Misconceptions of Studying in the United States

1. America is full of crime and is a dangerous place

Television, Hollywood and sensationalized news reporting have done a disservice to the USA, as far as painting a picture of a crime-ridden country is concerned. While it certainly is true that there are areas in America with crime problems and high crime rates, which is not the norm. In any country, there are areas that one would be more likely to be victimized by crime, and efforts should be made to avoid these areas. The USA is no different. Good judgment is always the best defense.

2. It is too expensive

One thing that cannot be denied is that, if an international student is using foreign funds to pay for his education costs in the USA, he or she is affected by fluctuations in currency exchange rates. However, it is a mistake to think that attending college or university in the USA is extremely expensive. Given the quality of the education, the potential earning power of working in the USA, as well as the various forms of aid available to students, an American education is still affordable. While there are some schools that are'notorious for charging high fees, there are many schools offering great programs for much less. The key is to know how to pick the school that is right for you.

3. You may not be accepted or well-received by the locals

Americans are some of the friendliest and most hospitable people on this earth. The USA is made up of immigrants from all over the world, and most Americans understand that their history, too, descends from other lands. In fact, most Americans are eager to learn about new cultures and they welcome the chance to meet foreigners. Always ask for help. You will be surprised at how much support will be forthcoming.

4. The usa is not known for certain academic disciplines

When one thinks of innovation, one thinks of the USA. It is no exaggeration that America is a world leader and innovator in thousands of industries. One of the main reasons is because the USA is a rich country and it possesses the infrastructure and the opportunities to train and innovate. Whether it is in molecular biology and DNA or acting and drama, the USA offers some of the best training and employment opportunities of any country in the world. It is this very culture that attracts students from all over the world.

5. Recent international developments have made the usa dangerous

Daily life in the USA has long returned to normal after the events of September 11. While the government and its people do take more precautions in general, there simply is no cause for alarm or for an alteration to one's academic plans to study in the USA. In fact, applications to colleges in the USA have not decreased and continues to increase constantly. Life in America has never been better!

Task 3

Comprehension check. Answer the following questions

1. Why do some people consider US to be a dangerous place?

2. Is it really extremely expensive to get higher education in US?

3. What are some schools famous for?

4. What should international students do to be well received by the locals?

5. What kind of training does US universities and colleges offer?

Task 4

Discuss the following issues

1. There are numerous microconceptions by foreigners about the USA and Americans themselves.

2. It is important that these mistaken ideas are fully understood and don^, t prevent a potential international student from obtaining a quality American education.

3. Television and sensational news reporting do not always reflect the norm.

4. Given the quality of the education, the potential earning power of working in the USA, as well as the various forms of aid available to students, an American education is still affordable.

Task 5

Render the text into English