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🎓 What:  Associate of Applied Science Degree in Farrier Science & Business 📍 Where:  Mesalands Community College, Tucumcari, New Mexico The horse industry supports 1.4 million jobs and contributes $39 billion in direct economic impact to the U.S. economy (Source: American Horse Council) Want a career that’s equal parts craftsmanship and equine care? Mesalands' Farrier Science program, offered in a small, diverse campus with world-class hands-on training, might just nail it. 🛠️ What You’ll Learn Get ready to jump straight into: Horsemanship: handling horses, trimming hooves, balancing conformation Horneyshing labs: forging, welding, and shoeing for standard, corrective, or therapeutic cases Anatomy & wellness: hoof pathologies, lameness physiology, equine limb anatomy Business essentials: accounting, marketing, and managing your own farrier practice Courses run sequentially over two years (or 15 weeks for the certificate), with small class sizes and expert faculty, including journeyman farriers like Eddy Mardis. 🌍 Why It’s Perfect for International Students Hands-on from day one —no theory-only programs here. Shorter certificate option  (as little as 15 weeks) if you're aiming for quick entry into the field. Global demand —trained farriers are needed in ranching, equine sports, and therapy worldwide. Supportive small college vibe —Mesalands serves around 1,700 students and is committed to diversity and inclusion. 💰 Cost Breakdown (2024–25 Estimates) For international students: Item Cost (USD) Tuition (61 credits) ~$7,076 (61 × $116/credit) Lab & course fees ~$360–800 (approx. $60/course) Total Program Cost Approx. $8,500–9,000 This includes the program’s multi-million-dollar indoor forging facility and full immersion training. Financial aid, internal scholarships, and grants are also available to qualified students. 📅 Key Dates & Admission Steps Fall 2025 Enrollment:  Rolling admission recommended six months in advance How to Apply: Complete online international application Submit academic transcripts (12 years of education) Provide TOEFL scores for English proficiency Show proof of financial resources Intake quiz/career assessment required 💼 Career Paths After Graduation Farrier science grads often go on to: Run mobile horseshoeing businesses Work in racehorse stables, ranches, and equine clinics Consult as hoof-care specialists or educators Work in therapeutic/training centers or equine therapy programs With credentials from associations like AFA or GPF, many gain recognition and premium rates. If you’re passionate about horses and ready for DIY learning, Mesalands' Farrier Science program delivers real training, global career pathways, and a skill set that’s rare and respected.

🎓 What:  Bachelor of Science in Cartography & Geographic Information Systems 📍 Where:  University of Wisconsin–Madison Maps aren’t just for explorers, they’re data-packed storytellers that save lives, steer cities, and track pandemics. UW–Madison’s Cartography & GIS major trains students to visualize, analyze, and deploy geospatial data like pros. 🔍 University of Wisconsin-Madison (Photo source: Destination Madison) 🛠 What You’ll Learn Core Tech Skills  – Dive into graphic design, web mapping, geocomputation, Python, and big-data spatial analytics. Lab-Based Learning  – Courses come with hands-on sessions using ArcPro, QGIS, and spatial database tools. Capstone Project  – In senior year, apply your skills to real-world challenges—think city planning, conservation mapping, or public health data visualization. 🌍 Prime for International Students 1 of 20 US universities with 7,000+ international peers from 116 countries  ensures strong global connections. STEM-designated major  = extended Optional Practical Training (OPT) stays, ideal for GIS roles in the US. 📅 Key Dates Fall 2026 Early Action Deadline:  Nov 1, 2025 Fall Regular Decision:  Jan 15, 2026 Spring Decision (Undergrad):  Oct 1, 2025 Graduate Cartography/GIS MSc Deadline:  June 2, 2025 (Fall entry); I-20 deadline: July 7, 2025 📈 Career Paths & Market Trends Demand for GIS pros is growing fast, up to 30% job growth  forecasted in mapping-related roles, with starting salaries from US $55K to US $90K+. Graduates step into roles as: GIS Analyst or Developer Urban Planner or Conservation Specialist Public Health Mapmaker Logistics Data Scientist If you're data-smart, visually creative, and love problem-solving, UW–Madison offers a world-class path with real tech, real impact, and real global connections.

If your idea of a classroom includes paddling the Outer Hebrides, skiing Mt. Hood, or climbing in Joshua Tree, SUNY Plattsburgh’s B.S. in Expeditionary Studies (EXP) might be your academic adventure. SUNY Plattsburgh campus (Photo source: SUNY Plattsburgh) 🎓 What Is It? Expeditionary Studies is one of the few U.S. undergraduate programs that blends outdoor leadership, environmental ethics, and advanced technical skills in climbing, paddling, and backcountry skiing. Students choose a primary concentration, climbing, paddlesports, or skiing, and a secondary, with hands-on courses like “Outdoor Living Skills,” “Wilderness First Responder,” and “Expedition Theory and Planning.” The program emphasizes experiential learning, with small class sizes and field-based instruction. Students engage in real-world expeditions, developing leadership and decision-making skills in dynamic environments. 🌍 Where You’ll Go Fieldwork is central to the program. Students have trekked 68 miles across Nepal, paddled the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, and led expeditions in Alaska. The program’s location between Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains provides immediate access to diverse terrains, enhancing the hands-on learning experience. 💼 Career Outcomes According to SUNY Plattsburgh, 90% of EXP graduates hold full-time or equivalent positions. Career paths include: Outdoor educators Climbing and skiing guides Paddlesports coaches Eco-tourism operators Park rangers Emergency medical technicians Military officers UX strategists School counselors Graduates have also pursued roles in environmental conservation and adventure-based counseling. 🌐 International Student Info SUNY Plattsburgh offers partial scholarships to all accepted international students, covering between 20–40% of the total cost of attendance. Estimated annual costs for international undergraduates: Tuition:  $16,980 Mandatory Fees:  $1,398 Health Insurance:  Approximately $2,606 Scholarships include the Global Diversity Award ($5,000) and the Campus Community Award ($5,000), among others. 📅 Key Dates Application Deadlines:  Rolling admissions Recommended Application Submission:  At least six months before intended start date Orientation for International Students:  Held in late August for fall semester entrants 🧭 Ready to Apply? For more information, visit the Expeditionary Studies program page . Whether you're aiming to become a professional guide, outdoor educator, or environmental advocate, SUNY Plattsburgh's Expeditionary Studies program offers a unique blend of academic rigor and real-world experience.

In a recent interview with Digital Journal , President Frank H. Wu of Queens College, CUNY, shared insights into his journey, leadership philosophy, and aspirations for the institution. Queens College, CUNY President Frank H. Wu (Photo source: Queens College, CUNY) 🌍 Embracing diversity and inclusion As the first Asian American president of Queens College, Wu brings a unique perspective to the role. His personal experiences as the son of immigrants resonate with the college's diverse student body. Wu emphasizes the importance of creating an inclusive environment where all students feel represented and supported. 💡 Navigating the digital age Wu acknowledges the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital age. He advocates for the thoughtful integration of technology in education, ensuring it serves as a tool to enhance learning rather than a distraction. Under his leadership, Queens College has embraced virtual platforms to maintain connectivity and continue delivering quality education. 🏛️ Commitment to academic excellence With a background that includes roles at UC Hastings, Wayne State University, and Howard University, Wu brings a wealth of experience to Queens College. He is dedicated to upholding the institution's tradition of academic rigor while adapting to contemporary educational needs. 🤝 Building community and resilience Wu's leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated his commitment to student welfare and institutional resilience. He emphasizes the importance of community engagement, transparency, and adaptability in overcoming challenges and fostering a supportive campus environment. President Wu's vision for Queens College is rooted in inclusivity, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to student success. His leadership continues to guide the institution toward a future that honors its rich history while embracing progress.

What’s changing at the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW)? In a recent interview with The Seahawk , Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Dr. Christine Reed Davis and former Provost Dr. James Winebrake shared how the university is evolving its approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) while prioritizing open dialogue and academic freedom. Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Dr. Christine Reed Davis (left) and former Provost Dr. James J. Winebrake (right) sitting in the Vice Chancellor’s office (Samantha Hill/The Seahawk). 🔄 From policy to practice: What 'institutional neutrality' means In April 2024, the UNC Board of Governors voted to shift DEI policies system-wide. UNCW responded by embracing “institutional neutrality”—a policy aimed at keeping the university itself neutral on political and social issues, while still encouraging individual expression. “Neutrality doesn’t mean silence,” says Dr. Winebrake. “Faculty are still empowered to teach, research, and discuss freely.” 🏛️ A new home for cultural centers UNCW’s cultural resource centers, including the Upperman African American Cultural Center, Mohin-Scholz LGBTQIA Resource Center, and the Asian Heritage Cultural Center, now operate under Campus Life. The move aims to integrate student services and enhance visibility within the broader student community. Dr. Davis emphasized the university’s ongoing commitment: “We are here to ensure that students continue to feel supported, represented, and heard.” 🎓 Students leading the way Student groups, including the Black Student Union (BSU), have been actively engaged in conversations around the changes. UNCW’s leadership acknowledged the value of student input and reaffirmed their intent to maintain inclusive programming and dialogue. 📢 Looking ahead With over 18,000 students and a growing international population, UNCW is focused on building a student-centered, inclusive environment—one rooted in support, academic freedom, and shared understanding.

🎓 What:  B.A. in Animal Behavior Studies 📍 Where:  Franklin & Marshall College, Lancaster, Pennsylvania 💡 Why It’s Unique:  Hands-on research with live animals, including primates, reptiles, and aquatic species Franklin & Marshall College (Photo source: F&M College) 🧠 What You’ll Learn At F&M, the Animal Behavior Studies major delves into the biological and social foundations of animal behavior. Students explore how these behaviors impact conservation, education, and environmental interactions. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing students to work directly in laboratories, the field, zoos, and international settings with various species, including aquatic invertebrates, fish, mammals, reptiles, and birds. 🐾 Facilities & Research F&M's Barshinger Life Sciences & Philosophy Building houses state-of-the-art teaching and research laboratories in animal behavior, behavioral ecology, and comparative psychology. The on-campus vivarium supports student-focused learning and scientific research, housing a variety of rodents, reptiles, birds, fish, invertebrates, and nonhuman primates. 🌍 Why It’s Great for International Students Global Exposure:  Study-abroad opportunities in countries like Ireland, Russia, New Zealand, and Australia. Research Opportunities:  Engage in original research projects that may lead to presentations at national and international conferences or co-authorship in journal publications. Supportive Community:  Join a diverse student body with access to dedicated faculty and staff. 💼 Career Outcomes Graduates have pursued careers as animal care technicians, wildlife rehabilitators, and researchers. For instance, Sara Dollen ’23 utilized her experience from F&M's vivarium to design an enrichment system for a wildlife center, enhancing animal welfare practices. 💰 Tuition & Financial Aid Annual Tuition for International Students:  Approximately $65,652 (Based on F&M's website) Financial Aid:  F&M offers need-based financial aid to international students, meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all four years on campus. Ready to explore the world of animal behavior?   Discover more about F&M’s Animal Behavior Studies program and how it can shape your future in animal science.

🎓 What:  B.S. in Animal Sciences – Race Track Industry Emphasis 📍 Where:  University of Arizona, Tucson Aerial view of the University of Arizona's campus (Photo source: The University of Arizona) If your dream job involves the thunder of hooves and the thrill of the finish line, the University of Arizona’s Race Track Industry Program (RTIP) is your ticket to the winner’s circle. Established in 1974, RTIP is the only program in the U.S. offering a comprehensive education in the racing industry, blending science, business, and hands-on experience. 🐎 Two Tracks, One Goal RTIP students choose between two specialized paths: Race Track Management:  Focuses on the business side: marketing, regulation, and operations of racing venues. Equine Management:  Centers on horse care, breeding, and training methodologies. Both tracks offer immersive experiences, including internships at racetracks and breeding farms, and participation in the annual Global Symposium on Racing, a premier industry event hosted by the university. 🌍 Ideal for International Students Global Industry Exposure:  Engage with professionals from around the world at the Global Symposium on Racing. Hands-On Learning:  Gain practical experience through internships and field trips to prominent racing venues. Supportive Community:  Join a network of alumni and professionals dedicated to the racing industry. 💼 Career Opportunities Graduates of RTIP have pursued careers as: Race track managers Bloodstock agents Racing regulators Public relations specialists Equine facility managers Notably, alumnus Bob Baffert, a renowned horse trainer, is among the program’s distinguished graduates. 💰 Tuition & Scholarships Annual Tuition for International Students:  Approximately $42,171. Scholarships:  Merit-based awards like the Global Wildcat Award offer up to $20,000 per year. 📅 Key Dates Fall 2025 Application Deadline:  May 1, 2025. I-20 Request Deadline for International Students:  July 1, 2025. Ready to turn your passion for horse racing into a profession?  Explore the Race Track Industry Program at the University of Arizona and take the first stride toward your future in the racing industry.

Universities have to stop viewing international students as just tuition figures with passports says Allison MacLeod, Chief Marketing Officer at Flywire. According to her, student expectations are higher, the digital landscape is evolving fast, and what they need is real  support. Allison MacLeod, Chief Marketing Officer at Flywire (Photo source: FlyWire) Here’s how your institution can keep up: 1. 🤖 Make AI Work for Students (Not Just Your Team) Why it matters:  86% of Gen Z students are already using AI for academic purposes, and 24% use it daily  (Intelligent.com, 2024). MacLeod’s take:  “Use AI-driven platforms to deliver 24/7 support in their language, especially for common questions like deadlines, payment plans, and visa steps.” 2. 📑 Automate the Admin Chaos Why it matters:  51% of students say payment and documentation processes are confusing or stressful (Flywire Student Payment Survey, 2023). MacLeod’s take:  “Automate payment tracking, deadline reminders, and document collection to free up your staff for high-touch moments.” 3. 🌎 Partner With Agents on the Ground Why it matters:  58% of international students say they relied on an agent or recruiter to apply (ICEF Monitor, 2024). MacLeod’s take:  “Agents are your frontline allies. They can bridge cultural gaps and deliver local context that helps students choose your  school.” 4. 🏠 Community Is Currency Why it matters:  Belonging impacts retention, students who feel connected are 2.5x more likely to persist in their studies (ECAR Study of Undergraduate Students and IT, 2023). MacLeod’s take:  “Support peer-led orgs and community-building events. The ROI on belonging is huge.” 5. 💳 Flex the Payment Options Why it matters:  43% of international students report financial stress as their top concern (QS International Student Survey, 2023). MacLeod’s take:  “Installments. Local currency options. Mobile-friendly payment portals. Make it easier to pay and stay.” 6. 🗣️ Speak Their Language (Literally) Why it matters:  41% of prospective students said unclear communication in a second language nearly stopped them from applying (StudyPortals, 2023). MacLeod’s take:  “Support isn’t support if they can’t understand it. Translate onboarding docs, admissions info, and support materials into key languages.” 7. 📢 Say It Clearly. Repeat It Often. Why it matters:  1 in 3 international students reported feeling uninformed about important campus changes during their first semester (Flywire, 2023). MacLeod’s take:  “Clarity wins. Use email, SMS, WeChat, whatever works in their region, and repeat the key messages.” “We’re living in a world where Gen Z expects personalization and transparency,” says MacLeod. “If you want to recruit and retain international students in 2025, these aren’t optional strategies, they’re essential.”

🎓 What:  B.S. & M.S. in Entertainment Engineering & Design 📍 Where:  University of Nevada, Las Vegas (College of Fine Arts) Want to design the next epic theme park ride or live show spectacle? UNLV’s Entertainment Engineering & Design (EED) program—housed within the College of Fine Arts—is one of the few in the U.S. that merges engineering, storytelling, and live-event production into a single hands-on major. The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) has a total enrollment of over 30,000 students. (Photo source: UNLV) 🚀 What You'll Learn Ride & Stage Mechanics:  Build the technical backbone for roller coasters, stage lifts, animatronics. Themed Experience Design:  Craft immersive environments—from concert sets to amusement park worlds. Cross-Disciplinary Engineering:  Study mechanical, electrical, structural, and safety engineering. Project & Team Management:  Run real-world developments in collaboration with experienced pros . 🌐 Why It’s Ideal for International Students Las Vegas Location:  Access to a live entertainment hub—perfect for internships and networking. Industry Connections:  Faculty and alumni work with top-tier organizations, including Cirque du Soleil and major theme parks ( unlv.edu ). Hands-On Projects:  Students lead capstones from concept to execution—real projects, real lessons. 💼 Where It Can Take You Graduates step into high-energy careers such as: Theme park ride engineer Live-show production manager Safety systems designer Projection & technical designer for concerts and events The EED program opens doors to companies like Universal, Disney, Cirque du Soleil, MSG Sphere, and more ( slideserve.com , unlv.edu ). 💰 Tuition & Fees 2024–25 undergrad tuition (NV residents):  ~$7,400/year Non-resident/international:  Estimated $25,000–30,000/year  including tuition, fees, and living expenses 🌟 Why It Stands Out UNLV’s EED program is a rare blend: technical, creative, and theatrical. With experienced faculty, real-world labs, and the Vegas entertainment culture as your playground, you're not just studying design, you’re actually building experiences. Ready to engineer the next unforgettable experience? Check out UNLV’s EED program and get set to shape the future of entertainment, one ride at a time!

🎓 What:  BA in Comedy Writing & Performance 📍 Where:  Columbia College Chicago Most degrees teach you how to write a resume. This one teaches you how to write a punchline. Columbia College Chicago offers the only dedicated  undergraduate degree in comedy writing and performance in the U.S. This isn’t your typical theater major—this is for the students ready to take the mic (and the industry) seriously. Columbia College Chicago Student Center (Photo source: Columbia College Chicago) 🎭 What You’ll Actually Learn From day one, you’ll dive into: 🎙️ Stand-up, improv, and sketch writing 🎥 Screenwriting, voice-over, and podcast production 🤡 Clowning, satire, and performance theory ✍️ Comedy Studies semester with The Second City (yes, that  Second City) Students also create original work, produce shows, and collaborate with professionals. You’re not just watching the scene—you’re in it. 💼 Careers After Comedy School A comedy degree can actually pay off. Columbia grads have gone on to: Write for Saturday Night Live , Key & Peele , and Netflix shows Perform at Second City, UCB, and international festivals Launch careers in: TV & film writing Live performance & touring Podcasting and voice acting TikTok, YouTube, and digital content Comedy development for brands and studios One alum even became a children’s show creator. See? Comedy has range. 🌍 Why International Students Should Apply Chicago is a comedy capital, and Columbia puts you at the center of it. With world-class faculty, inclusive storytelling, and one-on-one mentorship, it’s the perfect launchpad for an international creative career. 💸 Tuition and Costs Annual undergrad tuition (2024–25):  $34,088 Estimated living costs (international students):  ~$30,000–35,000 Total yearly cost:  Around $70,000 (Plus a few bucks for open mic night drinks.) 📅 Key Dates Fall 2025 application deadline:  July 16, 2025 (Common App) Comedy Studies at Second City: Fall/Summer apply by Feb 12 (early) / Mar 28 (regular) Spring apply by Oct 11 (early) / Oct 31 (regular) Want to turn your sense of humor into a global career? Columbia College Chicago’s Comedy BA might just be the most fun you’ll ever have getting a degree. 🎤

🎓 What:  Bachelor of Science in Turfgrass Science 📍 Where:  Pennsylvania State University (University Park & World Campus) There are approximately 50 million acres of managed turf in the U.S. (Source: NTEP, 2025) If you've ever admired the pristine fairways of a golf course or the lush green of a sports field, there's a science behind that perfection. Penn State's Turfgrass Science program delves into the biology, chemistry, and management practices that keep these spaces thriving. As a leader in turfgrass education since 1929, Penn State offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines scientific principles with practical experience. 🌾 What You’ll Learn The Turfgrass Science program provides an integrated study of plant and soil sciences, pest management, and business principles. Students engage in courses covering: Turfgrass Management:  Understanding the growth, development, and maintenance of turfgrass species. Soil Science:  Analyzing soil properties and their impact on turf health. Pest and Disease Control:  Identifying and managing common turfgrass pests and diseases. Irrigation and Drainage Systems:  Designing and managing efficient water systems for various turf settings. Business and Communication Skills:  Developing competencies in management, budgeting, and effective communication within the turf industry. A mandatory summer internship allows students to gain hands-on experience, often leading to future employment opportunities. 🏫 Where You’ll Study Students can pursue this degree at Penn State's University Park campus or through the fully online World Campus, providing flexibility for various learning preferences. 💼 Career Paths Graduates of the Turfgrass Science program are equipped to enter diverse roles, including: Golf Course Superintendent:  Overseeing the maintenance and management of golf course turf. Sports Field Manager:  Managing turf for professional and collegiate athletic fields. Lawn Care Specialist:  Providing services for residential and commercial lawn maintenance. Research Technician:  Conducting studies on turfgrass species, pest control, and sustainable practices. Sales and Service Representative:  Working with companies that supply turfgrass products and services. With a strong alumni network and industry recognition, Penn State's program opens doors to leadership positions in stadiums, top-tier golf courses, and turf and landscape companies worldwide. Interested in turning your passion for green spaces into a thriving career? Explore more about the Turfgrass Science program at Penn State:

🎓 What:  Bachelor of Arts in Adventure Education 📍 Where:  Fort Lewis College, Durango, Colorado The adventure tourism market in the United States is expected to reach a projected revenue of US$ 139,504.4 million by 2030 (Source: Grand View Research, 2025) If your ideal classroom has more pine trees than whiteboards and your lectures involve rappelling down canyons or navigating whitewater rapids, then Fort Lewis College's Adventure Education program might be your perfect fit. This program blends academic rigor with hands-on outdoor experiences, preparing students to become leaders in the field of experiential education. 🧗‍♂️ What You’ll Learn The Adventure Education curriculum at Fort Lewis College is designed to develop skilled educators and leaders through a combination of classroom instruction and field-based learning. Students will: Gain technical outdoor skills in activities such as mountaineering, telemark skiing, and advanced rock climbing. Learn risk management and group facilitation techniques. Participate in an immersive semester that includes courses like Wilderness Expedition and Adventure Leadership. Engage in research projects and present findings at regional conferences. Complete internships with local organizations in the outdoor industry. This comprehensive approach ensures graduates are well-equipped to lead and educate in various outdoor settings. 🏞️ Where You’ll Study Located in Durango, Colorado, Fort Lewis College offers immediate access to diverse terrains, including alpine peaks, whitewater rivers, and desert canyons. The surrounding environment serves as an extended classroom, providing real-world contexts for learning and leadership development. 💼 Career Paths Graduates of the Adventure Education program can pursue careers in: Wilderness therapy Outdoor education programs Public lands management Adventure program design High school education with an outdoor focus The program's emphasis on leadership, teaching, and technical skills opens doors to various roles within the outdoor and educational sectors. Ready to turn your passion for the outdoors into a profession? Explore more about the Adventure Education program at Fort Lewis College: Adventure Education Department