Opportunities at University of Saint Mary

The University of Saint Mary (USM), located in the vibrant city of Leavenworth, Kansas, offers a wealth of opportunities tailored to international students, particularly those from India embarking on their study abroad journey in the USA. As a private Catholic liberal arts university, USM emphasizes holistic development, combining rigorous academics with real-world experiences. For Indian students targeting the next intake (Fall 2024 or Spring 2025), USM provides pathways to excel in fields like business, healthcare, education, and technology—disciplines highly sought after back home. With small class sizes (average 15-20 students), personalized attention from faculty, and a supportive international community, USM ensures a smooth transition to American higher education. Below, explore key opportunities designed to boost your academic, professional, and personal growth.

Academic Excellence and Program Opportunities

USM's diverse academic offerings are ideal for Indian students seeking STEM-designated programs, which can extend Optional Practical Training (OPT) eligibility up to three years post-graduation—a major advantage for building a global career. Undergraduate and graduate degrees span over 30 majors, with flexible schedules including online and hybrid options for working professionals.

• Business and Management: The Forbes School of Business features AACSB-accredited programs like the MBA and BBA in Accounting or Marketing. Indian students can leverage these for roles in multinational corporations, with capstone projects involving real Kansas City businesses.
• Healthcare and Sciences: Programs in Nursing (BSN) and Biology prepare you for the booming US healthcare sector. The Master of Science in Athletic Training is perfect for sports enthusiasts, offering hands-on clinical rotations.
• Education and Liberal Arts: Earn a teaching credential through the Education Department, or explore Psychology and Criminal Justice—fields with strong demand in India's growing service industry.
• Technology and Innovation: The Computer Science and Information Technology majors include cybersecurity tracks, aligning with India's IT boom and US tech hubs like Silicon Valley.

International students benefit from the Global Scholars Program, which integrates cultural exchange into coursework. For the next intake, apply by June 1, 2024, for Fall, to secure spots in honors seminars that enhance GPA and graduate school applications.

Scholarships and Financial Aid for Indian Students

Affordability is a priority at USM, where international students receive merit-based aid without needing separate applications. Indian students, often facing currency conversion challenges, can access up to $25,000 in annual scholarships, reducing tuition (around $33,000/year) significantly.

Scholarship Name	Amount	Eligibility for Indian Students	Application Deadline (Next Intake)
International Merit Scholarship	$10,000 - $20,000/year	Based on high school/UG GPA (3.0+); no essay required	July 15, 2024 (Fall)
Diverse Scholars Award	$5,000 - $15,000	For students from underrepresented regions like India; focuses on leadership	June 1, 2024
Global Leadership Grant	Up to $25,000	Awarded to incoming internationals demonstrating community service; interview optional	Priority: May 1, 2024
Need-Based Aid for F-1 Visa Holders	Varies (up to 50% tuition)	FAFSA alternative for internationals; submit financial docs	Rolling, but early for next intake

Additionally, USM partners with Indian organizations like the EducationUSA network for fee waivers on application costs ($25). Over 80% of international students receive aid, making USM a cost-effective choice compared to larger US universities.

Career Development and Internship Opportunities

USM's Career Services Center is a gateway to US job markets, with dedicated support for F-1 visa holders navigating CPT (Curricular Practical Training) and OPT. Indian students can intern at nearby Fortune 500 companies in Kansas City, such as Hallmark Cards or Cerner Corporation (health tech).

• Internship Programs: Mandatory for business majors; 90% placement rate. Summer internships in finance or IT often lead to full-time offers, with stipends averaging $15-20/hour.
• Job Placement: Alumni network includes 95% employment/grad school rate within six months. Tailored resume workshops for Indian credentials (e.g., converting CBSE marks to US GPA).
• Entrepreneurship Hub: The Spire Institute offers incubators for startups—ideal for Indian innovators in fintech or e-commerce.

For the next intake, attend virtual career fairs in August 2024 to connect with employers early.

Campus Life and Extracurricular Opportunities

USM fosters a welcoming environment for Indian students through the International Student Organization (ISO), which hosts Diwali celebrations, Holi events, and Bollywood nights. With 1,200 undergraduates, you'll find a close-knit community amid 320 sunny Kansas days.

• Clubs and Sports: Join over 40 clubs, including the Indian Cultural Club and Model UN. NCAA Division II athletics offer scholarships for cricket or soccer enthusiasts.
• Leadership Roles: Programs like the Servant Leadership Series build resumes for Indian corporate ladders.
• Study Abroad Exchanges: Semester options in Europe or Asia via partnerships; credit transfer eases for returning to India.

Health services include mental health support for culture shock, and airport pickups from Kansas City International (30 minutes away) ease your arrival.

Research and Community Engagement

Undergrads engage in faculty-led research, such as sustainability projects in Kansas prairies—publishable for Indian grad apps. Community service hours (required for graduation) connect you to local NGOs, enhancing visa renewal profiles.

In summary, USM equips Indian students with transformative opportunities for the next intake. From scholarships easing financial burdens to internships bridging to high-paying US jobs, USM's supportive ecosystem ensures success. Apply today via the USM portal and I-20 support team for seamless F-1 visa processing—your American dream starts here!