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STEP 1: Define Your Education
and Career Goals
Defining the goals for your education and career will help
you select the most appropriate graduate programs and will
help motivate you through the application process. It will
also assist you in writing the application essays in which
you often will be asked to explain your career goals and how
they relate to your application for graduate study. Lastly,
defining your career goals will lead you to find out exactly
what qualifications are required for that career and whether
or not U.S. credentials are recognized in your home country.
To help define your education and career goals, ask yourself
these questions:
- What career do I want to pursue? Is employment available
in my country in this field? What advanced degree is required
to enter this profession?
Speak to people already working in the field and to representatives
of professional associations. Educational advisers or career
advisers in your country may also have information about
the skills and background required for various professions,
as well as knowledge of the need for professionals in different
fields in your country.
- How will study in the United States enhance my career?
Will a graduate degree help me earn a higher salary?
Consult educators, government officials, and working professionals
in your country about the value of U.S. study for you at
this stage in your career, including any increased earning
potential. Take into account in your planning any revalidation
or certification requirements for employment in your particular
field when you return home.
- What is the system of recognition for U.S. degrees in
my country?
In many countries, a U.S. degree is highly valued, and recognition
of degrees is straightforward. However, in some countries,
particularly those with educational systems markedly different
from that of the United States, graduate degrees from the
United States may not be officially recognized, or they
may be recognized at a different level. If this is the case,
you may still wish to consider U.S. study to gain knowledge
and experience. Check on the situation in your country with
your nearest U.S. educational information or advising center
or with the ministry of education or other appropriate authority
before you begin your applications. Refer to the section
on accreditation.
This step is especially important if you are planning to
undertake a professional program in the United States, because
requirements for professional education usually are rigorously
upheld and vary greatly from country to country.
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