Study Overseas

A community college in the USA is a strong option particularly if you are looking for a quality US education at an affordable price. Studying In America talks to Katie Lotz, Director of International Studies Programs at Lake Land College about the community college experience in the USA and why she thinks it's a great study option for international students.

Why do international students choose to study in Illinois?

Illinois has such a wide range of offerings for students. Not only do our schools provide a high level of academic quality, but we also provide many opportunities outside of the classroom. From the Magnificent Mile in Chicago to the beautiful scenery of southern Illinois, our state offers students a great snap-shot of life in America. Combine this with our friendly and welcoming people, and you have the perfect place for international students to study abroad.

Why should a student consider a community college in the Illinois?

Community colleges are a great alternative for students starting their post-secondary education, regardless of which state you choose. Community colleges offer personalized attention, academic quality, and affordable tuition. However, the many things that make Illinois great ”including our diversity, welcoming spirit, and beautiful landscape ”serve to make community colleges in Illinois even more attractive for international students.

Overall, how does the "community college experience" differ from a university?

Community colleges are typically able to provide more services for students than 16r universities. Students at community colleges do not have to worry about being alone in a foreign land. There will be someone to guide and assist them every step of the way. In addition to this personalized touch, community colleges are also able to provide the same campus environment found at the universities, including athletics, clubs and other organizations.

How are international students catered for within your community colleges i.e. orientation, ongoing language support etc?

Due to smaller populations, community colleges are often able to offer more services to students. This includes in-depth orientation programs, housing assistance, general student services, community involvement and even extracurricular activities. Many community colleges also offer full-time English as a second language programs. We really value our international students and do everything we can to make their study abroad experience the best possible.

Are the any funding opportunities for study at a community college available to international students?

Community colleges strive to make a quality education available to more people through scholarships and various other forms of assistance. Many schools are now expanding this assistance and offering scholarships to international students as well. While this varies from school to school, international students should not rule out community colleges because they are unable to completely fund their education on their own. Academic scholarships, tuition waivers, in-district tuition programs, and athletic scholarships are all ways that community colleges in Illinois are using to help serve the international population.

Are Associate degrees internationally recognised?

Associate degrees are recognized in many countries throughout the world. This recognition gives students the flexibility of studying for two years and returning home to work, or completing their education at a 4-year institution after finishing their associate degree.

What opportunities are there for further study?

Once students complete their 2-year associate's degree, they are eligible to continue their education at a 4-year college or university. In most cases, the student will complete 2 more years of study once transferring to obtain their bachelor's degree. While many students choose to continue at a university in Illinois when they transfer, students are able to transfer anywhere across the country.

What type of careers do community college graduates go onto achieve?

You can find community college students in almost every field. We have educated lawyers, doctors, engineers, economists, teachers, artists ”the list is endless! Whatever a student's desired major, they will be able to find a community college that best suites them.

What advice would you offer an international student when choosing a community college in Illinois?

First of all, I would advise students to do their research. There are many sites that help students sort through the long list of American schools. Students can visit www.studyillinois.org to see some of the great community colleges in our state. I would also advise students to start a conversation with an international studies representative at the school of their choice. A student will be able to tell ”even through email correspondence ”whether the school is right for them. My Illinois colleagues and I are excited to welcome more international students to Illinois in the coming years!