about life on campus. You can also set up an appointment with one of our school counselors should you have more questions about how to prepare your child for their college experience. Attending one of our colleges in the Bronx or Westchester is a great way for your child to get the associates or bachelor’s degree they need to be successful!
Last updated 1 year ago
Check out this article highlighting Monroe College MBA student, Ricardo L. Baez, the May Scholar of the Month for the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute. Great job Mr. Baez!
Last updated 2 years ago
Instituted by the government in 1944, the G.I. Bill provides financial assistance to currently enlisted and previous military members in order to pursue higher education. The included benefits allow veterans to work towards an associates or bachelor’s degree and significantly expand their employment options. Read on for more information about the G.I. Bill and how veterans can make the most of the education benefits available to them.
What Does It Cover?
Veteran military members who apply for G.I. Bill benefits are entitled to several financial perks. Depending on your time spent in the military, you can have up to 100% of your college tuition covered. In addition, you may also receive a monthly living stipend of approximately $1,200 if you plan on attending college full-time. You will also receive money for books (up to $1,000 for full-time students) and one-time financial support for relocation. Typically, any financial aid you receive under the G.I. Bill for college does not have to be repaid.
Program Options
Service members interested in pursuing a college degree have two G.I. program options to choose from: the Montgomery G.I. Bill and the newer, Post 9/11 Bill. There are several pros and cons to each, though the primary differences lie in the range of coverage, the amount of coverage, and the time allotted for your pursuit of an associates or bachelor’s degree. Luckily, there are several online resources available to help you choose the best program for you.
Do you want to know more about the benefits you may be able to receive as a military veteran attending Monroe College? Take a look at our page for Veteran Students to tap into the several resources we offer to our military students and learn how we can help you through the process of applying for G.I. Bill benefits. Feel free to call our veterans admissions counselor or our military benefits specialist if you have further questions or would like to learn more about our college in the Bronx!
