On June 24, EducationUSA Philippines helped 60 Filipinos accepted to U.S. universities better prepare for their studies as they attended the third virtual pre-departure orientation (PDO).
A real-time survey during the event showed that more than half of the PDO participants received financial aid offers from their respective schools amounting to over Php12 million ($240,000). More than half of the undergraduate and graduate students received financial aid awards that are renewable annually.
The orientation answered timely questions about international study, safety and security, and travel during the pandemic, as U.S. universities returned to in-person classes. The Embassy’s Consular Section joined the event to answer questions related to student visas.
Participants also heard from EducationUSA program alumni who shared their experiences and provided advice to the outgoing students: Marian May Cedeño attending University of the Incarnate Word, Jerrilee Laspinas, a Rutgers Alumna USTRIDE Scholar, and Atty. Jill De Dumo-Cornista with Georgetown Law School.
Participants learned as well about classroom culture, campus life, best practices in travel planning, safety and security, and ways to make the most of their time outside the classroom.
“I am excited to see what your future studies have in store for you,” said U.S. Embassy in the Philippines Deputy Cultural Affairs Officer Jennifer Goldstein. “I wish you all an amazing U.S. college experience.”
Increasing access to international education in the United States is among the embassy’s top priorities, especially as it celebrates 75 years of diplomatic relations with the Philippines.
EducationUSA encourages all students accepted to U.S. universities who were unable to attend the event to reach out to EducationUSA advisers with any questions or concerns at manila@educationusa.org or cebu@educationusa.org.
EducationUSA provides free advising services to prospective international students in more than 170 countries and offers students resources and tools to help navigate the five steps to U.S. study: researching schools, identifying financial aid opportunities, completing applications, obtaining a student visa, and preparing for departure.
There are more than 4,700 accredited higher education institutions in the United States, and an EducationUSA adviser can help students narrow their options, define their priorities, and plan their college careers. EducationUSA does not offer scholarships but can assist students in identifying scholarship and financial assistance opportunities.
You can find more information about EducationUSA on Facebook at www.facebook.com/educationusa.philippines and on Twitter at @EducationUSA_PH.
