OPPORTUNITY FUNDS-BULGARIA 

For High School Juniors and Seniors

Vladimir Markov

Senior, Dimcho Debelyanov 134th High School, Sofia

1.     Why did you apply for an EducationUSA Opportunity Funds-Bulgaria grant? (Do you value the opportunity to learn about American education, culture and society as part of the program?)

 I applied for this program, because as it is named it’s an opportunity. I thought it would be great to have so detailed preparation and help. I value that I was able to be introduced to both American education and culture, through researching for universities, making presentations and meeting native speakers. I’m really glad that I did it, because I received help for my preparation for applying in high school colleges.

2.     What are your primary objectives in studying in the United States?

I want to complete my bachelors in Biology and conduct a research. After that I want to go to medical school and continue studying for becoming a doctor.

3.     Why do you prefer the United States over other countries as a place of study?

I believe the US offers a lot more opportunities compared to other countries. At first there is a wide range of different universities, which gives more and more chances. The American educational system allows the flexibility to choose my own interests before deciding to specialize. This feature of the educational system is something that many other countries do not offer. This flexibility of the system also allows me to create my own schedule, including various courses. The American education can provide a brilliant scope for research and working together with notable laureates. I also believe the multicultural atmosphere would be an enriching experience.

4.     What are your expectations of the US and university life?

I expect to tremendously improve myself as a person, because this university life will be an amazing cultural experience as I said. Moreover, I’m sure I’ll meet many new friends and notable people as well. In between my university studies I suppose I will learn more things about American and world culture.

5.     Have you researched US institutions to determine an appropriate placement? If so, what universities do you find most appropriate and why?

The things I'm looking for in a university are connected with the subject I want to study- Biology. I look for the facility to have good labs, pre-medical courses, because I want to become a doctor. Moreover, I also consider the location and campus of a university. That's why one of my top choices is Johns Hopkins University, because it combines all of the things I look for.

6.     How will the Opportunity experience (acquisition of new skills and knowledge) assist you in achieving your academic goals?

Mostly it will and it already did in my testing, essay writing, application submission but I think it helped me develop as a person as well. I was in an atmosphere with students with the same goals as mine, and teachers, who taught me many new things.

7.     What advice would you give to future candidates applying for the EducationUSA Opportunity Funds grants?

I would encourage them to never give up on their dreams and whenever something feels hard: just embrace it and solve it.

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The text is published in its original and unedited version.