Thoughts on Europe

I get quite a few American clients who are considering going to college in the UK or even in Australia or New Zealand. I have mixed feelings about the idea. Let me explain.

A college experience in the US is quite unlike anywhere else in the world, and the options available to American students is truly overwhelming. Even professionals like myself need to constantly read and visit colleges to keep up with all the curricular and lifestyle options available to students. You just don't have that diversity at most overseas colleges, and college graduates from overseas can and have told me the same thing.

I think, however, that obtaining some graduate training overseas is a TERRIFIC idea. I did that myself by going to Singapore for a year between Washington University in St. Louis and Harvard. It was a wonderful academic and cultural experience, and honestly, it was a great way to experience a new educational environment. Also, my maturity level after college allowed me to enjoy and appreciate the experience much more than had I done so after high school.

I know everyone is different, and for some US students going international may be the way to do things after high school. However, I think it is a wonderful opportunity best postponed until after you receive your undergraduate degree.