1. Create Account
  2. Login
StudyUSA
Match Me
  • Create Account
  • Login
  • School Search
  • Resources
    • All Resources
    • Articles
    • Student Voices
    • Videos
    • Magazines
    • Podcasts
  • Services
    • All Services
    • Accommodation
    • Support
    • Career
    • Financial
    • Insurance
    • Testing
    • Other
  • Chat
  • TOEFL Testing

Tyson Nguyen from Vietnam: A High School Senior Studying at The Northwest School in Seattle, Washington

Tyson Nguyen from Vietnam: A High School Senior Studying at The Northwest School in Seattle, Washington

Oct 27, 2021

Why did you decide to study in the USA?

I knew that attending a boarding school in the United States would expose me to a miscellaneous and diverse community. This would not only give me great education but would also help me gain multiple perspectives and a better understanding of different values that students bring to the school community. Also, in contrast to most educational systems in Asian countries, which are strictly academically based, schools in the United States provide a comprehensive educational environment that includes academics, extra-curricular activities, voluntary programs, and internships.

Why did you choose The Northwest School?

I liked that The Northwest School is located in the heart of Seattle; the surrounding is extremely pleasant and convenient, with the combination of a metropolis and nature. I also knew some alumni of The Northwest School who had wonderful experience at the school and had been admitted to great universities and colleges. I knew immediately this is a place where I want to go to challenge myself and become better prepared for college.

What do you like best?

Probably the Northwest School’s diverse community of faculty and students.

What do you miss most?

Definitely my family. Being in a boarding school means that you have to learn how to take care of yourself. However, because of this, I have become more responsible and independent and have learned how to manage time, control financial spending, cook, and keep my place organized.

How has this program helped you to handle future study at a U.S. university?

This is my second year at The Northwest School and my English language has improved a lot. Thanks to the school’s rigorous academics and support that the teachers and advisors provide, I was admitted to my dream school, University of British Columbia, which I will start attending this September!

What was your biggest surprise?

My biggest surprise about the American educational system was the fact that art courses were considered as important as other academic subjects such as humanities, mathematics, or science. The Northwest School believes that art classes are equally crucial for students’ education and development.

... your biggest disappointment?

I would say the high cost of living. Yet, it helped me better understand the value of money and learn how to manage my finances.

How have you handled:

... language differences?

The school is very welcoming and supportive to international students and everybody understands that making mistakes is a part of the learning process.  

... adjusting to a different educational system?

At first, it was very difficult to adjust to a new educational system. Writing essays in a specific format, rules of citations, certain lab equipment, or specific vocabularies in science and math, were entirely new to me. It certainly takes time and effort to adapt to the new academic environment. However, when you finally get the hang of it, everything becomes simple and makes sense!

What are your activities?

I am a middle fielder on our school soccer team and I am also a member of the Model United Nations interest group.

How easy or difficult was making friends?

Of course, at first, I felt somewhat nervous and not very confident to reach out to new people, especially the ones who come from different cultures or speak different languages. However, if you are open-minded and interested in getting to know people who might be different than you, then it should not be a problem to make new friends and establish relationships with students from all over the world that will probably last well beyond your school years.

What will you remember most?

Definitely the time when my soccer team played against other schools’ teams under the soaking rain of Seattle!

What is your advice to other students who are considering a U.S. education?

Don’t hide your talents, abilities, or interests from other people. If you can sing, dance, play sports, or draw, do not be afraid or feel embarrassed to do this in front of others, even if you are a beginner. People will better understand and appreciate who you are. This will also help you connect with the broader community of students and faculty outside of your classroom.

Follow us:
Written by

Study in the USA ®

Get matched to the best program for you

Let us know what you're looking for so we can find the best school for you.

Get matched
Call to action background image. Decorative.

Useful Articles

Main image for the article titled Molecular Biology Student Turns “Beautiful Disasters” into Lifelong Call to Service
Molecular Biology Student Turns “Beautiful Disasters” into Lifelong Call to Service
Main image for the article titled Studying English at the University of Texas at Austin
Studying English at the University of Texas at Austin
Main image for the article titled NYU Through Malene's Eyes: A Day in the Life of an International Student and the Key Role of TOEFL
NYU Through Malene's Eyes: A Day in the Life of an International Student and the Key Role of TOEFL
Main image for the article titled Rei Nakatani: Finding the best place to study aboard
Rei Nakatani: Finding the best place to study aboard
Read more

Check Out These Schools

Kent State University

Kent State University

$15,000—$20,000 Semester

Masters English Programs Online
Contact
Study Alabama

Study Alabama

$5,000—$10,000 Semester

Certificate/Short Term 2yr/Community College - 2+2 Programs Online
Contact
Mesa Community College

Mesa Community College

$6,000 - $8,000 Year

Bachelor Degree 2yr/Community College - 2+2 Programs English Programs
Contact

Featured Programs

Mohawk Valley Community College

Typical cost per Year: $5,000—$10,000

Certificate/Short Term English Programs 2yr/Community College - 2+2 Programs
Learn More

Glendale Community College

Typical cost per Year: $5,000—$10,000

Bachelor Degree English Programs 2yr/Community College - 2+2 Programs
Learn More

George Mason University

Typical cost per Semester: $35,000—$40,000

Bachelor Degree Masters Undergraduate
Learn More

Related Stories

What are the Best Parts About Studying Abroad, According to International High School Students?

Main image for the article titled What are the Best Parts About Studying Abroad, According to International High School Students?
Five Schools that Offer Scholarships to International Students

Main image for the article titled Five Schools that Offer Scholarships to International Students
Can I Bring the Kids? Tips for International Students Who Are Concerned About Their Dependents

Main image for the article titled Can I Bring the Kids? Tips for International Students Who Are Concerned About Their Dependents
What Every International Student Should Know About Academic Integrity in the U.S.

Main image for the article titled What Every International Student Should Know About Academic Integrity in the U.S.

Start your U.S. adventure with Study in the USA

What's your dream? We can guide, advise, and connect you with your perfect U.S. school. We can also help you with the application process.
More about us
Partner Services

Learn About U.S. education financing, housing, and more

Partner service logo for Study-USA Healthcare can give you the certainty of protection in an uncertain world.

Study-USA Healthcare can give you the certainty of protection in an...

Get international student medical insurance for as low as $1.12 USD per day. Our plans are available to any student studying outside their home country and include coverage for Covid-19. Get your free quote and enroll today!

Read more
Partner service logo for The Michigan English Test for Higher Education Admissions in the U.S.

The Michigan English Test for Higher Education Admissions in the U.S.

Prove your English and achieve your goals with the Michigan English Test – widely recognized and available on your own schedule at a test center or from home.

Read more
Partner service logo for BetterHelp

BetterHelp

BetterHelp is the world’s largest therapy service, and it’s 100% online. You get the same professionalism and quality you expect from in-office therapy, but with access to a huge network of therapists, more scheduling flexibility, and at a more affor...

Read more

Resources

Learn about American culture and education direct from our experts at Study in the USA. Read more

Achieving Your Goal
Admissions and Placement Testing
Beyond the Basics
Education System in the USA
Financing Your U.S. Education
Frequently Asked Questions
Life in the USA
Resources
Student Experiences
For students age 10-18
Study in Canada
Podcasts
Magazines
Videos
Student Voices
Ask StudyUSA.com

Subscribe to get the latest from Study in the USA

You can unsubscribe at any time.


StudyUSA
Explore

  • School Search
  • Resources
  •   Articles
  •   Student Voices
  •   Videos
  •   Magazines
  • Partner Services
  •   Accommodation
  •   Career
  •   Financial
  •   Insurance
  •   Other
  •   Support
  •   Testing
  • TOEFL Testing
  • Apply
  • Chat
Information

  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Course Index
  • Featured Programs
  • Article Index
  • Create account
  • Sign in
  • For Educators & Institutions
Match Me
  • English
    العربيـة English Español Français Bahasa Indonesia 日本語 한국어 Português Русский ภาษาไทย Türkçe Tiếng Việt 简体中文 繁體中文

  • Privacy & Policy
  • /
  • Terms

Study in the USA logo

© 2023 Study in the USA. All Rights Reserved.

Global Study logo
A member of the Global Study network

When you visit or interact with our sites, services or tools, we or our authorised service providers may use cookies for storing information to help provide you with a better, faster and safer experience and for marketing purposes.