Top Party Schools

What is a party school? In recent times, there are several publications that have come out with lists of those colleges and universities that have a reputation of having a huge party culture on campus which basically means a heavy use of alcohol and drugs. The Princeton Review releases a list of top party schools every year. The Playboy is another publication that comes out with such a list but the latter releases this on an irregular basis. Most schools like to disassociate themselves from the tag of party schools. These lists have also been condemned by many organizations cited as being an impetus for dangerous behavior.

Top Party Schools in the Nation

Ranking of the best party schools in America is very arbitrary and is generally based on rankings as given by students. For example, the Princeton Review's list of top party schools is based on nation-wide survey conducted amongst as many as 122,000 students and generally based on categories like the usage of alcohol and drugs, the proliferation of Greek fraternity and sorority systems, and questions like how little time do people indulge in academics. Since the data received from these surveys are less than scientific it is impossible to practically state that one school is more of a party school when compared to another school. The Princeton Review has been releasing a list of the top 10 party schools in the country every year since 1992. This year's list of the best party schools to attend, according to the Princeton Review are given below.

Princeton Review's Top Party Schools
Rank	College
1	University of Georgia
2	Ohio University
3	Pennsylvania State University
4	West Virginia University
5	University of Mississippi
6	University of Texas
7	University of Florida
8	University of California-Santa Barbara
9	University of Iowa
10	DePauw University

Other colleges that feature on the list of the top party schools in the country released by Princeton Review are Florida State University, University of Alabama - Tuscaloosa, Indiana University - Bloomington, University of Colorado - Boulder, and University of Missouri. Another list of those colleges and universities that are known for their partying methods is released by Playboy magazine. But this list has been released only five times by Playboy; in the years 1987, 2002, 2006, 2009, and 2010. The latest list of top party schools as released by Playboy magazine is given in the table below.

Playboy's Top Party Schools
Rank	College
1	University of Texas at Austin
2	West Virginia University
3	University of Wisconsin-Madison
4	University of Miami
5	East Carolina University
6	Arizona State University
7	Rollins College
8	University of California-Santa Barbara
9	Plymouth State University
10	University of Iowa

These lists of top party schools have been often condemned by organization such as the America Medical Association as it fuels the notion of partying being an integral part of college life and academics. The organization has repeatedly asked Princeton Review to discontinue the publication of this list. Also the rankings in itself have been often questioned due to the lack of any scientific analysis of the data acquired. Based only on surveys of a sample size of students, it is not a truthful or accurate depiction of life at a certain college. There have also been concerns raised about how such lists influence the decision making process of the choice of a college. Most college administrations go out of their way to disassociate themselves from such lists. These lists of top party schools, after all, are in no way a clear indication of the academic or overall standing of a university or college. While choosing a college for further education, it is important that you take into consideration the academic courses that the college offers you.

Best Universities in South America

South America or Latin America as it's popularly known to many of us is the southern continent of the Americas. It's situated in the western hemisphere but it's major part comes in the southern hemisphere. On the west, it's surrounded by the Pacific ocean; North America and Atlantic ocean borders the Latin world from the east and the north. The Caribbean sea lies to the northwest of South America. With a rich and varied location, South America also has some of the best universities in the world. As more and more countries in South America are progressing towards economic progression, more and more students are coming from all the world to study in some of the best universities in South America.

Best Universities in South America

As prices of education keep rising, it's becoming more and more difficult for students to get admission in colleges and universities. Not everyone is lucky enough to get admission in Harvard or Cambridge, so, talented yet unfortunate students keep hunting for the best universities in the world, but they get nothing. If you're one of those students who are on a lookout for good education and training, I suggest you have a look at some of the best universities in South America. I know there are many people who still feel that Latin America is a land of conflicts, but that's the thing of the past. Today, the countries of Latin America are considered as top vacation spots and one of the best places for education too.

Research University in South America
Majority of the students have a special interest in doing things their own way. They like to research, understand and then reach to a conclusion. So for students who would like to make their own mark in this world, I suggest you opt for the University of Sao Paulo. The university of Sao Paulo has been ranked as the best university of South America by the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU). In the list of top universities in the world, there are at least nine names from South America. The university of Sao Paulo has remained the best university of South America since 2003. In the list of "Top 500 universities of the World", 6 were from Brazil, 2 are in Chile and 1 is located in Argentina.

The University of Sao Paulo (USP) is one of the best public universities for students interested in making their career in research. The USP was started in 1934 and has 7 campuses, out of which 4 are located in Sao Paulo itself. It also offers various graduate and undergraduate programs for students.

College Education in Peru
Education in Peru is under the control and jurisdiction of Ministry of Education. Education is compulsory and free in public schools for initial, primary and secondary levels. Education is compulsory and also free for students who have good academic performance. According to latest educational reports, world bodies like UNESCO, World Bank and The Inter-American Development bank have stated that Peru has the best education system in Latin America. Education in Peru begins from age 3 for better development, then it goes to primary school, then secondary, then higher and then to the university level.

List of South American Universities

Now after saying so much about this great continent, it's time to list out the best universities in South America. Here are the names,

    Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México
    Universidade de São Paulo
    Universidad de Chile
    Universidad de Buenos Aires
    Tecnológico de Monterrey
    Universidad Nacional de Colombia
    Universidade Estadual de Campinas
    Pontificia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro
    Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
    Universidade de Brasília
    Universidad de Costa Rica
    Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana
    Tecnológico de Monterrey
    Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul
    Universidade Federal Fluminense
    Universidad de Guadalajara
    Universidade de Brasília
    Universidad de Puerto Rico
    Universidad Autónoma de Puebla

So these were some of the best universities in South America. Most of them have also ranked as some of the best universities in the world by the ARWU. For more information on the admission procedures of these universities, you can visit their websites and get in touch with their help desk.

News Flash: College Students Not Really Learning Too Much

If you’ve ever taken the time to wander around the typical college campus on a Friday night – or even a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Weekend night for that matter – you likely already know that the most popular things to do in college are drink, do drugs, engage in sexual congress and otherwise wile away the hours in non-academic and unproductive pursuits. A new study, however, points out officially that college students are not actually learning very much in school. The study, which tracked 2,300 undergraduates, found that 45% of them showed no real improvement in various important measures of critical thinking, reasoning and writing abilities.

As it turns out, American universities and colleges also appear to be dumbing down the curriculum to meet the specific "needs" (if you will) of students. Half of the students in the study did not take a course that required 20 pages of writing or more during the prior semester of their studies. The findings of this particular study are presented in a new book titled "Academically Adrift: Limited Learning on College Campuses." The study was put together by a pair of sociologists, who have a knack for studying the obvious. Still, the work produced by Richard Arum and Josipa Roksa does shed light on what most must suspect already.

Noted David Paris, the president of the New Leadership Alliance for Student Learning and Accountability, "The great thing, if you can call it that, is that it’s going to spark a dialogue and focus on the actual learning issue. What kind of intellectual growth are we seeing in college?"

Free Study Abroad Scholarship Programs for International Students in Europe

Some study abroad programs can be studied for free in some European universities. Europe has a good number of study abroad programs for international students compared to other parts of the world. Recent survey has shown that the European continent consists of people from all nooks and crannies of the world. Majority of these foreigners in Europe are Africans and Asians. Most of these foreign residents in Europe are there through either any of the following:

1. Study abroad scholarship programs
2. Tuition free universities for international students

Presently, the only part of the world where tuition free universities for international students can be found is in Europe. This is why so many Aliens are there on study purposes. Majority of the world populace are yearning for free education, so it shouldn't be a surprise that lots of foreigners can be found in Europe today.

Some European countries have recently imposed school fees on prospective applicants to their universities, such as Sweden. This has indeed decreased the number of free tuition universities in Europe.

In terms of free study abroad scholarship programs, they still exist in most developed countries of the world such as USA, but the fact remains that these study abroad scholarship programs are not meant for everybody. Also, some strict conditions apply before one is given a chance. Today, most free tuition universities in USA are meant for the citizens or in some cases, permanent residents also. USA is only given as instance here but same applies to most other developed countries. With this, it can be judged that Europe remains the only continent where one can enjoy free education as a foreigner.

A Semester Abroad in the United States

Travelling to a foreign country to study is an exciting and rewarding experience, especially if you choose to go to the United States. The US boasts some of the best colleges and universities in the world because professors from all over the globe can be found in their classrooms, laboratories, theaters, and concert halls. However, if you decide to study at a US institution of higher education, it is important to prepare well in advance, even if you are only there for a few short weeks or an entire semester. It is important to understand student visas, local laws, and insurance.

Student visas are required for foreign students to study in the United States. In order to obtain a student visa, you must first be accepted into a United States school. The college or university that accepted you will provide the proper documents necessary to apply for a student visa. As soon as you receive these forms, fill them out and send them back as soon as possible. The earlier, the better! You can learn more about the process and requirements for applying for a student visa here: US Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs.

Before going to the United States, learn the law. Even though you are not a citizen, you are still required to abide by the laws that govern the United States. For instance, if you live in a country that does not have a minimum drinking age, you should know that the US does not allow anyone under the age of 21 to buy or consume alcohol, and you cannot serve alcohol to anyone under 21 years old. Also, there is a minimum age for buying cigarettes (19 years old). It is important to also find out the local laws specific to the city and state where you will be studying. Some laws are unique to the area where you will be living.

You are not allowed to enroll for classes in any United States school without proof of insurance. Applying for International Student Insurance USA costs less than applying for the insurance provided by the college or university you will be attending. You can find information on International Student Insurance USA on the web.

It is wise to obtain student travel insurance. In the event that you get sick or injured while in the United States, student travel insurance can reduce the cost of medical bills. Also, if you need to cancel your trip, you can apply for insurance that covers up to a certain amount of the trip, so that you do not lose all of your money if you no longer can travel abroad for any reason (this is only for those who plan on being in the US for 30 days are less).

Those are just some tips for ensuring that you are well prepared for your study abroad. Another piece of advice: family members such as your mother or father should obtain current passports. In case of an emergency, they can travel to the United States as quickly as possible if they have current passports. Also, understand the currency rates and how your country’s money measures up to the US dollar. Find out what kind of fees credit cards may hold for exchanging currency. It is also extremely important to know how to protect yourself and your possessions. For instance, never travel alone at night, and have a safe to keep expensive items or important documents such as your passport and cash.

Above all, have fun! By choosing to study abroad in the United States, you have given yourself the opportunity to explore a whole new world, to learn the American culture, and to experience exactly why so many students like you choose the United States as their study abroad location.

A Student’s Perspective of Studying Abroad

If you are thinking about going to a foreign country to study for a semester, you should talk to other students to get their personal perspective. Nothing is better than learning from students who have experienced the dos and don’ts of studying in another country. Kristin Weinstein, a recent graduate of William Paterson University in Wayne, NJ, studied abroad in Spain in the summer of 2008. She shares her experience and advice for anyone considering studying abroad.

What concerns did you and/or your parents might have had prior to you going abroad?

Kristin: Mostly figuring out the exchange rate and figuring out the best way to bring my money with me. Other concerns were cell phones, whether I should bring my own and get an international plan, or get calling cards and an international phone to call from.

What kinds of documents are necessary in order to study in another country? Was it mandatory to purchase international student health insurance or international student travel insurance?

Kristin: It's necessary to have your passport and a copy of your birth certificate. The travel and health insurance was included in the study abroad costs.

What was your favorite part of being abroad?

Kristin: My favorite part was all of the side trips we took. I got to see so many parts of Spain, and experience old culture versus modern culture. Having a guide who helped us around was extremely helpful.

What advice do you have for students who are interested in studying abroad?

Kristin: Definitely do it! You'll experience things you never thought possible. Be totally open minded and love every second of it. I wanted to move to Spain by the time my trip was over.

Kristin’s parents had the typical concerns of any parent whose child wants to study in a foreign country. Money and currency exchange rates, and how to keep in contact while away should be discussed and planned out in advance. Before Kristin went to Spain, she and her parents decided that she would bring her wireless cell phone and set up an international plan. However, Kristin realized that it was not the best idea. "I should have bought an international phone and used a calling card, she says, "[because] it was very expensive!"

Plan out your budget before you go. Save money or work to earn cash you could use for trips on the side that are not included in your study abroad program. Even though programs may include trips, you might want to travel to other places. Make sure you have enough money to do as much as possible because your opportunity to go abroad may be once in a lifetime.

Study abroad programs vary depending on the program you choose. International student health insurance or international travel insurance may not be included in your program costs the way they were included in Kristin’s. Even if they are not included, most programs require students to have one or the other, possibly both. Do research in advance. Read any pamphlets or letters regarding the details of your program. Ask questions. Organize important documents such as your passport and a copy of your birth certificate. Find out the deadlines for certain documents to be turned in so that there are no delays or problems during the application process. And, remember what Kristin said: when you finally reach your destination abroad, be totally open minded and love every second of it!

Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student

Foreign exchange student programs are those where students from a particular country travel to another to learn about the life and culture of the foreign country. These foreign students are welcomed by host families who become the foreign exchange student's family during his or her stay in the country. Many people volunteer in hosting a foreign exchange student for different reasons. Some do this because the government of certain countries offer tax reduction for the year they keep a foreign student in their house and also because they and their kids get new exposure of knowing a new person from a different part of the world, thus promoting intercultural communication.

For the foreign exchange student coming to a new country and living with people he/she does not know can be a little difficult and they may take time to adjust. In the same way, if you are the host family you would also require some time to get to know and get used to a new person in your house. Having a foreign exchange student at your home means adopting him/her. You are like the foster parents of the student and have to look at him/her as you would do with your own kids.

Selecting a Foreign Exchange Student
There are various organizations which handle placement of foreign exchange students. However, one must do a thorough check of the organizations because several of them cannot be relied on completely. The Rotary Youth Exchange, The Youth for Understanding Foundation, etc are some of the reliable institutions that have been conducting foreign exchange student programs for many years. Once you choose the organization, you would have to select a foreign student who you think would suit your home and family. It is important for you to go through various student profiles before zeroing on the student you would like to host.

Finances
One very important thing you have to remember before you host a foreign exchange student is that you have to check your financial status. Though foreign exchange students have funds and medical insurance policies, as a host family you would have to spend extra money on food, family trips, etc. So, if you are hard on money, it would be better if you drop the idea of hosting a foreign exchange student.

Communicating with the Student
Before the student comes to your home, try to know more about him/her. Most of the foreign exchange programs involve high school students and so most likely you would have a teenager at your home. You can contact the student through emails or the telephone to know more about his/her tastes, likes, dislikes, etc. This kind of communication would help you as well as the exchange student to be comfortable with each other quickly.

Part of the Family
Once the student reaches your home, the most important thing for you is to make him/her comfortable. The student must understand that he/she is not a guest in the house, but one among the family members and should behave in that way. You have to make him/her understand that he/she would have to follow the same rules that your children follow and also would enjoy the privileges that they enjoy.

Clashes between Your Children and the Student
People decide to host foreign exchange students because they would like their children to meet different people and develop new friendships. However, it is not necessary for this to happen. There may be clashes between your children and the exchange student. You must be prepared for such things and also to solve problems if such a situation arises.

Emotional Support
As you give them space to live in your house, you also have to provide your foreign exchange student with your emotional support. There can be language and cultural issues, and you would have to help the students in adapting to the new environment.

The experience of hosting a foreign exchange student can be different for different people. However, it is an enriching experience where you would be able to interact with young minds of a culture different from your own. You may also be able to form a long lasting relationship with your foreign exchange student.