4 Facts for International Students About Liberal Arts
If you're an international student exploring colleges in the U.S., you've no doubt encountered the phrase "liberal arts. " And you're likely confused, because it turns out it has nothing to do with politics or painting.
Instead, liberal arts has to do with the kind of education offered at many universities in the U.S. and Canada. Keep reading to understand exactly what it means, and four ways it can benefit you and your career.
[Check out how international students can benefit from liberal arts colleges.]
1. Liberal arts goes way beyond art. First, understand that a liberal arts education is multidisciplinary. In general, students at liberal arts schools can expect that one-third to half of their classes will be in their major and the rest will be in other subjects.
That means students who want to be scientists will also study English, history and philosophy. Students who want to be accountants may study physics, literature and a foreign language. This focus on breadth helps you gain knowledge in a variety of subjects -- not just the one you plan to make your career.
This variety is also one of the most striking contrasts for international students, who often expect to graduate high school and immediately start a program that will train them to be a doctor, lawyer, engineer or other professional. This isn't the case at a liberal arts university.
The degree you earn will certainly prepare you to get a job, but it is not the equivalent of a medical or law degree, as it is in many countries. American students enroll in th ose programs after finishing college.
[See if you are ready to apply to U.S. universities.]
2. Liberal arts focuses on interaction. Another difference occurs in the classroom itself. Many international students come from schools where they sit at desks and listen to their teachers lecture. They take notes, memorize facts and don't interrupt their professors.
In a liberal arts classroom, your professors will teach with you, not at you. They will expect you to ask questions and offer your opinion. You will debate issues, analyze information and collaborate with other students on projects. It's all part of a process designed to actively engage you in what you are learning.
3. Learning also happens outside the classroom. Liberal arts colleges also emphasize learning outside the classroom. You might study biodiversity and then visit a wilderness preserve to categorize and count the species you see. You might debate minimum wage requirements and then complete a service project at a local homeless shelter. Or you might discuss a novel and then meet the author at a local coffee house or in a Skype chat room.
[Watch out for four academic surprises for new international college students.]
What you learn in the classroom will come to life outside it. And in the process, you'll come to better understand the complex social and scientific issues you've studied.
4. Liberal arts can make you a well-rounded and valuable future employee. Employers and businesses appreciate students who come from a liberal-arts background because the students have a broad understanding of global issues and ideas.
They are exceptional problem solvers and creative thinkers. They can multitask, articulate their ideas aloud and on paper and can work successfully with people who have diverse backgrounds and opinions.
In today's fast-paced and rapidly changing world, those are exactly the skills that set you apart.
Amy Rader Kice is director of international admission and assistant dean at St. Edward's University. She has counseled international students for more than 10 years and volunteers for the CIS Committee on Europe, the Middle East and Africa. She has also completed the College Board's Enrollment Leadership Academy. Connect with her on LinkedIn or via email.
