Studying English in Philadelphia
If you are thinking of studying English in the United States of America, Philadelphia is a great city to consider. This article shares a number of benefits to studying in Philadelphia, as well as a list of places to study English in Philly.
Many international students who want to study in America go straight to Boston, with dreams of Harvard and MIT. Boston can be a great city to study English in, but it’s a small, often expensive city. If you are thinking about Boston, we really recommend you consider studying English in Philadelphia.
History
Philadelphia is a city full of history. The city was founded by William Penn (who the state of Penn-sylvania is named after) in 1682, between the Delaware River and the Schuylkill River. The name comes from the Greek words for love (philos) an brother (adelphos), and its nickname is The City of Brotherly Love.
Philadelphia was also home to Benjamin Franklin, and played an important role in the American Revolution and the founding of the country. Philadelphia was the first capital of the United States. All around the city are old brick buildings from colonial times, and you can casually walk past such famous sites as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
Philadelphia’s Beautiful City Hall
Culture
Philadelphia is home to loads of culture. This includes fine art museums, like the incredible Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Rodin Museum, and the Barnes Foundation. It also includes popular culture. Iconic movies like Rocky, Creed, and the National Treasure series take place in Philly. Philly has an incredible live music culture, as well. Jay Z’s Made in America festival is held here each year.
Food
Without a doubt, the most famous food in Philly is the Philly cheesesteak. They’re great, but there are so many other great foods to try in this city! Roast pork sandwiches with provolone cheese and broccoli rabe are another classic. If you’re looking for a snack, uniquely shaped soft pretzels are another local secret. And be sure to stop into a Wawa for a truly Philly experience!
Price
One of the biggest points in favor of Philadelphia is its price. Compared to nearby New York and Boston, Philly is much cheaper. The cost of living is over 50% lower than it is in Manhattan and over 25% lower than it is in Boston. That makes a big difference!
A City of Immigrants
Philadelphia is a diverse city that welcomes immigrants: 15% of the city’s residents are immigrants and that will only grow, as 25% of the city’s children are immigrants. Walking the streets of Philadelphia, you’ll hear people speaking not just English, but Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Vietnamese, and countless other languages.
Where to study English in Philadelphia
Intensive English Language Programs in Philadelphia
One of the fastest ways to develop your English is in an intensive program, which will generally mean studying at least 20 hours per week. Philadelphia is home to a number of excellent accredited university-based Intensive English Programs:
Temple University - Center for American Language and Culture (TCALC)
University of Pennsylvania - English Language Programs (Penn ELP)
Community College of Philadelphia - Intensive English Language Program (IELP)
St. Joseph’s University - English Language Center Philadelphia
There are also private language schools like the Philadelphia School of Languages and ABA Language Institute.
Community English Classes in Philadelphia
If you don’t need an intensive program, which can be very expensive, free or low-cost English classes from community-based organizations are a great option.
How Can I Learn English Online
The internet makes it possible to learn a language online like you never could before. But make sure you are using your time wisely! Use these five tips to help learn English as quickly and easily as possible.
1. Watch Videos
One of the best things about the internet, when it comes to language learning, is that there is more video than ever. One of the most important things you can do to learn a language is expose yourself to as much of it as possible, and with YouTube you could watch videos in English for years on end!
Turn on the English subtitles to help yourself understand and to build multiple skills at once!
2. Set Goals
Technology also helps us to track and plan our behavior. Consistency is important to language learning, and tools like Google Calendar can help us to build the regular study skills and habits that will result in faster, lasting language learning.
Google Calendar has this really cool Goals feature that is helpful for everything from exercising to learning English!
3. Communicate in Groups
Interaction is an essential part of language learning, and a whole lot of the internet is in English. This means you have a massive environment for learning and using English online. Use whatever website or social network you like! There are even Facebook groups dedicated to learning English!
4. Record Yourself
Recording yourself, watching yourself, and noting where you need to improve are great ways to develop your English. It can be uncomfortable at first, but you need to get outside of your comfort zone to develop your language! This can be especially helpful for your pronunciation!
5. Read!
It’s great that you’re reading about English, don’t forget to read in English.
Many students underestimate the importance of reading in English, but reading is essential for building your vocabulary! Spoken English is mostly just the first 2,000 words in English. You need much, much more than that to become fluent, and the more advanced words are more common in written English.
The internet is full of accessible texts in English! Get lost on Wikipedia and start building that vocabulary!
The Perks of Starting at an ESL School
the perks of starting at an Intensive English Program
Once you decide to study abroad in the US, you will need to choose a school. It's very important to have an in-depth look at the college admission requirements for your desired schools. Many will require an English exam, such as TOEFL or IELTS, if English isn't your first language. This isn't just to inconvenience you and make you study for an obnoxious and expensive test; it's to make sure that you are truly prepared to cope with the demands of having all of your classes in English!
To give you a (very) brief idea of some English exam score requirements, heres a couple of numbers for you.
Harvard recommends (but doesn't require) a TOEFL score of 109 (internet based). Keep in mind that Harvard is what Ivy League school (one of the seven most prestigious colleges in America) one of the hardest colleges in to get into.
Pennsylvania State University requires a minimum TOEFL (iB) of 80 and a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 on the academic test.
As I mentioned earlier, I believe that it’s important to tell it to you straight in these blog posts. So, it's time for some real talk. How is your English level? Have you taken TOEFL or IELTS recently, and how did you do? Are you honestly ready to go to an American college and take all of your classes in English? If so, then that’s amazing! If you’re on the fence about your current English abilities, you may want to consider what I’m about to say.
I remember when I studied abroad in Spain and tried to take a history class in Spanish for the first time. Man, was I in for a shock! It turns out that taking a class in Spanish IN Spain is a very different experience than learning beginner level Spanish in high school. Not only did I have to learn about Spanish history, which was a whole new topic for me, but I also had to learn it all in a language that, as it turns out, I wasn’t very good at! (Thankfully, I had the option to switch out of that class for one in English, but not everyone is always that lucky!)
So, this is where my plug for ESL schools come in. Did you know that it’s super common for international students to start first at an English as a Second Language (ESL) school in America? Students might study at an ESL schools for a semester, or two, and after they have gotten their TOEFL scores up, they will then transfer to to an American college. You may ask yourself, ok well then why don’t I just take more ESL classes in my home country first, and then just go directly to an American college?
Sure! That’s another great option too, but I think ESL schools are amazing because not only are you learning intensive English, but you’re also immersed in American life. If you’re studying English at home, you can learn the English vocabulary for how to order food at a restaurant all you want, but you probably aren’t putting it to use on a daily basis. There’s no better way to improve your English than to learn it while in an English speaking country where you are forced to use it every day. Don’t you remember the idiom “sink or swim”? 🤓
So, at the end of day you have a lot to consider, but I hope that this blog will help you to start narrowing down your choices! Like I said, try making a list of the top 3 things that are most important for you when considering where you want to study abroad. Everyone has different priorities! What are yours?
Hi! My name is Sarah and I have 8 years of experience working with international students studying in the United States, most recently at Berklee College of Music in Boston. I share your passion for adventure, and am currently traveling through Asia as part of the Ginseng English Anywhere tour! I’ll be writing many blog posts about studying abroad, so if you’ve decided to study abroad in the US, then this is the place is for you!
If have any questions about studying abroad, or are interested in scheduling an advising appointment with me, e-mail me at sarah@ginse.ng
OTHER FREE RESOURCES ABOUT STUDYING ABROAD
Where in America Should I study?
Where in America Should I study?
Where to start? Where to study?
Now that you’ve made the (correct 😎) choice to study in the U.S., you need to figure out where in the U.S. you want to be! Each of the 50 states in America is different, not only in size, weather, and population, but in culture too! Did you know that it is a 6 hour flight or a 5 day road trip from Boston to Los Angeles? Or that people in different states speak with different accents? Or that each state has their own flag!? The point is, America is HUGE!
You may have already read Choosing Where to Study Abroad: 7 Thoughts to Guide your Decision, but as you narrow down your choices, it is important to consider them again, and more specifically this time.
Half the battle is choosing where in the U.S. you want to study, but we'll also have another post soon on how to choose a specific school. Hopefully this summary of the culture and geography of America will help you to get your bearings!
Size and Population
You may be surprised to find out just how big and diverse the U.S. is. To get a handle on the geography of such a huge country, you can think of it in four general parts:
The Northeast: The eastern shoreline, along the Atlantic Ocean from Maine to Delaware.
The West Coast: The western shoreline, along the Pacific Ocean, from California up to Washington and Oregon.
The Midwest: the north western part of America, bordering Canada, including Illinois, Wisconsin, and Kansas, just to name a few. The Pacific Northwest also blends into the west coast, and the midwest with states such as Montana, Wyoming and Idaho.
The South: The states below the Mason-Dixon line, located between the West Coast and the Atlantic Ocean, including Texas, Louisiana and Alabama.
Here’s some math for you that hopefully won’t break your brain. There are almost 4 million people living in Los Angeles (L.A.), with a large land area of 1,200 km2. On the other hand, San Francisco, another big city in California, has only about 884,363 people, but has a much smaller land area of 121 km. What this means is that you will see a lot less people walking down the street in L.A. than in San Fransisco because even though the population is much larger, so is the land, so it is much more spread out city. If you love a big, bustling city with people everywhere and crowded streets, you would love San Fransisco, but if you prefer a quieter city with a lot of trees and peaceful streets, L.A. might be more your speed. Check out this wikipedia article for various city sizes and decide which size is right for you!
Culture
Mt. Rainier, so close to Seattle, you feel like you can reach out and touch it!
If you choose to go to school in a northern city on the West Coast, like Portland Oregon, or Seattle, Washington, be prepared for comfortable temperatures, and lots of rain, which means green parks everywhere! In California, there is typically less rain, and in fact, some people say that San Diego has the most perfect weather in the world! People in these cities, much like on the east coast, tend to be more open minded and liberal. There is a great music scene, lots of good seafood and ample outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, rock climbing, etc.
In cities on the East Coast, such as Boston, New York, Philadelphia or Washington, D.C., you will be surrounded by the bustling city life. You will get to experience a solid four seasons, especially the more north you are. People are friendly, but fast moving, however these cities have hundreds of colleges in them so making new friends won't be a problem! You can get just about any food you can dream of from a Philadelphia cheesesteak, to a New York City slice of pizza, or a New England lobster roll. 🤤 You will be close to the ocean, so you can take advantage of the beaches on Cape Cod or the New Jersey Shore during the summer!
With music playing at every street corner, New Orleans feels almost magical
The East and West Coast are fairly similar in terms of culture and people, but where you really start to feel a difference is in the South and the Midwest. If you go to school in a city in the South, such as Miami, Atlanta, Austin, or New Orleans, life will be a little slower. You will find great southern food, such as a Po'boy sandwich, shrimp and grits, or a nice big Texas steak. In many of theses cities, especially New Orleans there is a huge historical Jazz scene which can easily transport you back 100 years just by stepping into an old bar! People in the south tend to be more politically conservative, super friendly, and family oriented. Be prepared for high humidity in the summer, and lots of sunshine year round. If you hate snow, the South might be the place for you!
The Midwest is where you will find sprawling fields full of wheat, corn, and other various crops. If you go for a drive, you might reach Big Sky Country in Montana, which is named appropriately because the sky seems as if it could go on forever. There is a big focus on farming, wildlife and the beauty of nature in this part of the country, so life is a little slower and quieter. If you are looking to study agriculture, this is the place for you! People in the Midwest have a great accent, and are extremely friendly!
If farming isn't for you, Chicago is one of the most popular cities out here, with many great schools for you to choose from, great city life, and is also packed full of good food. Make sure you try out some Chicago deep dish pizza and their famous hot dogs and cheese curds! The four seasons are very intense here, so be prepared for a ton of snow in the winter, and hot summers!
Wheat fields of Idaho seem to go on forever
Weather
There's nothing like a snowy day in New England
The U.S. is so big that the weather can be completely different from one state to another, and especially one coast to the other! There are some places that experience a very intense four seasons (Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer), but other places that are warm all year round. If you're someone who is greatly affected by the weather, you'll want to take this in to consideration.
For example, If you were to visit Boston in March, you will most likely find it still freezing with 2 meters of snow on the ground, and this is after a longggg winter that started back in November! However, if you went over to the west coast in Las Vegas during the same time of year, you would find it hot and sunny. Even the summers are different, especially from north to south! Summer in Vermont, which is in the northern part of the country, is very beautiful, breezy, sunny, and not too hot. Summer in New Orleans, in the south, is very humid, which can make it very sticky and uncomfortable. (Can you tell that I’m more of a New England girl? 😉)
What's your preference?
City or town?
In the US, you will notice that there are many different types of areas to live and study in. There are over 50 large cities, but that doesn't mean you necessarily need to study in a city if you want to study in America!
Going to school in a city can be a great experience because not only are you getting the experience of studying at an American institution, but you're also experiencing life in an American city. Living in a city, you'll see something new everyday, and be surrounded by the excitement and hustle and bustle of the city culture. Of course, like in any country, living expenses are higher in a city. Finding an apartment to rent might be a little bit more of a challenge because city college students are usually expected to be more independent. Your college campus might be spread out throughout the city, so you'll get the fun of exploring the city as you walk to class! Here is a fun and informative quiz to help you find which American city is best for you!!
We often use the term "college town" to mean a small town that is built around a college. A college town can be an extremely fun place to go to school! In a college town, you can usually walk everywhere, and you will be surrounded by your fellow students wherever you go, There will be a ton of restaurants, bars, cute little shops, and theaters and most of them are built to cater to the college students. In a college town you will have no problem finding houses or apartments to rent with other students, and will usually get more for your money because there is a lot more space than in a city. In general, your money will probably go further if you study in a town because the cost of living is much lower than in a city. Here is a list of some of the most popular college towns in America.
Lastly, this is a list of the best colleges according to their location. These are all just general resources to get you started!
I think it's safe to say that no matter where you choose to study in the US, you will find something amazing. However, the choice can be very overwhelming, so stay tuned for more Ginseng English blog posts to help guide you in your study abroad process!
Hi! My name is Sarah and I have 8 years of experience working with international students studying in the United States, most recently at Berklee College of Music in Boston. I share your passion for adventure, and am currently traveling through Asia as part of the Ginseng English Anywhere tour! I’ll be writing many blog posts about studying abroad, so if you’ve decided to study abroad in the US, then this is the place is for you!
If have any questions about studying abroad, or are interested in scheduling an advising appointment with me, e-mail me at sarah@ginse.ng
OTHER FREE RESOURCES ABOUT STUDYING ABROAD
Study Off the Beaten Track in the US
When considering where to study English in the US, the first places that come to most international student’s minds are New York City, Boston, Los Angeles, and maybe Chicago, but there is so much more to America! Take a look at these brief descriptions of weird and wacky American cities and see if any of them might be your cup of tea.
Study Off the Beaten Track in the US
When considering where to study abroad in the US, the first places that come to most international student’s minds are New York City, Boston, Los Angeles, and maybe Chicago, but there is so much more to America! Some prefer to go off the beaten track, or travel to an unusual place less popular and well known. Take a look at these brief descriptions of weird and wacky American cities and see if any of them might be your cup of tea.
Portland, Maine
Freshest seafood of your life!
The first of three cities situated in beautiful New England, the historic northeastern part of the U.S., Portland is nestled along Maine’s rocky coastline. This up-and-coming city is developing a reputation for its great food, beer, and arts scenes. Duck Fat is probably the most famous restaurant here, so much so that Bostonians make the two-hour drive north from Boston without a second thought.
With several schools to choose from, such as Maine College of Art, University of Southern Maine, and University of New England you have quite a selection. If you love rustic New England, delicious seafood and local beer but don’t mind long, cozy winters, Portland, Maine is worth a try!
Providence, Rhode Island
WaterFire!
An industrial city with a whole lot of culture and character, including farmers’ markets, the nearby Newport Folk and Jazz Festivals, beaches, WaterFire events along the Woonasquatucket river, Providence is a small city with a lot to offer. Their food culture revolves around seafood, so come and try a Stuffie (a clam stuffed with sweet meat or some of their incredible Portuguese food.
Providence has a number of excellent schools, including the top-ranked Brown University, Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), Johnson & Wales and University of Rhode Island (URI) not too far away.
If you want a taste of New England, but Boston seems too clichéd, check out Providence!
Bozeman, montana
Nothing like the Rocky Mountains
Montana is known as Big Sky Country: wide open spaces of cornfields and mountains, where the crystal blue sky over head feels immense, like you’re seeing it in HD for the first time. In Montana, your back yards are Glacier and Yellowstone, two of America’s most famous national parks, with all variety of wildlife—bears, bison, moose, elk, deer. Situated in the heart of it all, Bozeman is a one-of-a-kind college town.
Bozeman has that safe, small town feeling, where everyone knows everyone. Surrounded by mountains, the possibilities in Bozeman feel endless. Whether you want to try rock climbing, rafting, fly fishing, or cross country skiing, there’s something for everyone here. Montana State University was recently named one of the best colleges for outdoor adventures, so much so that adventurous professors from around the world at taking jobs here.
There is a sense of the Wild West, you’ll see locals working the fields, horses and cows grazing, and endless abandoned coal mining towns. However, cozy bars are still the center of social life, especially during the cold winters when local bands play at your favorite brewery next to an open wood fire.
Bozeman is a small town, but there are great opportunities for international students such as INTERLINK, Montana State University’s Intensive English Program. If you’re looking for some peace and quiet, want to spend time hiking with fellow outdoorsy people and then finish your day with some local craft beer, consider Bozeman
AUSTIN, TEXAS
Typical scene in Austin
Austin may be technically in Texas—home of George Bush, George W. Bush, and all things oversized—but don’t expect to see too many cowboys or horses within the city limits. Austin’s slogan is “Keep Austin Weird” for a reason: this city is truly a unique place, and feels unlike any other part of Texas.
If you’re a meat eater, you can’t possibly miss Austin, famous for some of the best barbecue in the country. And with its proximity to Mexico, the Mexican food is out of this world. Vegetarian or even vegan? Don’t worry, there’s plenty here for you too, including BBQ tofu “ribs”!
Rainey Street, a row of historic houses converted into bars and restaurants, is a unique spot you can hang out in what used to be someone's living room, while eating some of the best tacos of your life and listening to a lively bluegrass band. Austin’s Bangers Sausage House sums up the vibe perfectly by saying it’s “Not too rowdy, not too laid back, just a good old fashioned good time.”
The University of Texas at Austin, Texas State University as well as the massive Austin Community College are all within a stone’s throw of this beautiful city. If you want an all-American experience with a touch of that weird wild west twang, Austin should be on your list!.
burlington, vermont
Free ice cream!? Sign us up!
Nestled in the mountains of Vermont, but only a few miles from Canada, Burlington is known for some of the best fall foliage in the country, as well as beautiful hiking and skiing spots. This town is quintessential New England, with a hint of weird, in the best way possible. Uncommercialized to the extent that billboards were outlawed in the 70’s, Burlington is a hippy mecca, where all wacky walks of life come together to celebrate music, good beer, and nature.
Burlington is a small town, but the students from the Champlain College and University of Vermont make up a large part of the population, so there is always something going on! However, if that doesn’t quite do it for you, take 20 mile drive across the border to New York and check out the scene at SUNY College of Plattsburg.
If you’re not sold on this town yet, let us direct your attention to the free ice cream will: Burlington is the home of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream, whose factory you can visit for free samples!
Denver, Colorado
Nothing like the Mile High City!
Surprisingly flat but within an hour’s drive of some of the biggest mountains in the US, Denver, Colorado is an adventure-seeker’s paradise. Whether your sport is rock climbing, fishing, mountain biking, hiking, or drinking Denver has you covered. As one of the quickest growing cities in the country, with a population with an average age of 34, it’s impossible to miss a weekend camping trip with all the new friends you’ll make here.
Not only are schools like University of Colorado and College America Denver options, but you have Boulder, a fun little hippy town, right down the street with a bunch of great community colleges to choose from.
If you love to hang out in a great city Monday through Friday, but take a break and dive into the wilderness over the weekend, Denver is the perfect fit for you.
Portland, Oregon
This famous sign will guide you home
No, that’s not a typo: there are two Portlands in the U.S.—actually, there are over 30—but two of them are well-known and cool enough to make our list of weird places to study. The Portland in Oregon is a quirky city in the Pacific Northwest, just a short drive from two other awesome cities: Seattle and Vancouver, Canada. Portland is known for hipster craft beer joints like McMenamins, retro arcade games, lush local hikes along the coast, and, well, rain—lots and lots of rain.
In case the Portland Japanese Garden, street art and graffiti, interactive movie theaters, and the International Rose Test Garden don’t keep you busy enough, you can spend an entire afternoon at Powell’s City of Books, the largest independent bookstore in the world.
Portland is home to Concordia University Portland, Pacific Northwest College of Art, and Portland State University, to name just a few. If you’re looking for a weird place to study, watch a few episodes of Portlandia to see if you can handle the weird!
Savannah, georgia
The trees and architecture of Savannah will blow your mind.
In the heart of America’s south, not far from the massive metropolitan hub of Atlanta, sits Savannah, Georgia. Walking down the streets of Savannah, between picturesque homes, beneath dangling tangles of Spanish moss, you can easily picture horses and carriages rolling over the same cobblestone roads. Sample a variety of southern cuisines: buckets of shuck-your-own oysters, shrimp and grits, or southern fried chicken.
Southern hospitality and confederacy run deep in this part of the country, so there is history everywhere you turn. Are you a Tom Hanks Fan? If so, you can take a stroll through the square where he waited for his bus in Forrest Gump and compared life to a box of chocolates!
With an artsy school like Savannah School of Art and Design, a techy one like Savannah Technical College, and Savannah State University, there’s something for every kind of student here.
If you don’t mind shucking yourself, talking to the locals about the weather (spoiler alert: It’s hot), and regular reminders of America’s dark past, Savannah is a beautiful spot to spend a semester!
New Orleans, Louisiana
Jazz on every street corner
You may have heard Creedence Clearwater Revival sing about being “Born on the Bayou.” Well, New Orleans sits right on the Bayou, a very wet area in the south of Louisiana. NOLA, as many affectionately call it, was once a French territory, so a visit here can feel like taking a step back through European history. Throw in that southern influence, green trees canopied over streets flowing with jazz music and a rich history, and NOLA feels truly magical.
With the party scene on Bourbon St, you may find it hard to get to class, but if you do, there are many great colleges such as Tulane and Loyola University of New Orleans right nearby. After class, take a stroll through the numerous art galleries, take a break to do some homework in the abundant parks, and end your day by hopping on a ferry or street car home!
NOLA is also one of the few places in America where you can drink in the streets, so grab an old-fashioned and go for a stroll along the river! If you love jazz, seafood and ghost stories and have the kind of hair that can handle the humidity, New Orleans might be the perfect fit for you.
Nashville, tennessee
These boots were made for walkin’…
We use the idiom the calm before the storm to describe the very calm, quiet, or peaceful time before a big argument breaks out, a big change happens, somethSet in central Tennessee, Nashville is the place for you if country music is your thing. Indeed, simply the name Nashville is often used to represent the country music industry. A short walk down Music Row, and you’ll see why: neon lights, cowboy hats, and live music pouring out into the streets at all hours of the day and night.
Some of our other suggestions are known for there beer, and you can certainly find a great craft brew at ---, but Tennessee is bourbon country, so order a shot of Jack Daniel’s with that beer. You'll need it to cool off your tongue when you try Nashville’s signature dish, hot chicken.
There are a handful of universities in and around Nashville, most with music and performing arts programs, like Vanderbilt and Tennessee State
Whether your musical taste is more Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton, Jack White and Kings of Leon, or Taylor Swift and Miley Cyrus, you can start your music career where these icons did right in Nashville.
Seattle, Washington
There are lots of great things about Seattle, but its library is certainly top of the list.
If you glance at a map, it’s hard to believe that just south of Canada, surrounded by National parks, this little clump of islands and peninsulas actually makes up one of America’s most iconic cities, Seattle. Home to Starbucks, Pike Place Market, and the freshest oysters you can find, this is another foodie’s paradise. Constant farmers markets, street fairs, art shows, and concerts means there’s always something going on. Despite being known for constant rain, the temperature is comfortable year round, and living here means you can skip out on the snowy winters! So up your dosage of Vitamin D supplements, buy a reliable poncho, and get ready for some of the lushest forests in the country.
Seattle isn’t quite as hilly as San Francisco, but it sure is close. If you can climb up the steep streets, you’ll find many schools to choose from, such as Seattle University, Bellevue College, and Cornish College of the Arts.
If the allure of being within just a couple hours drive to the ocean, deserts, and mountains can outweigh the “light” Seattle rain, you might just find your home in this green paradise.
Berkeley, California
That view, though…
There’s no going wrong, no matter where you visit in California, because well, it’s California! However, nestled right on the San Francisco Bay with a breathtaking view of the Golden Gate Bridge, a perfect Mediterranean climate, and Napa wineries only an hour away, Berkeley is a no brainer.
Berkeley is known for being super diverse, educated and liberal, so it’s no surprise that it’s home to the esteemed University of California at Berkeley, as well as California College of the Arts, and Berkeley City College. UC Berkeley is California’s first college, where the free speech movement originated, and where hippies are speculated to have sprouted from, so this area is rich with culture. Post graduation, this city also offers a ton of great opportunities for start ups and techies given it’s close proximity to Silicon Valley. On the other hand, if you want to take a break from academia for a weekend, there are endless mountains to climb, beaches to sunbathe on, and slopes to ski.
As the nation's first city to impose a soda tax, Berkeley is a health-conscious town, to say the least. If you love to be surrounded by open-minded people, bike lanes in every street streets, and weekly farmers markets, you might have found your new home.
minneapolis, minnesota
No, Minneapolis isn’t the newest virus going around. It’s one of the biggest cities in Minnesota, just south of Canada! You’re in lake territory now: Minnesota is known for having 10,000 lakes, and Minneapolis is home to more than 22 of them.
Brrrrr!!
Minneapolis is infamous for some of the harshest winters in the US, but don’t worry, they found a solution in one of the longest continuous skyway system in the world! Spanning over 18 kilometers, this climate-controlled walkway connects schools, banks, restaurants, and malls so there’s never a need to brave the snow if you don’t want to! In fact, Minnesotans make the most of their winter by embracing the quieter pace of life and ice skating on one of those 22 lakes, cross country skiing, and of course, sledding!
Close to it’s Twin City, St. Paul is a quick drive away, as is Ontario, Canada! There are plenty of liberal arts colleges to choose from, such as the University of Minnesota, Walden University and Minneapolis college.
If you look great in winter attire, and love clean air, the friendliest of mid western folks and a great quality of life, you may want to consider Minneapolis!
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Geno’s vs. Pat’s cheesesteaks? You choose!
Philadelphia is an undervisited city among tourists, known as “The Birthplace of the United States.” Both the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were written here, and the city served as the capital of the U.S. from 1790 to 1800
Don’t get us wrong, Philly is no bore! Take a run up the famous Rocky steps, then follow your nose to tasty Reading Terminal Market to scarf down a Philly cheesesteaks, and end your night on South Street for an offbeat punk vibe with tons of shopping, bars and pizza places.
A quick train ride to both New York City, and Washington, D.C., complete with a bustling city life Philadelphia, or more affectionately known as “The City of Brotherly Love,” is just an overall great city. If you’re a sports fan, you can certainly find your niche among Eagles and Phillies fans. If you prefer to hang out in a local park, check out a rowing race, or just have a quiet coffee, Philly has it all. Of course, there are also many great places to study such as Temple and Drexel University, as well as the Ivy League University of Pennsylvania.
.This not too south, but not too north, location makes all four of the seasons bearable. However, if the humidity gets to you, but you can take a dip in the ocean at the “Jersey Shore,” just a quick drive away! If this sounds like your speed, check out Philadelphia!
Read more about studying English in Philadelphia
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六个出国留学的理由
选择出国留学是一个害怕但令人兴奋的决定！如果你正在考虑到某一个国家留学，让我看看能不能帮助你做决定。我们有成百上千的理由去留学，但下面六个理由是你决定留学之前所需要考虑的。
选择出国留学是一个害怕但令人兴奋的决定！如果你正在考虑到某一个国家留学，让我看看能不能帮助你做决定。我们有成百上千的理由去留学，但下面六个理由是你决定留学之前所需要考虑的。
1. 学习一门新语言
你是怎么猜到我会从这个理由开始呢？😉我假设，如果你正在登陆Ginseng English的博客，那你正在考虑去一个说英语的国家学习。学习英语是个好主意，因为英语是世界上最常用的语言之一，也是旅行时使用的通用语言。
学习英语最好的方法就是去一个说英语的国家生活。就像他们说的，或者下沉或者漂浮！
2. 像当地人一样生活
也许留学最酷的事情是这不是假期，这就是你现在的生活。
像当地人一样生活，像当地人一样吃饭
实际生活在一个新的地方，而不仅仅到新的地方旅游，你可以让自己融入到新的家里，而这是度假生活无法体验到的。尝试所有的咖啡店，直到找到你最喜爱的拿铁。记下你最喜欢的调酒师的名字。找到去学校最快和风景最优美的路线，并享受每天做决定走哪一条路的时光。在你意识到这一点之前，你会走在大街上，意识到你不再像一个游客了——你觉得自己像个本地人。
你不仅有机会在你学校所在的地方有家的感觉，而且你有机会去探索这个国家！还有什么比周末去纽约或加州的海滩更酷的呢？
3. 结交新朋友
旅行给了你和你的朋友一个很好的借口去欢乐地自拍!
在国外学习的有趣之处是，在这个项目里的每个人都和你在同一条船上。他们都热衷于交朋友，和你一起探索这座新的城市。你会比以前更快地交到朋友。当你们在一起经历新事物的时候，你们会结下一个终生的友谊。有那么一刻，上课的时候你们都不知道老师在说什么，或者有那么一刻，你们对学校里的饭菜都不满意，这些记忆会一直陪伴着你们。
其次，你不仅仅是和当地人结交朋友，还和来自世界各地的人们分享你的兴趣爱好。这意味着下次你旅行的时候，你可以去世界各地探望你的朋友！
4. 增加工作机会，建立广泛联系。
这不是最令人兴奋的地方，但是出国留学对你的简历有好处！你冒着风险离开一切熟悉的事物，探索未知的事物，显示出你的决心和毅力。当你从国外学习回来的时候，你会对其他的文化有更深入的了解，也会有更全球化的视角。雇主们喜欢看到自己的员工有世俗的经验，而其他人可能并不具备。当然，能够说流利的英语会使你的简历更有竞争力。
你将会遇到来自世界各地的人，如果你想将来在国际公司谋职，这些联系可能会派上用场。
5. 尝试所有的新食物。
你还没吃过新鲜的新英格兰龙虾呢！
我怎么没早点提到食物！食物是每个文化的重要组成部分，每个新地方都有上百种新的食物可供尝试！你可能会发现一个新的最爱——或者你最不喜欢的！——或者你从来不知道的食物！
还有，我知道有些人说，没有所谓的“美国食品”，但是你在波士顿吃过龙虾卷吗？在费城吃过芝士牛排吗？在新奥尔良吃过po' boys吗？美国还是有一些很棒的食物的……
嘿，如果尝试新食物不是你的菜，或者如果有一天你真的很想家，你也很有可能在你的新城市里找到一些熟悉的食物。大多数大城市都有唐人街，小意大利，或者有国际食品区的杂货店，在那里你可以找到很多东西。无论你来自巴西、越南还是意大利，放心，你都可以找到属于你的拿铁，你的卡布奇诺。🤓☕️
6. 学会依靠自己
在你留学的时候，你会体验到真正独立的感觉。我不撒谎，生活总会有一些可怕的时刻。你甚至会哭 (我知道我哭过)。但也会有一些神奇的时刻发生，例如你从这段经历中知道自己的能力所在，知道你目标和梦想。想想看，你最后一次为自己的决定负责然后决定今天想要做什么是在什么时候？你想要看到什么？你想跟谁交谈？或者你想吃什么？一切都由你自己做主！享受这独立自主的时光！
现在，让我们不要太多愁善感，但当你在外面努力奋斗的时候，你可能发现自己对会对自己的朋友、家人和家里的其他小事情产生新的感激之情。比如你带着的妈妈给你做的针线包？当你最喜欢的牛仔裤破了的时候，你别无选择，只能感谢她。你曾经和你的弟弟吵架吧？你可能最终会思念那张愚蠢的小脸蛋。当你被困在一列满载的火车上，但这些乘客都不说你的语言的时候，你甚至会怀念你在家乡每天乘坐的拥挤的公交车。
不要担心！在国外生活将会迫使你找到新的方法与家乡的人保持联系，并且可能会让你跟他们更亲密。你甚至可能会发现写信的艺术！
你好！我的名字叫莎拉，我在美国有8年从事国际学生工作的经验。我最近的工作经历是在波士顿的伯克利音乐学院工作。我愿意和您分享你对冒险的热情。作为Ginseng English Anywhere旅途的一部分，我正在亚洲旅行。我会写很多关于留学的博客文章，如果你已经决定到美国学习，你就来对了地方！
如果你有任何关于留学的问题，或者有兴趣预约咨询，请给我发电子邮件：sarah@ginse.ng
OTHER FREE RESOURCES ABOUT STUDYING ABROAD
选择去哪里出国留学：指引你做决定的七种想法
既然你已经下定决心要出国学习，你就需要决定你想去哪个说英语的国家学习!
你可能会想，“我是不是应该去可以和袋鼠一起玩的澳大利亚？”或者“要不加拿大？贾斯丁 特鲁多很帅…”或者爱尔兰怎么样？我喜欢倒一杯吉尼斯黑啤酒 …”或者“也许美国!一个芝士汉堡现在听起来很棒!
这一切在理论上听起来都很不错，但重要的是要撇开对这些国家的刻板印象，再确定哪个才是最适合你的留学国家。让我们多谈谈如何获得你想要留学的国家的现实情况。最终，由你来决定哪个国家对你来说是最合适，但你首先要考虑以下几点。
既然你已经下定决心要出国学习，你就需要决定你想去哪个说英语的国家学习!
你可能会想，“我是不是应该去可以和袋鼠一起玩的澳大利亚？”或者“要不加拿大？贾斯丁 特鲁多很帅…”或者爱尔兰怎么样？我喜欢倒一杯吉尼斯黑啤酒 …”或者“也许美国!一个芝士汉堡现在听起来很棒!
这一切在理论上听起来都很不错，但重要的是要撇开对这些国家的刻板印象，再确定哪个才是最适合你的留学国家。让我们多谈谈如何获得你想要留学的国家的现实情况。最终，由你来决定哪个国家对你来说是最合适，但你首先要考虑以下几点。
1. 最适合你的学校
我们很容易就能找到世界上最好的大学，但更重要的问题是，哪个国家有最适合你和你的研究领域的学校？如果你正在攻读工程学学位，哪些国家有专门从事工程学的学校？学校在你的国家和学校所在的国家的声誉如何？GoAbroad.com和Times Higher Education都有很好的搜索工具来比较学校和进行专业排名。
2. 入学的竞争力
从学校到学校，从国家到国家，这都是不同的。在之后的文章里我们将会讨论更多这方面的内容，但在选择学校的时候，还是应该有现实一点的期望。
一般的入学要求是什么？你是否需要托福成绩，SATs，GREs，雅思，或者其他完全不同的考试？如果你已经有了一个分数，或者正在为一个特定考试而学习，那么你很可能应该首先考虑那些接受这个考试成绩的国家。
3. 文化
除了良好的教育经验，你想在留学期间体验什么样的文化？想想哪个国家适合你的个性，你的兴趣爱好，甚至你的天气偏好。你是在寻找一个与你的城市完全不同的学校，还是想找一个在你想家的时候有一些熟悉的舒适的地方？
每一个国家都是不同的，你可能需要花费数年的时间来研究这些问题。但是这篇关于不同国家文化的指南是一个好的开始！看一看，告诉我们你是否同意它关于你的国家的说法！
4. 离家的距离
长远的路途
我有一些学生花了超过24个小时从亚洲到达他们的新学校，而还有一些学生只坐3个小时的飞机从加拿大过来。
去新学校的旅途会让你兴奋吗？或者你更喜欢比较靠近家的地方？你打算节假日回家吗？你父母希望来参观和探望你吗？机票多少钱？这个有趣的网站可以快速地向你展示从一个国家到另一个国家的飞行时间！
5. 价格
做预算是可怕的，但也是必要的!
对我们大多数人来说，价格在这个重要决定中起着重要的作用。你一定要查看具体国家的学费和生活费。汇率是多少？这个国家是否为留学生提供奖学金或助学金？
GoAbroad.com和Business Insider只是研究海外留学成本的有用资源中的两个，但我们还会在这里讨论更多!
6. 签证要求
签证:头痛!
了解如何从本国获得签证是很重要的。申请留学国家的签证有多难？你需要定期旅行来续签吗？你能在那里合法工作吗？NAFSA提供了一些很好的资源来开始研究这个问题，但是在这里寻找更多的关于在美国学习的签证和移民建议的博客文章。
7. 受欢迎程度
出国留学比以往任何时候都更受欢迎！这很好，但是这对你来说意味着什么呢？这意味着你可以选择到热门的留学国家学习，或者你可以选择到一个比较冷门的留学国家学习。
例如，如果有一万名西班牙人在波士顿学习，但只有五百人在墨尔本学习，那你想要成为一万分之一，还是五百分之一？你想在休息的时候和你说同一种语言的人一起聊聊天？还是想任何时候都使用英语？
对我们当中的一些人来说，知道我们在国外可以立即与来自我们国家的其他学生交朋友可能是一种安慰。对另一些人来说，他们并不喜欢这样，因为他们想要体验尽可能多的新事物。没有痛苦，没有收获，对吧？一些学生发现，如果他们周围的人都在说自己的语言，他们就不会被鼓励或推动快速学习英语。
看看不同国家的国际学生的数量，考虑一下你是否愿意和来自同一个国家或不同国家的学生一起学习。这是一个个人的选择，而且并没有错误的答案！
家庭作业
我们知道这需要很多的考虑，而且一开始可能会让人不知所措。但是，一步一步来！这里有一些家庭作业给你：看看你是否能缩小清单上范围到3个最主要的因素上，并利用上面所提供的资源开始你的留学计划！
这里有一些关于在不同的说英语的国家里留学的好资源！
你好！我的名字叫莎拉，我在美国有8年从事国际学生工作的经验。我最近的工作经历是在波士顿的伯克利音乐学院工作。我愿意和您分享你对冒险的热情。作为Ginseng English Anywhere旅途的一部分，我正在亚洲旅行。我会写很多关于留学的博客文章，如果你已经决定到美国学习，你就来对了地方！
如果你有任何关于留学的问题，或者有兴趣预约咨询，请给我发电子邮件：sarah@ginse.ng
Other free resources about studying abroad
Choosing Where to Study Abroad: 7 Thoughts To Guide Your Decision
Choosing Where to Study Abroad: 7 Thoughts to Guide Your Decision
So much to choose from!
Now that you’ve made up your mind to study abroad, you’ll need to decide exactly which English speaking country you want to study in!
You might be thinking something like, “Should I go to Australia where I can hang out with kangaroos?” or “Maybe Canada? That Justin Trudeau is pretty good lookingp…” Or how about Ireland? I do love a glass of properly poured Guinness…” or “Maybe the USA! A cheeseburger sounds aMAAAAzing right now!”
This all sounds great in theory, but it’s important to get past the stereotypes of the countries to determine which one is really the best for you. Let’s talk a little bit more about how to get a realistic picture of the countries you’re considering studying in. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which country is the best for you, but you’ll want to start by considering the following.
1. Best schools for you
It’s easy to look up what countries have the best colleges in the world, but the more important question is, what countries have the best schools for YOU and your specific area of study? If you are pursuing an engineering degree, what countries have schools that specialize in engineering programs? What is the school's reputation, not only in your country, but in the school’s country? GoAbroad.com and Times Higher Education have useful search tool to compare schools, and rank majors.
2. Competitiveness of Admission
This will vary more from school to school than country to country, and will be something we will talk a lot more in future posts, but it’s important to have realistic expectations when considering schools.
What are the general admission requirements? Do you need a certain TOEFL score, SATs, GREs, IELTS, or something totally different? If you already have a score, or have been studying for a specific test, then most likely you should consider countries that accept that test first.
3. Culture
Aside from a good educational experience, what kind of culture do you want to experience? Think about what country fits your personality, your interests, hobbies, and even your weather preferences. Are you looking for a school that is in a city completely different from yours, or would you like to find a place that has some familiar comforts for when you’re feeling homesick?
Each country is so different that it could take you years to research these questions but this guide about different countries cultures is a good start! Take a look at it and tell us if you agree with what it says about your country!
4. Distance from home
Traveling for daysssss
I’ve had some students who have traveled more than 24 hours from Asia to get to their new school, while others just take a 3-hour flight down from Canada!
Does the thought of traveling all that way to your new school excite you? Or would you prefer someplace that’s closer? Do you plan to travel home for for the holidays? Do your parents hope to come visit? How much are plane tickets? Here’s a fun website that quickly shows you the flight times from one country to another!
5. Price
Budgeting is kind of awful, but necessary!
For most of us, price will play a big factor in this important decision. You’ll definitely want to check on the tuition prices and living expenses in the specific country. What is the exchange rate? Does this specific country offer scholarships or financial aid for international students? GoAbroad.com and Business Insider are just some of many helpful resources for researching the costs of studying abroad, but we’ll also discuss this more here!
6. Visa Requirements
Visas: what a headache!
It’s important to read about the visa requirements for citizens from you country. How hard is it to get a visa to this country? Will you need to travel to renew it periodically? Can you work legally there? NAFSA offers some great resources to start researching this, but look for future blog posts here for many more visa and immigration tips for studying in the US!
7. Popularity
Studying abroad is more popular than ever! That’s great, but what does this mean for you? Well, it means you can choose to study in a place with many people from your country, or you can do your research and study in a place where not many people from you country go.
For example, if there are 10,000 Spaniards studying in Boston, but only 500 studying in Melbourne, do you want to be 1 of 10,000 or 1 of 500? Do you want to be able to take a break, and speak your native language with people who understand your culture sometimes? Or do you want total immersion in English?
For some of us, knowing that we can immediately make friends with other students from our own country while abroad may be a comfort. For others, this may actually be a turnoff because they want to experience as many new things as possible. No pain, no gain, right!? Some students find that if they are surrounded by people speaking their own language, they won’t be motivated or pushed to learn English as quickly.
Take a look at the population of international students in various countries, and consider if you want to be studying with many students from the same or different country as you. This one is a very personal choice, and there’s no wrong answer!
Homework:
We know that this is a lot to consider, and it can be overwhelming at first. But just take it one step at a time! Here’s some homework for you: see if you can narrow down and prioritize the top 3 factors on this list and use the resources provided to get started on your decision process!
Here are some great resources for studying in various English speaking countries!
Hi! My name is Sarah and I have 8 years of experience working with international students studying in the United States, most recently at Berklee College of Music in Boston. I share your passion for adventure, and am currently traveling through Asia as part of the Ginseng English Anywhere tour! I’ll be writing many blog posts about studying abroad, so if you’ve decided to study abroad in the US, then this is the place is for you!
If have any questions about studying abroad, or are interested in scheduling an advising appointment with me, e-mail me at sarah@ginse.ng
Other free resources about studying abroad
6 Reasons to Study Abroad
6 Reasons to Study Abroad
Choosing to study abroad can be a scary but exciting decision! If you’re on the fence about studying in another country, let me see if I can persuade you. There are hundreds of reasons to study abroad, and below are just 6 of them to get you started!
1. Learn a new language
How did you guess that this is where I would start? 😉 I am going to assume that, if you found this blog through Ginseng English, you are considering studying in an English-speaking country. Learning English is a great idea because English is one of the most commonly spoken languages in the world, and the best language to use when traveling.
There is no better way to learn English quickly than to live in a place that speaks it! As they say, it’s sink or swim!
2. Live like a local
Probably the coolest thing about studying abroad is that this isn't vacation. This is your life now.
Live like a local, eat like a local
By actually living in a new place, not just visiting, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in your new home in a way that is impossible on a vacation. Try all the coffee shops until you find the best latte. Learn your favorite bartender’s name. Find the fastest route to school and the most scenic one, and enjoy being able to decide each morning which one to take. Before you know it, you’ll be walking down the street and realize that you don’t feel like a tourist anymore—you feel like a local.
And not only will you get a chance to feel at home in the place where your school is, but you’ll also get a chance to explore the country too! What’s cooler than a weekend trip to New York City or to the beaches of California!?
3. Make new friends
Traveling gives you and your friends a great excuse to take cheesy selfies!
The funny thing about studying abroad is that everyone in your program is in the same boat as you. They are all excited to make friends and explore their new city with you. You’ll make friends quicker than you ever have before. As you experience new things together, you’ll create friendships that will last a lifetime. Those moments in class where neither of you understands what the teacher is saying, or those school meals where the food doesn’t make sense to either of you, those moments will always stick with you.
Secondly, you’re not just making friends and connections with locals but also with people from around the world who share your interests! This means that next time you travel, you’ll have friends to visit all over the globe!
4. Improve career opportunities and make connections
This isn’t the most exciting reason, but studying abroad is great for your résumé! The fact that you took the risk to leave everything familiar behind and explore the unknown shows determination and perseverance. When you come back from studying abroad, you will have a much better understanding of other cultures, and a more global perspective. Potential employers love to see that you have worldly experience, which someone else may not have. Speaking English certainly doesn’t hurt your résumé either!
You will be meeting people from all over the world, and these connections may come in handy if you are looking for an international job in the future.
5. Try ALL the new food
You haven't lived until you've tried fresh New England lobster!
How did I not mention the food earlier!? Food is such an important part of each culture, and each new place comes with hundreds of new types of food to try! You may discover a new favorite—or your new least favorite!—that you didn’t even know existed!
Also, I know some people say that there’s no such thing as “American food” but have you tried lobster rolls in Boston, or the cheesesteaks in Philadelphia, or po' boys in New Orleans? America has some pretty amazing food...
And hey, if trying new food isn’t your thing, or if you’re really missing home one day, there’s a good chance that you can find some familiar food in your new city too. Most big cities have a Chinatown, a Little Italy, or grocery stores with an international food section where you can find just about anything. Whether you're from Brazil, Vietnam or Italy, rest assured, you can get your café com leite, your cà phê, or your cappuccino. 🤓 ☕️
6. Learn to rely on yourself
When you study abroad, you’ll learn what it feels like to truly be on your own. I’m not going to lie, there will be some scary moments. You might even cry (I know I did). But there will also be some really amazing moments when you learn exactly what you’re capable of and what you really want to get out of this experience. When was the last time you got to take full responsibility for yourself and decide exactly what you want to do today? What you want to see? Who you want to talk to? Or what you want to eat? This is your time! Live it up!
Now let's not get too sentimental, but while you’re out there figuring out what it’s to be on your own, you might also end up with a newfound appreciation for your friends, family and other small things from home. That sewing kit your mom made you pack? You’ll have no choice but to thank her when your favorite jeans rip. All those times you fought with your little brother? You might actually end up missing that dumb little face. And when you're stuck on a train full of people who don't speak your language, you might even feel nostalgic for that crowded bus you took every day at home.
Don't worry though! Living abroad will force you to find new ways to stay in touch with people back home, and may actually bring you closer to them. You might even discover the art of letter writing!
Hi! My name is Sarah and I have 8 years of experience working with international students studying in the United States, most recently at Berklee College of Music in Boston. I share your passion for adventure, and am currently traveling through Asia as part of the Ginseng English Anywhere tour! I’ll be writing many blog posts about studying abroad, so if you’ve decided to study abroad in the US, then this is the place is for you!
If have any questions about studying abroad, or are interested in scheduling an advising appointment with me, e-mail me at sarah@ginse.ng