The US Consulate Kolkata, under the aegis of EducationUSA and United States-India Education Foundation (USIEF), oragised the ‘Study in the US’ fair where about 26 US colleges and universities took part. The education fair was held at The Oberoi Grand on August 19, by EducationUSA — the US government’s official wing that provides information and assistance to students interested in pursuing their higher education in the US.
The free education fair was for students to walk in and interact with the top colleges and universities in the US about their vocation and opportunities. Universities like California State University—San Bernardino, Arizona State University, The George Washington University, New Mexico State University, University of Buffalo, among others were present.
Students and guardians interact with representatives of the US universities and colleges
“It is wonderful to see so many students and parents here. Today is a new beginning and I hope to see some of them going to the US for their higher education,” said acting consul general and director of the American Center Elizabeth Lee. Speaking about the opportunities felicitated by the fair, she added, “We are thrilled to see such a strong turnout at the EducationUSA ‘Study in the US’ university fair here in Kolkata. This event embodies the shared commitment between the United States and India to expand higher educational opportunities and foster cross-cultural exchanges. By bringing together representatives from 26 prestigious US institutions, we are helping students and their families access authentic information on the diverse academic programmes, vibrant and safe campus life, and potential financial support available in the United States.”
Acting Consul General Elizabeth Lee addresses the students
The education fair is held annually across India in Hyderabad, New Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai and Kolkata by EducationUSA. This year, some new education institutes including Drexel University-College of Computing & Informatics, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach, Savanah College of Art and Design, The Chicago School, and others joined the fair in Kolkata.
School and college students attended the fair to seek opportunities for higher education in the US
Sunandita Kundu, a research assistant from IIM Lucknow, was at the fair looking for opportunities in the US to pursue her doctorate degree. “After IIM Lucknow, I took a break and now I am planning to pursue my PhD in business administration from the US since research is very robust in the States. I spoke to a couple of universities like the University of Buffalo,” she said.
The fair provided an opportunity for families, as well as students seeking admission in undergraduate, post-graduate and doctorate programmes to meet with representatives of the accredited universities and colleges from across the United States and discuss academics, student life and financial assistance options.
Lee Ann Sims, consular officer, U.S. Consulate General, Kolkata
Lee Ann Sims, consular officer, US Consulate General Kolkata, presented a slideshow regarding the visa process — from application to guidance for the students. She highlighted, “EducationUSA is there to provide all kinds of assistance to students regarding the visa. One can reach out to us through our email or visit us at the American Center.”
