Alexa Cruz, a student at Lehigh University and an intern at American Councils, conducted several webinars for the American Center audience on how to apply for and find funding to study in the U.S. We spoke with Alexa in more detail about student life, American education, her interests, and professional plans.
On Choosing a University and Major
I am a senior at Lehigh University, majoring in psychology with a minor in studio art. I’m deeply interested in understanding why people behave the way they do and how others perceive the world. I also study art because I enjoy using it as a medium to tell stories and capture moments.
I grew up in Norwalk, a suburban town in Connecticut, but my university is located in Pennsylvania. I chose Lehigh because they provide incredible financial support to students from low-income families, and it’s close to home. I enjoy learning and exploring topics I’m passionate about, such as cross-cultural psychology, which examines how cultural differences shape human behavior.
On the Cost of Education in the U.S.
The cost of education in U.S. universities ranges from $20,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on the university. However, don’t let this discourage you—if a university is known for being expensive, it often means it has sufficient funds to support deserving students through grants and loans.
On Finding Funding for Education
Lehigh offers grants that fully cover tuition costs for students whose family income is below $75,000. Fortunately for me, I qualify for this support. While this assistance covers tuition, I still needed to pay for housing and meals. To cover these costs, I applied for additional scholarships and federal aid programs such as the Pell Grant. This process can be long and challenging, but persistence is key. It’s important to advocate for yourself, clearly communicate your needs, and seek additional support when necessary.
What a Typical Student Day Looks Like
I love my university and enjoy learning. Students have access to campus libraries, which are convenient and serve as hubs for group study sessions and meeting friends. Lehigh’s Linderman Library is breathtakingly beautiful, built in a Gothic style that makes it feel like you’re in the Harry Potter universe!
Our class schedules vary depending on campus events and upcoming exams. My days are always different because there’s so much to do on campus besides attending lectures—whether it’s participating in campus events or spending time with friends at weekly game nights or dinner outings. I also prioritize my well-being, so I frequently go to the gym or run outdoors.
On the Features of Studying in the U.S.
One of the main features of studying at U.S. universities is the diversity of students around you. We have students from different countries and cultural backgrounds, so every semester we host various festivals, such as dance performances, to celebrate this diversity.
It’s also well-known that universities in the U.S. can be intense, and mental health issues are common among students. That’s why schools actively promote mental health awareness and provide free counseling services.
On Job Hunting After Graduation and Future Plans
Finding a job after college requires effort, but any graduate can secure a position anywhere. Given the highly competitive job market, it’s essential to work on building a strong résumé throughout your college years. Universities like Lehigh have dedicated platforms that allow students to connect with alumni, who can help with job placements simply because you share the same alma mater.
My life philosophy is to take things one day at a time while keeping my goals and aspirations in mind. I hope to continue my studies in psychology someday, focusing on cross-cultural research and integrating my passion for art into it.
On an Internship with EducationUSA
I got the opportunity to intern with EducationUSA through university programs that enable us to travel abroad and gain new cultural experiences. During this internship, I made many new connections, gave presentations about the U.S. school system and culture, and advised students.
On Working with a Belarusian Audience
Working with Belarusian youth has been a source of pride for me because these students are determined and goal-oriented, striving to make something of themselves in the world. Belarusian students stand out for their discipline, which they demonstrate as they work toward their goals. It’s inspiring to see that despite the challenges and difficulties Belarusian students face, they remain motivated to keep moving forward.
Advice for Those Who Want to Study in the U.S.
My main advice for those who dream of studying at an American university is to understand why you want this experience and what it can offer you. Evaluate how such an experience will impact your life. Who do you want to become, and how will your chosen university help you achieve that? Show your determination and make it clear in your application why your dreams are not only important to you but also valuable to the world.