American Center Kolkata hosts pre-departure orientation for US bound students

Approximately 100 students who will be beginning their courses in the Fall Semester 2016 took part in the orientation. 

The day-long program offered the students the opportunity to interact with the U.S. Consul General Craig Hall, who gave the opening remarks at the event.  

Speaking to the students Consul General said, “People-to-people ties are the foundation of the U.S.-India partnership and the relationships that Indian students studying in the United States make with their new American friends and colleagues will shape the future of the bilateral partnership.  Moreover, education and knowledge are key to the future of the relationship, because these students are equipping themselves to master the challenges and take advantage of the opportunities of the 21st century.  And the United States believes it will be Indians and Americans working together to provide solutions for extending peace and prosperity to the next generation.” 

They also interacted with panelists who helped the students learn more about the academic, social, and cultural life in the U.S.  An information session on post-visa related issues was part of the day’s programs.  By participating in the program, the students received glimpses of life in the U.S. — in and out of academia, both on and off campus.  They also met other fellow students who will be traveling to the United States for further studies.

The number of Indian students who are studying in the U.S. in 2015 saw a sharp increase, by almost 30 percent, from the previous year, ensuring the U.S. continues to remain the most preferred international higher education destination for Indians.

USIEF Regional Officer, Shevanti Narayan said, “EducationUSA Kolkata is excited to host this annual orientation which brings together current students and professors of U.S. universities as well as American officers to interact with the new batch of U.S. bound students. This interaction helps the students have an enriching academic experience in the U.S.”