College & Major Made Simple

FenDoDo guides smart school & major picks

1. Look Beyond Rankings:
Consider Location and Lifestyle

Besides prestige and rankings, the geographic location of a university is a key factor. Some students prefer a quiet suburban setting for focused study, while others enjoy the vibrancy and convenience of urban life. Since this is where you’ll spend the next four years, making sure you feel comfortable in your environment is essential to your well-being and success.

2. Transportation Matters in the U.S.

Transportation can be a challenge when studying in the U.S., especially in suburban areas. Some universities partner with local transit systems to offer free rides with a student ID, but these often don’t cover all the routes you’ll need for daily life.

If you have a driver’s license and sufficient budget, buying a car is a practical and cost-effective solution. Cars are generally cheaper in the U.S. than in many other countries, and the used car market is robust. You can even sell your car after graduation to recover some of the costs.

3. Choosing a Major:
Balance Interest, Career Goals, and Global Outlook

Choosing a major isn’t just about passion—it should also align with career aspirations and potential job markets. For example, majors like AI, data science, and biotech thrive in the U.S., but if you plan to return to your home country, ensure those fields are also growing there.

Most U.S. universities don’t require you to declare a major until sophomore year. This flexibility allows you to explore different subjects in your first year, helping you discover your interests and strengths. This exploration phase can reduce confusion later and save time and tuition in the long run.

 

🎓Student L’s Story: Choosing the Right Path

Student L faced a dilemma—pursue music, their passion, or follow their parents’ wish for a business degree. With limited time and a modest GPA, the choice of schools and majors would determine their future.

FenDoDo stepped in with a dual-path strategy:

• School Selection: Targeted universities strong in both music and business, ensuring flexibility.

• Major Planning: Crafted a plan where L could highlight music achievements while also presenting business readiness, giving admissions officers a holistic profile.

• Application Materials: Essays and resumes were tailored to show how L’s creativity in music complemented leadership and analytical skills in business.

This strategy paid off—L was admitted to 8 universities, including Berklee College of Music, and secured US$100k in scholarships. FenDoDo’s approach proved that with the right planning, students don’t have to choose between passion and practicality—they can achieve both.

Read Student L's Success Story