2021 was quite the year, filled with equal parts optimism and caution. It was a year of amazing stories: Races to the finish to get visa paperwork in on time. Vaccines widely distributed on college campuses. The return of in-person classes! The learnings from this year will be with us for a long time to come.
Here at Shorelight, in 2021, our motto of putting students first meant ensuring student health and safety on our campuses, being flexible in a rapidly changing landscape, and striving for creativity to find solutions for every challenge.
And speaking of challenges, we’ve been so impressed by our students and universities this year. Whether you study computer science or liberal arts, attend school in person or virtually, your resilience, ambition, ingenuity, and hope continue to inspire us.
Let’s take a look at the highlights of 2021, and how together, we accomplished so much.
Shorelight Highlights from 2021
Johns Hopkins Joins Shorelight
International graduate students seeking to earn a prestigious engineering master’s degree can now apply via Shorelight to Johns Hopkins, among the top 10 universities in the US and globally.*
Gonzaga Global Expands International Student Degree Offerings
With the launch of graduate degree programs in 2021, Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, entered a new stage of collaboration with Shorelight.
Cleveland State Global Introduces UStart
Designed especially for international students who may not meet traditional entry requirements, UStart at Cleveland State University broadens access to US university degrees.
American Collegiate Programs Celebrate Record Transfers
In 2021, students who completed American Collegiate’s first-year program were accepted at top-100 destinations including Emory University, University of Michigan, University of Southern California, and many more.
University of the Pacific International Sees Incredible OPT/CPT Success Rate
Thanks to UOPI staff, international students saw high approval rates for OPT/CPT requests – and followed up with unforgettable work experiences at global employers in the Bay Area.
Readers’ Favorite Stories on Shorelight.com in 2021
Beyond our top stories, we always want to know what’s resonating with you, our readers. (Hint: It’s visas and how-to posts.) Here are our top five most-read stories in 2021:
1. F-1 Visa Interview: Question and Answer Guide for Students
Practice in advance so you can head to your visa interview with confidence.
2. 21 Best Study Tips for Final Exams
Worried about big tests coming up? These study tips set you up for success, no matter the subject.
3. The US Higher Education System Explained
Whether you plan to get a bachelor’s or master’s degree, it’s important to understand how US universities and colleges work. Our definitive guide takes you through the whole system, from application to graduation.
4. How to Stay in the US After Graduation (If You Want to)
If you’re planning to work in the US after you’ve earned your degree, our guide to F-1 and OPT visa extensions helps you understand your options.
5. What Is an Interdisciplinary Studies Degree?
Combining two or more traditional courses of study into a more personalized major, interdisciplinary studies appeal to independent international students who want to chart their own paths.
Looking Ahead
As 2022 gets ever closer, we wish continued success for international students and our universities – and we look forward to working with you in the new year. Thank you for our continued collaborations!
谢谢你 धन्यवाद Gracias Merci cảm ơn
Want to study at an internationally friendly university in the United States? Shorelight can help find the right school for you >
*U.S. News & World Report, 2022
