Opportunities at Lakeland University

Lakeland University, nestled in the serene town of Plymouth, Wisconsin, offers a wealth of opportunities tailored for ambitious Indian students aspiring to study in the USA. As a private liberal arts institution with a global outlook, Lakeland emphasizes hands-on learning, career preparation, and personal growth. For the upcoming intake in Fall 2024 or Spring 2025, Indian students can seize scholarships, internships, and networking prospects that bridge academic excellence with real-world success. With small class sizes (average 15-20 students) and a supportive community of over 300 international students from 20+ countries, including a growing Indian cohort, Lakeland ensures you thrive in a multicultural environment while adapting to American life.

Academic Opportunities

Lakeland's curriculum is designed to foster innovation and employability, making it ideal for Indian students pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees. The university offers over 30 majors and minors, with flexible pathways that align with India's competitive job market demands in fields like business, technology, and healthcare.

• Business and Management Programs: Dive into the AACSB-accredited School of Business with majors in Accounting, Finance, Marketing, and Sports Management. These programs include case studies on global markets, perfect for Indian students eyeing roles in multinational corporations like Infosys or Tata Consultancy Services back home or in the US.
• Technology and STEM: Explore Computer Science, Information Systems, and Cybersecurity tracks. Lakeland's partnerships with tech firms provide access to cutting-edge labs, preparing you for H-1B visa opportunities in Silicon Valley or Chicago's tech hubs.
• Healthcare and Education: Programs in Nursing, Athletic Training, and Education equip you with skills for global certifications. Indian students often pursue these for pathways to US licensure or returning to India's booming healthcare sector.
• Graduate Options: The Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Education are accelerated formats (as short as 12 months), ideal for working professionals. With evening and online classes, balance studies with OPT (Optional Practical Training) work experience.

International students benefit from credit transfer policies that recognize Indian qualifications like CBSE or IB, easing your transition. For the next intake, apply by June 1, 2024, for Fall, to secure spots in high-demand programs.

Career and Internship Opportunities

Lakeland's Career Services Center is a powerhouse for Indian students, boasting a 95% employment rate within six months of graduation. The university's location— just 90 minutes from Milwaukee and two hours from Chicago—opens doors to Fortune 500 companies for internships and jobs.

• Internships and Co-ops: Mandatory internships in majors like Business and Criminal Justice provide paid experiences at firms such as Kohler Co., Quad/Graphics, and local hospitals. Indian students have landed roles in supply chain management, leveraging US-India trade ties.
• Networking Events: Attend career fairs, guest lectures from alumni in tech giants like Google and Amazon, and the annual International Career Expo. The Indian Student Association (ISA) hosts mixers to connect with professionals from India.
• Post-Graduation Pathways: OPT and CPT eligibility allows up to three years of work authorization in STEM fields. Many graduates secure H-1B sponsorships or return to India with enhanced resumes for top firms.

Pro Tip for Indian Students: Utilize Lakeland's resume workshops tailored for F-1 visa holders, focusing on cultural nuances to impress US recruiters.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Affordability is key for Indian families, and Lakeland commits up to $20,000 in merit-based aid annually for international students. No separate application needed—scholarships are awarded upon admission based on academics and extracurriculars.

Scholarship Name	Amount (USD)	Eligibility for Indian Students	Application Deadline for Next Intake
International Merit Scholarship	$10,000 - $15,000 per year	High school GPA 3.0+ or equivalent (e.g., 80%+ in Class 12)	June 1, 2024 (Fall)
Global Leadership Award	$5,000 - $8,000 per year	Leadership in school clubs or community service; essay required	July 15, 2024 (Fall)
STEM Excellence Scholarship	$12,000 per year	Strong math/science background; SAT/ACT optional but beneficial	June 1, 2024 (Fall)
Graduate Assistantships	Tuition waiver + stipend ($4,000)	GRE optional; prior work experience for MBA applicants	August 1, 2024 (Fall)

Additional funding includes on-campus jobs (up to 20 hours/week at $10-15/hour) and external scholarships like the Fulbright-Nehru for Indians. Total cost of attendance is around $35,000/year after aid, making it competitive with larger US universities.

Campus Life and Cultural Opportunities

Beyond academics, Lakeland enriches your study abroad journey with vibrant extracurriculars. The 240-acre campus features modern facilities, including a fitness center, lakefront trails, and residence halls with Indian cuisine options in the dining hall.

• Clubs and Organizations: Join the Indian Student Association for Diwali celebrations, Holi festivals, and Bollywood nights. Over 50 clubs, from Model UN to Entrepreneurship Society, build leadership skills transferable to India's dynamic economy.
• Athletics and Wellness: As an NCAA Division III school, participate in soccer, basketball, or yoga clubs. Wellness programs address cultural adjustment, combating homesickness common among Indian students.
• Study Abroad Exchanges: While in the USA, opt for short-term trips to Canada or Europe through Lakeland's global network, enhancing your resume for international roles.

Support for International Students

Lakeland's Office of International Programs provides end-to-end assistance: airport pickup from Chicago O'Hare, F-1 visa guidance, and I-20 processing. Orientation includes sessions on US culture, banking, and healthcare—crucial for Indian newcomers. The English Language Institute offers bridge programs if needed, ensuring a smooth start for the next intake.

In summary, Lakeland University empowers Indian students with unparalleled opportunities to excel academically, launch careers, and embrace American diversity. With rolling admissions and personalized advising, now is the time to apply for transformative experiences that propel you toward global success.