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Which Mechanical Engineering Universities Are the Best?

There is a huge list of mechanical engineering universities, but not all of them provide students with the best learning opportunities. In order to make your education worth it, you’ll want to pick a university that suits all your needs. Engineering is an important career field, and takes huge amounts of guidance and effort to become a successful engineer. If you are wondering what mechanical engineering universities to attend, here are the best choices you must consider. 

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

MIT was founded back in 1861 and has expanded into a huge community of engineers and creatives. Their motto, “Mind and Hand” shows that they value the importance of creators and their ideas. The primary theme of MIT is innovation, which makes it one of the best mechanical engineering universities. As an inspiring engineer, you want to attend a school that promotes the celebration of your ideas and work. MIT doesn’t only have one sector, their education is broken down into 5 separate categories: architecture, engineering, humanities/social sciences/arts, management, and science. The diverse education offered by MIT opens more opportunities for aspiring engineers. If you also love sports as well as mechanical engineering, MIT has one of the greatest post-secondary athletic programs. MIT also has a well-loved music and arts culture as well. Overall, MIT is a perfect fit for you if you want to branch out into a range of courses and experiences. “Although MIT is known for its mechanical engineering programs, it doesn’t just focus on engineering alone. Its flexible options prevent students from feeling stuck in a career field they may not enjoy down the road,” declares Mona Bennett, educational blogger at Writinity and Draft beyond. 

Stanford University

Though it’s a pain to get into Stanford, it’s still worth applying to. It has a well-developed school of engineering that most future engineers would dream of getting into. Stanford’s top goal when it comes to accepting students into their engineering program is creating a diverse environment. Not many universities want to prioritize transforming their school into a culturally diverse place, providing people of all backgrounds with valuable opportunities. This is what makes Stanford one of the best universities when it comes to mechanical engineering. There are also multiple types of engineering degrees you can get at Stanford. There are combinations of mechanical engineering with other domains of the field. Stanford’s programs are welcoming, advanced, and have led many students into wonderful mechanical engineering positions. 

University of Oxford

Oxford is known for its in-depth, specialized programs. This university has a top-quality engineering science department. Along with the quality of mechanical engineering programs at Oxford, their reputation regarding engineering research is also notable. Oxford’s credibility is what makes it one of the top engineering schools. There is a four-year course that leads students to a degree in Master of Engineering. The program covers a multitude of engineering categories such as biomedical, civil, mechanical, and electrical. This further expands your knowledge of other parts of engineering, so that you can reach greater expertise in your field of work. “Oxford University is aware of the importance of upcoming engineers. This is why they educate students on all six branches of engineering,” justifies Ken Brown, writer at Research papers UK.

University of California (Berkeley) 

UC Berkeley has one of the top mechanical engineering programs in the world. This university takes a hands-on approach in its engineering program. Their research laboratories are like no other, and students get to experience incredible workshops. The mechanical engineering program shines a light on modern adaptations. The relevance of modern theories and mechanical principles is crucial. Berkeley’s mechanical engineering program sticks to the basics while also honing in on new discoveries. Berkeley has a list of unique laboratories where students have the chance to answer unsolved inquiries in the mechanical field. Since you get to have constant interaction with mechanical engineering and materials, Berkeley is one of the best engineering schools. This university is a wonderful choice because you can get top tier experience while completing your courses.

These four schools have established, well known, and diverse mechanical engineering programs. All of them have a unique twist on their approaches to mechanical engineering and education. 

Business analyst and writer Jenny Williams works at Homework writing service and Lucky Assignments Liverpool. She also writes for Gum Essays service as well. 

Study in the US – To Go or Not to Go?

Your diligence and hard work have paid off. You’ve gone through the selection process and made your decision to study in the U.S. You have your papers, your packing list, your adventure in front of you, and you are ready to go. Or are you? Perhaps the realization is beginning to sink in that you will be leaving your family support system, your community, your friends, indeed, your whole way of life. You ask the question, study in the US – to go or not to go?

You may be going off to high school, where you will be looked after to some degree by either a host family, a dorm parent or another supervisor. Or you are going to college, where you really are pretty much on your own except for the assistance you can find through your deans, residential advisors, or international students’ office. In either scenario, it can feel intimidating.

You are not alone. The U.S. is currently home to close to over one million international students studying at all different levels from secondary education (high school) to university and beyond (graduate and post-graduate degrees), and that number is going up every year. U.S. schools and institutions have come to appreciate the internationalism, diversity, broad worldview, and varied insights and experiences you bring to their campuses. This time will be one of growth and with that come growing pains. But armed with the right attitude and preparation, you will be well on your way to adjustment.

Is this really happening?

While you may have been distracted and swept up with the business of applications, interviews, school selection, and improving your English skills in order to bring this study abroad dream to fruition, you may now be wondering if this is really happening. A lot of thought and planning has gone into making the decision to further your education and language skills in the United States. You’ve done so much research to determine which school best suits you and will help you meet your educational ambitions and goals. You’ve worked so hard on applications, essays, and interviews. You’ve contemplated what type of living arrangements you would most enjoy.

Feeling anxious or worried that you will not be up to the challenge?

After everything you have been through during the selection process, you can be confident you can manage it. All the people who wrote recommendations believe in you. The people who read through your application and/or interviewed you obviously feel you are capable of succeeding in this transition or they would not have selected you.

Try to manage your anxiety with self-soothing and affirmative thoughts.

One way to do this is just before falling asleep at night. Reflect on a difficult experience that you managed successfully and repeat a mantra with statements such as: “I am…

  • hardworking and smart
  • capable of succeeding
  • confident and capable
  • ready to leave.”

Attitude

You may have heard the phrase, “Attitude is everything”. In the case of a major life transition, this especially rings true. Having the right attitude is the key to unlocking the adventure to be just that – an adventure – rather than a chore, an obligation, or a duty. However, some of you may be making this international relocation under duress. Maybe it wasn’t your choice to study in the U.S. and perhaps you have already decided that you are not going to buy into it or work to make it a successful venture.

I can tell you from the experience of others that this would be a huge mistake and you would only be hurting yourself. It would be a waste of time, money, and energy to let this incredible opportunity slip away.

Actually, it takes a lot of energy to work at being miserable all the time. It doesn’t take much to begin enjoying certain aspects of this adventure. Look for the good, the fun, and the positive in everything and soon you will find life isn’t so bad in this new place. In the U.S. it is called, “Having an attitude adjustment.”

Adjusting expectations

Sometimes people are disappointed right away when things don’t quite meet their expectations. Keep an open mind about what your experiences will be like and try not to be disappointed if things end up being very different from what you had envisioned. Remember that all these experiences are serving to grow you. 

Special thanks to Tina L. Quick for providing us with this article. Tina is the author of two extraordinary books dedicated to international students going to study in America: Survive and Thrive: The International Student’s Guide to Succeeding in the U.S. and The Global Nomad’s Guide to University Transition. 

Top 5 Government Funded Scholarships for International Students

For many international students, government funding in the form of grants, bursaries and scholarships is the only way they can pursue their dream of studying abroad. So before you apply to your dream university overseas, find out what types of funding are available to you. Here are our top 5 government-funded scholarships for international students 2021/22.

Chevening Scholarships (UK)

Starting in 1983, Chevening has provided scholarships and fellowships to more than 50,000 people from around the world. Their aim is to provide outstanding scholars with the opportunity to study a one-year masters degree qualification at any UK university. 

What’s included?

  • Payment of tuition fees
  • Economy travel (flights) to and from your country of residence 
  • An arrival allowance
  • The cost of an entry clearance (visa) application 
  • A departure allowance
  • A contribution of up to £75 for TB testing, where is required
  • A travel top-up allowance
  • A monthly personal living allowance (stipend) to cover accommodation and living expenses. The monthly stipend will depend on whether you are studying inside or outside London. These rates are subject to annual review.

Applications open in August and close in November each year. If successful, you will be asked to attend an interview in June and be given an offer in July. Studies will start soon after in September/ October. Find out more.

Australia Awards Scholarships

Australia is one of the best destinations for international students. It has a high standard of higher education, multicultural and welcoming student communities and some of the “most liveable” cities in the world (The Global Liveability Index 2021). 

Each year, Australia Awards Scholarships provides students from participating countries with full-time undergraduate and postgraduate study opportunities. To be eligible, you must live in Asia, the Pacific, Africa or the Middle East. A full list of participating countries can be found here.

What’s included?

  • Full tuition fees
  • Return air travel to and from Australia
  • Contribution towards accommodation expenses, textbooks and study materials
  • Contribution to Living Expenses (CLE) 
  • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
  • Pre-course English (PCE) fees

Application opening and closing dates depend on your country of residence. Find a full list here. Find out more.

Fulbright Foreign Students Program (USA)

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program provides international students with the opportunity to study at a master’s or PhD level in America. Approximately 4,000 students receive these scholarships each year. Like other government-funded scholarships, Fulbright scholars are required to return to their home country after studying. Find out more.

Applications are processed by bi-nation Fulbright Commissions or U.S Embassies so foreign students must apply through the Embassies in their home countries. A full list of these countries and bodies can be found here

What’s included?

  • Tuition fees 
  • Living expenses 
  • Return economy flights 
  • Health insurance 

Erasmus Mundus Scholarships (EU)

The Erasmus Programme is an international student exchange programme, established in 1987. It’s a well known and supported scheme funded by the European Union. There are a wide range of opportunities available with Erasmus, including:

Each program has a different set of key selection criteria which are available in the Erasmus+ Programme Guide. Make sure you read through the guide carefully and allow enough time to prepare your application. 

What’s included?

  • Full tuition fees 
  • Monthly stipend for living expenses 
  • Participant costs 
  • Travel 
  • Health insurance  

Open and close dates for applications depend on each program. Find out more.

New Zealand Aid Programme Scholarships

New Zealand offers a wide range of scholarships for international students looking to study at bachelors, masters or PhD level. These scholarships are fully-funded and for students living in commonwealth countries.

These scholarships give international students a chance to improve their knowledge and help their country of origin to grow its talents. Priority will be given to students looking to study subjects that are most relevant to the developmental needs of their home country. 

What’s included?

  • Full tuition fees and a living allowance (NZ$491 per week)
  • An establishment allowance (NZ$3000)
  • Medical insurance when you are in New Zealand
  • Travel to and from your own country
  • Travel insurance

Applications close in Feb/March each year. Find out more.

A Guide to Student Visas for America

America is one of the most popular study destinations for international students, but its Visa process can be difficult to navigate. Fortunately, we are here to help clear things up and make your transition to America a little bit easier!

Please note: it is extremely crucial that you apply for your visa well in advance of the date your studies begin. If possible, apply three months before you plan to travel to the USA!

The USA issues different types of visas to students:

A full-time student would receive an F-1 or M-1 visa.

Your spouse and children would receive F-2 or M-2 visas.

An Exchange Visitor would receive a J-1 visa. Exchange Visitors come to the USA for consultation, training, research or teaching, or for an approved Au Pair or temporary work position.

Last Year 362,896 F-1 Student visas were issued and there are currently 1,169,464 million students in the United States on F and M visas!

Your school or university will send you a form confirming that you have been accepted at an institution authorised by the U.S. Citizenship and Naturalization Service (USCIS) to enrol non-immigrant students (the I-20 for an F-1 visa or the DS-2019 for a J-1 visa.) You will read and sign this form. You will then need to make an appointment for a visa interview and to pay some required fees. Under a revision in the regulations, Student Visas can be issued up to 120 days before the date on your form I-20.

Each U.S. Embassy has a website providing instructions on how to make an appointment for a visa interview and other information on the visa application process. The website for the Embassy in your country can be located at: http://www.usembassy.gov/

“Intent to Return”

Most student and exchange visitor visa applications are approved. The most common reason for a student or exchange visitor application to be denied is that the person applying for the visa has not proven to the Visa Officer that they will return to their country when they complete their studies in the U.S.A. This rule is called Section 214.b.

To determine your “intent to return” home, the visa officer will ask you a series of questions about your connections to your home country and about your study plans.

Tips for Your Visa Interview

  • Wear a business suit or dress
  • Be specific when you answer questions
  • Bring bank statements or proof of employment
  • Provide details of your study plans
  • Stay calm and be professional
  • Tell the truth!

Useful Links

Guide to USA Residency Programs for Nursing Graduates

Graduating from nursing is one of the most beautiful achievements for which every grad feels pride and trepidation at the same time. You feel happy that now you are going to put all that knowledge into a life-saving job. But, on the other hand, it feels scary about how to go about it. Transforming from a grade to a full-time nurse may not be easy, but you find that this is the part where the Nurse Residency Program comes in to facilitate easy transformation when it comes to Reference and Education.

Residency programs for nurses transform a grad to a skilled nurse who can comfortably work without fear. Finding such support requires you to seek employment in health facilities that offer these programs. The program can run for several months or last for a whole year depending on the facility regulations. It is the time when you gain the expertise you need to be working as a full-time nurse. Grads are trained depending on the current nurse requirements while also geared to attain full employment where you can now participate in classes, meeting with superiors and peers while working in a collaborative environment. There are tons of residency programs in the US as well as the world.

What are some good USA Residency Programs?

The Johns Hopkins University of Baltimore

They have a great training program for grams and teach them how to become leading contributors to medicine as well as excellent doctors with extraordinary diagnostics and caregiving skills.

Massachusettes General Hospital in Boston

This program has an intensive training program and prepares grad students for different careers in medicine.

The University of California in San Fransisco

What makes this program special is that they focus mainly on training the grads to become attentive and meet the needs of poor people while honing their skills to become leaders in academic medicine, public health, and clinical practice.

How residency programs work

The Residency Program does not operate like a nursing school where you only come into practice. The program has a regular schedule where you are paid depending on your shift to all the new nurses who are hired to work together. The program runs on policies set by the hospital where the new nurses follow a particular protocol which is crafted to empower the new members to work, learn their skills, and also learn all the skills needed to handle patients.

You will take the task of preparing your survey on patients where you will be required to collect data on your study to patients, nurses, policies, and also from other hospitals. The administrators of the institution will need to examine whether you are now a qualified nurse or if you need more training. The program works differently in every health faculty where the range varies from 4-8 a week. No matter the schedule, you know that you are part of the team and will gain the skills required as a nurse.

The benefits of Residency Programs

Residency programs help Nursing graduates to eliminate the feeling of being a newbie in the health industry. It offers a positive and supportive atmosphere that you need when establishing your first job. You have the opportunity to gain experience through established programs that have the actual hospital setting, thus helping you to win the confidence where most people find it a difficult transition.

Grads have the opportunity to mentor relationships assisted by established nurses to fully join the industry through the provision of advice and guidance as well as through multiple residency program tips offered by your peers who have already taken that journey. You will learn how to start your job by bringing all the items together, getting ready, communication and better cohesion and the major part of handling patients with different conditions.

Conclusion

The importance of the Residency Programs to the nurses is immense, as the grad gain all the skills that they would not have attained while in school. It helps them in building coherence, confidence, teamwork and handling patients in the best way possible. The program plays a significant impact on preparing professionals in the nursing industry where it should be supported and given a priority. The program prepares experienced nurses who can comfortably work in a positive working environment and also nurture to gain the best experience.

Scholarships for International Students Planning to Study in the USA

The USA is a top study destination for international students, but it’s no secret that studying in America can be expensive. Here are some top scholarships for international students planning to study in the USA. Take a look and make some steps towards pursuing your own American dream.

#YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarships

#YouAreWelcomeHere scholarships are for international students planning on studying at an undergraduate or bachelor’s level in the USA. You can find a list of participating colleges here. To be in with a chance, apply for the scholarship with your college application, and before the scholarship deadline. Reach out to the individual participating institutions for more information.

Study a Bachelors in the US Scholarship

educations.com are offering a $5,000 scholarship to international students that want to study for a bachelor’s degree in the US. Once you have applied to a university or college in America, you can apply for the scholarship.

Berkley College International Student Scholarships

Berkeley College international student scholarships are awarded based on both financial need and past academic history. To receive consideration, your scholarship application must be submitted along with your application for admission. Scholarship awards are non-transferable and must be used for the quarter and for the location for which you are accepted. Any changes are subject to further review. Scholarship recipients must maintain a minimum Grade Point Average of 3.0 and full-time degree status.

College Week Live

If you’re looking for financial help towards your place at College, enter College Week Live’s Monthly Scholarship giveaway. One lucky winner is awarded a $1,000 scholarship towards their college tuition every month. You’ve got to be in it to win it.

To read our essential guide to studying in the USA, click here.

To read about becoming a Lawyer in the USA, click here.

How To Become A Lawyer in the USA

The US is the epicentre of Law in the world. It boasts some of the very best Law schools, often referenced in movies and TV shows as they are so iconic. Law schools in the US are part of public or private universities that grant Juris Doctor (J.D.) degrees. The J.D. program typically lasts three years for full-time students and four years for part-time students. The first year of law school is generally considered to be the most difficult because of the core classes, exams, and the Socrates method. Instead of studying Law straight out of college/sixth form, you can only study Law in America once you have already completed a degree. This could be Law, but it could also be any degree.

Top 10 Law Schools in the U.S.

According to U.S. News, here are the top 10 law schools in the USA.

  1. Yale University
  2. Stanford University
  3. Harvard University
  4. Columbia University
  5. University of Chicago
  6. New York University
  7. University of Pennsylvania (Carey)
  8. University of Virginia
  9. University of California – Berkeley
  10. Duke University

US Law School Requirements

  • To study Law in the USA you must first complete a Bachelor’s degree. It can be related to Law studies, but that is not mandatory. Law schools accept all candidates that finished a Bachelor’s degree, regardless of their former fields of study.
  • Take the LSAT – an official exam that tests your critical and analytical abilities – necessary for further pursuing a Law degree.
  • How good is your English? Some universities in America will require you to prove your language skills with an exam like TOEFL.
  • If you’re an international student, you’ll also require a student visa to study in the U.S.

Curriculum

During the three or four years of studying Law, you will have classes that will cover topics such as administrative law, legal theory, analytical legal methods, bankruptcy, business law and ethics, civil rights, constitutional law and much more.

Between the 2nd and the 3rd year, most local and international students in the United States engage in an internship program in order to gain practical experience that can sometimes lead to a future job after graduation. Beginning with the 3rd year, you can choose elective courses tailored for the particular Law speciality that will define your future career.

Specialisations in Law in the United States include:

  • International Law
  • Public Law
  • Criminal Law
  • Business Law
  • Patent Law

American Law degrees can mean a comfortable life and stable finances. Even graduates of lower-ranked law schools are typically making six-figure incomes within 12 years after graduation. Graduates of higher-ranking schools typically earn more than $170,000!

USA – Essential Guide for International Students

General Information

Currency: United States Dollar (USD) – this is approx. 1.26USD to every 1GBP
National language: English
Geography: Made up of 50 states and various territories
Time in Capital City: GMT -4
Climate: the USA is so huge so there are frozen wastelands, scorching deserts, non-stop rain or perfect sun depending on where you go.
Population: 327 million

Annual Costs (approx.):

  • University Cost (USD): $24,914
  • Living Costs (USD): $11,658
  • Total Cost (USD): $36,564

Top Universities:

Click on the University name to be taken to their website.

  1. Princeton University, NJ
  2. Harvard University, MA
  3. Columbia University, NY
  4. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), MA
  5. The University of Chicago, IL
  6. Yale University, CT
  7. Stanford University, CA
  8. Duke University, NC
  9. The University of Pennsylvania, PA
  10. John Hopkins University, MD

Applying to Universities and Visas

Most universities in the US require foreign applicants to take an English as a second language test, such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), these are to be completed around a year before you study.

For all other universities, the application deadline is often in January – seven months before you intend to start university.

There are three types of visas for international students in the US: F1 for academic studies; J1 for practical training not available in your home country; and M1 for vocational studies.

Things You HAVE To Do:

  • Route 66 – the most famous and iconic road trip in the entire world. Route 66 takes around 2 weeks to do, including rests. It takes you from Chicago to LA, and you will see some amazing sites such as the painted desert and even a meteor crater!
  • Statue of Liberty – no trip to America would be complete without a trip to Lady Liberty herself. You can get a boat ride around the statue to see her in all of her glory.
  • Disneyland Florida – the most magical place on Earth, Disneyland does not disappoint. Fun for all the family, fun activities, and beautiful Floridian weather.
  • Hollywood sign – an absolute icon, the Hollywood sign is a must see. There is a beautiful hike you can go up to the sign, and you get an excellent view of tinsel town from the top.
  • Yellowstone National Park – or any of America’s national parks. They boast some of the most stunning scenery in the entire world. Gorgeous trails, amazing views, and endless wildlife.

Quick tips:

  • 911 is the emergency number in the US
  • Tipping is required and is seen as rude not to do it. 15-20% is the standard for tipping in restaurants.
  • Make sure you have health and travel insurance before your visit – health care costs are some of the highest in the world here.
  • The prices shown for items in shops are excluding the tax, so estimate that your item will cost 10% more than it appears
  • The US is one of only a few countries to still use the Imperial system. So, think of height in feet, distance in miles, the temperature in Fahrenheit, and weight in pounds

Useful Links

An Interview with a Food Scientist

Food scientist Rebeca Lopez-Garcia answers our questions about studying food science and what sort of a career it can lead to.

Why did you decide to study food science concentration toxicology at university, and why did you choose the USA as your study destination?

“I was originally an exchange student at the University of Arizona where I did some research in Fumonisin contamination of corn. I had some fascinating results and one professor invited me to come back as soon as I finished up my BS in Mexico to continue my research. Thus, I went back to the states and pursued graduate studies in Food Toxicology. My professor moved to Louisiana State University so I followed him. LSU had a PhD interdepartmental programme in Toxicology. I always liked science and food. I liked cooking since I was very young so food science made a lot of sense.”

What exactly is food science, and why do you think students should study this subject at college or university?

“Food science is the study of everything related to food and food processing. Students should choose to study food science because it is a great applied field of study. If you study food science, you have a lot of career options in the future that range from very basic science to applied engineering.”

Do you think your experience of living in a foreign country and absorbing other cultures has had a positive impact on your career successes? Why?

“Of course, I think travelling and experiencing other cultures has made a lot of difference in my life and my career. It has helped me put things in perspective and understand different ways of thinking. Also, living in the US and being very active in professional organisations such as IFT has given me all the contacts that have helped me shape my career. Living in the US made me really become bicultural and that has made a great difference in my business. Companies hire me for projects that involve working in both countries and I can do that seamlessly.”

Can you tell us a bit about your work with food companies in developing countries? For example, how did you start working in this area and how you have managed to help these countries?

“I have worked in many areas and different projects. With FAO I have had the opportunity to develop an Integrated Mycotoxin Management Plan for coffee producers in Ecuador so they can export their coffee without contamination problems. I helped manage a wheat contamination crisis in Uruguay and helped the country develop a National Action Plan to control mycotoxin contamination and avoid future crises. I have worked with the governments of Egypt and Panama to help their food industry become more competitive. Currently, I am working with the Dominican Republic to develop a National Food Inspection System. I also work with many multinational companies helping them develop suppliers and improve food safety. I still use my toxicology background to put together dossiers for regulatory approval of food additives and ingredients. Every day is different and very interesting.”

What do you think is special about the food science industry compared with other scientific industries?

“I agree it is very technical and creative but I think it is a great area because people always have to eat so it is a very stable industry and it gives you a great sense of purpose since nutrition is essential for good health. In addition, food and eating are very social so your work is present in everybody’s family events. You can really make a difference in this area.”

What are the different job prospects food science students have upon graduation?

“I think there are many options because you can work at different stages of production. From the field to food service there are many opportunities. You can work in a laboratory or in an office or in a production facility. It really depends on what you like and even in these tough times, I still get messages from companies looking for qualified individuals so I think the field is far from saturated.”

Finally, what aspects of this job do you love the most? Are there any examples of your work where you have felt you have made a difference?

“I love that I have to keep on studying and learning every day. I never ever get bored because every day I have a different challenge. As I mentioned before, working with producers and companies that really need help and watching them achieve a contract or produce safer products or start exporting is very rewarding. I have always stayed close to academia and have taught several classes in the last few years. I think teaching is one of the most rewarding jobs.”