Why study in the United States?

This question has become a cliche and so have the answers. The truth is that many people are irresistibly drawn to the US without grasping how the that helps them to achieve their end. The States is one amongst the many rich and developed English speaking nations. Why is it the preferred hub for students?

Earlier it was common to complete the undergrad in India and get the Masters done from the US. While with time the brain drain has decreased, with increased affluence and wealth a surprising new trend is emerging. In 2009 the rate of growth of international undergraduate students in the US surpassed that of graduate students. This is accentuated by a slow decline of students from India intending to get a masters but not undergrad courses.

Analysis

The prediction is of course closely related to the financial crisis. As the US job market takes a hit, students who intended to go to America to earn big bucks and live a good life move elsewhere. As that happens we find that new answers are being given to the old cliched question, "Why the USA?".

Answers like, "For great research opportunities" or "to become better entrepreneurs" or even "to get a global exposure" are on the rise and this is a good sign; both for the USA and India. Different students have different aims and outlooks. One is to earn good money and get stability. Others might prefer to lead an easy and fun life within means. Finally there are those who are inclined towards creativity and entrepreneurship . We are seeing a resurgence of the second and third category of students.

I think I belong to the third class and I will support their cause in my blog. A country as large and economically connected as the United States of America cannot go under. In fact this void of economic stability provides a chance for new opportunities. Research done now can create products which will gain enormous market value as the economy recharges itself. The third breed of students are essentially pioneers. Rather than simply follow an established system, they should try to better it.

There are few places in the world where technical education is so closely tied with industry demands. The United States' hands on or practically oriented education is compatible to the needs of the incoming students. This ensures that ideas are created and find a hope of sustenance as long as they provide a use. The success of an idea is the success of the student. Isn't it?