Beyond the States: College in Europe

For our final episode of the season, Jenn dives into a discussion on the rewards of pursuing a Master's degree in Europe. Her conversation partner this week is Sean Dempsey, a past BTS member and recent graduate of the highly-ranked KU Leuven, in Belgium. It was his study abroad semester in Spain, as an undergraduate, that was the inspiration and gateway to gaining his Master's degree in Europe.  And speaking of graduate school, Jenn announces our team's summer plans on the podcast for giving a deserved boost to our sweeping Master's degree resources and offerings. Get the scuttlebutt on these improvements, and hear about some of Jenn's favorite grad programs featured in our Master's database, some of which her own son, Sam, is exploring. It's happening!   “According to FinAid.org, the average cost for master's degree programs in the US ranges from $30,000 – $120,000 which depends on whether a student is paying in-statue tuition, out of state or private tuition. English-taught master's degree programs in Europe are much more affordable. Their average tuition for the more than 6,200 English-taught programs is under $8,000 per year. That average includes the higher priced programs, like MBAs, so it is significant to note that there are over 1,800 options under $3,500 per year and more than 700 that are tuition free-even for international students.”  –Jenn Special offer for Master's: Get 50% OFF your 1st month's of our Master's Membership. Special offer for Bachelor's: Check out our (Almost) Crunch Time Pack for those looking to attend college in Europe for 2023 and beyond. Huge savings!

No doubt, being independent is one of the most important qualities needed if you plan to study in Europe. Navigating in a foreign country, on your own, demands a large degree of self-reliance and pliancy, and it's important to appreciate that colleges in Europe do far less hand-holding when compared to those in the states.  This topic never goes out of style, and is always shifting and fluid with the culture, such as now in the wake of the pandemic. With that in mind, Jenn revisits and updates a past podcast episode from 2018, geared toward parents, titled Fostering Student Independence. Listen in on how Jenn has helped her own children develop these skills over the years, and get ideas for things you can do at home, and while traveling, for your own family. “Many of us underestimate the resilience our kids have, but by underestimating this and trying to protect them from uncomfortable situations we prevent them from developing more resilience and independence that's going to help them through life.” –Jenn

This week's episode certainly aligns with a common theme this season addressed by many of our guests, and that is the critical importance of cultivating “soft skills” in the up-and-coming workforce. These skills, like assertiveness, resilience, self-direction, empathy, cooperation, diversity awareness, and adaptability are simply not versed (even discouraged) in traditional education in the US. In the current US college admissions game alone, it appears there is no room (or reflected value) for failure.  Our guest this week, Colleen Bordeaux, a senior manager at Deloitte Consulting in LA, joins us in discussion on this hot topic, speaking from an employer's point of view. You'll hear her pressing for today's youth and graduates to see the value in getting out of comfort zones, of taking and seeing the advantage of experiences and failures, since these are some of the opportunities where important human skills can begin to take shape; these are the skills that matter more-than-ever for professional success.    "Up to 40% of the jobs that we know have the potential to be automated and done by technology. And there are millions of new jobs that are being created that people have never done before. And so it is calling on us to really think differently about  what are the skills and capabilities we've got as humans that can endure and help us adapt in the fast-changing workplace." –Colleen Bordeaux “Though I don't believe college in Europe is the route for everyone, I do truly believe that it's an incredible way to ensure our kids are developing these crucial skills while having these life-changing experiences.”  –Jenn 

It's that time of year again… College admissions are on the minds of many students who have attempted to get into their choice schools across the US; it can be a deeply confusing and stressful time for many. Jenn begins the episode this week by sharing a disturbing, first-hand look at the US admissions process through her daughter (Ellie) and Ellie's friends' experiences, and provides an update on Ellie's plans for the fall and how she eventually came to the decision to study in the US. As well, although it is true that college in Europe is not for everyone (as evidenced by the fact that Jenn's daughter will be attending school in the states), it is important to understand how the transparent and objective admissions criteria is in surprising contrast to that in the US. With that, we decided to revisit an important episode from 2017 with Maarten Dikhoff, an administrator from Groningen University who explains the admissions approach and process in the Netherlands and Europe. Ultimately, we'll see how this approach is wholly refreshing, compared to the problematic one in the states. (Spoiler alert - they don't care about your SAT scores or extracurricular activities!) Tune in and find out more! "It's not where you go to college, but how you go to college that matters." -- Jenn “We basically do our selection during the first year. Students can all get the chance to study at a university in the Netherlands, but in the first year they need to show they are capable of doing so.”, Martin

There are some incredible university choices all around the world, including in the US. However, there is a widespread belief that the US higher education system is the best in the world. Jenn summarizes specific studies that debunk this belief. Later in the episode, Jenn and her guest discuss other aspects of studying and students' lives before, during, and after college. Jenn has a conversation with Jeffrey Selingo, the best-selling author of numerous useful books about higher education. Jeff shares some interesting points and situations he faced while collecting and researching data in this field for more than two decades. “Life is not a straight line. There are going to be failures. Learn from people that you can identify with.”, Jeffrey Selingo

Jenn's son, Sam has been struggling with implementing and sticking with organizational systems since his 5th grade. Even though the question of whether Sam suffers from ADHD remains unsolved, one is for sure, he lacks Executive Functioning skills. Therefore, in today's episode, Jenn is joined with Jenna Prada, the creator, and director of Private Prep's Executive Functioning Programs. Jenna shares some of her strategies for helping students to overcome common executive functioning struggles, gain motivation, and learn time management skills. Moreover, you will learn why it is counterproductive to protect your teens from failure, when parents should reach for professional help, why do we have executive dysfunctions as adults, and how to solve them later in life. Tune in and find out more!  “There is no kid that grows into their adult life and doesn't need any systems. Even if you can get your way through college, adulting is hard. We all need systems.”, Jenna Prada

Why are certain places a perfect choice for some people but a mistake for others? Generally speaking, something doesn't have to be “better than” or “worst than”, it can just be defined as different. Moreover, something is very rarely universally “better than” or “worse than”, rather, it is a matter of the specific person's preferences. Whether we are talking about food and fashion or homes and education. Hence, how to make choices that match your personality and expectations when it comes to living and studying abroad? Jenn and her guest discuss this topic. She is joined with Tim Leffel, a writer, an editor, a publisher, and an author of numerous books about traveling. Stay tuned as Tim shares his rich experience of traveling to many countries and also suggests the importance of setting the right priorities when choosing a country to stay. “You need to know what is crucial for you to have in your life ahead of a time and to be prepared for cultural differences.”, Tim Leffel

Is a degree from Europe valuable enough in the US? Does it allow students to get into grad school and get a good job? Who gives accreditation to universities in the States? What are the hidden costs international students need to know when applying for universities? Jenn digs deep into this topic to answer these and many more questions. Later in the episode, Jenn opens a discussion with the doctor and international medical graduate Akriti Sinha. Sr. Sinha shares her story around becoming a doctor in the US with a degree from abroad and gives advice for coping with numerous problems and specific challenges foreign students can face.

What are the differences between study programs at Research Universities and those at Universities of Applied Sciences? Which one prepares a student for a Master's Degree Program and which for employment? Should we care about academy snobbery? How can you choose the best possible university for our own circumstances, and what can you expect after getting a degree? Jenn and her guest share some very useful ideas and experiences that can be of great help to students and their parents. In the second part of the episode, Jenn talks with Andrew Smith, who received his master's degree at The University of Applied Science in Wiener Neustadt (Fachhochschule Wiener Neustadt), in Austria and is now working for Deloitte in the US. Andrew shares his story and gives advice on how to find the best university in Europe.  “By studying abroad, you are going to brand yourself, and for someone who wants more of that international focus, studying abroad is a no-brainer.” Andrew Smith

What does the research say about the benefits of studying abroad? Why are American students far behind the world when it comes to studying abroad? Why do only 10-14% of college freshmen end up studying abroad even though 63% of them wish to take a semester beyond the states? Tune in as Jenn answers these questions! Later in the episode, Jenn opens a discussion with Marty Tillman, a prolific speaker, an author, an advocate for international studies, and the president of Global Career Compass. Marty shares his valuable experience in working with young people, bringing their needs closer to the listeners of this episode. Furthermore, the guest of the show reveals the impacts of international education on students' career development and goes through some of the most common concerns students and their parents have. Lend an ear to this week's podcast and find out more! “There is a career impact, and there is no question for me. It's got to be discussed with the student about the importance of what they are going to undertake. They need not to minimize the potential impact on their career.” Marty Tillman

Why is it important to gain insight into what college is for you as an individual? What happens if you don't have that awareness? Moreover, what questions should you ask yourself to get that clear idea?  Jenn dives into these questions to start the episode off. Later in the episode, Jenn talks to William Deresiewicz, a former English professor at Yale University, an essayist, a literary critic, and an author of best-selling books, A Jane Austen Education and Excellent Sheep. Take a listen to this week's episode and find out who is an excellent sheep, the unintended impact the US admissions process has on students throughout life, and how to avoid these pitfalls. Furthermore, you will discover whether a school's reputation impacts future earnings, why faculty at most US universities are discouraged from spending time teaching, the problems of educational and residential-class segregation, and much more!  “As a result of the excellence that students have been forced to demonstrate, always doing what grown-ups want them to do, never having time to think about what they want, what they are good at, what they care about, they become sheep.” William Deresiewicz

Jenn has an interesting announcement about the upcoming podcast interviews around studying and living abroad with some of the top-selling book authors on that matter. William Deresiewisz, Jeffrey Selingo, and Tim Leffel are unquestionably inspiring guests and Jenn is more than excited to talk to them! For now, you can check out their books, which you can find in the episode links below!  “I want to allow her to go through this process and make a choice that is best for her, but she needs to first gain insight into how to determine what is best for her. “ Jenn Today's episode is a bit different as Jenn provides first-hand information on how pursuing the options in Europe can look from start to finish, in a deeper way; a case study. There is nobody Jenn knows better in the world than her daughter Ellie. Hence, we will find out how she chose her areas of study, how she decided on a school, all about the requirements for admission, and a surprising request Ellie has made which may change everything!

How much active parenting should we do for our teens and college-age students? How much does a parent's “help” prevent teens from developing the skills they need to become independent and successful adults? How do we know when and how to step back? In today's show, we have the best guest for that matter! Jenn is joined with Nanette Ripmeester, a Global Labor Mobility expert, with over 25 years of experience in advising employers, universities, and governments. The two discuss how soft skills that students gain by living and studying abroad directly relate to their maturity, independence, and ultimately, employability. Tune in and find out more!

In today's episode, Jenn has an interesting discussion with Tiffany, a parent of one of our members, Ethan. She became so interested in the Beyond the States process herself so that she's amid planning admission for herself and her husband – for a Master degree program in the EU! Furthermore, Tiffany talks about how she became so open to new possibilities in her life, background stories about traveling & different experiences, and gives an answer to the most important question for all seniors about high education (and chasing dreams) : Is it too late, can I do this? Tune in and find the answer! “There's not just one right path for everyone.” Jenn

In today's episode, Jenn welcomes Lisa, one of the original BTS members, who some of you might know from TikTok. She will talk about her experience studying in Europe, as a student with ADHD. Furthermore, Lisa will share her insights in how to utilize her strengths related to diagnosis and all the knowledge about strategies that help her personally in areas she struggles with. Tune in and learn how to use your disabilities as an advantage! However, before we jump into an interview with Liza, you will get the latest updates on Sam's studies in Europe and how he overcame the difficulties studying amid the global pandemic. In addition, you'll find all about October special, a Crunch Time Pack which is offered only twice a year. Get your Best Fit List soon enough! It's limited to 5 students only. “The positive thing about ADHD? When something is enjoyable, you can dive in!” Lisa Majeski

Welcome back to another episode of the Beyond the States podcast! In today's interview with Jenn, Anya talks about a unique study program in Europe in which a student studies in a different city/country each year. Far away from her birthplace in Colorado, now a student in ESCP University, our guest will talk about how she found the right college in the EU, why she'd decided for that kind of program, and what track she'll pursue in time to come. Anya reveals how it's like to learn foreign languages and cultures (3 times in a row) during challenging times of COVID issues, and much more! Besides, Jenn is having a word about who has made her life considerably easier during her stay in Portugal. Have you ever heard about Bruno “The Fixer”?  

In this week's episode, Jenn discusses with Adam, a US student currently studying in Rotterdam. Our guest talks about a number of his experiences beyond the States, including the fact that he plays competitive baseball in the Netherlands. Learn more about Adam's background, how it looks like to study as an international student in Europe, and the main differences between the US and EU school systems. Moreover, find out how American students get used to European life, especially during the COVID era. Tune in and hear out firsthand from our young, and yet so mature guest, Adam! “You're going to learn 10% in the classroom. Plant seed and water the relationships. That's where you really learn from, the people you connect with.” Adam's Dad  

The Beyond the States podcast is back! In this episode, recorded in August 2021, Jenn covers the basics of Beyond the States and overviews some of the biggest ideas around college in Europe.  We hope you enjoy it!

Jenn talks with Mark Kantrowitz, a leading expert on financing a student’s college education. 

One difference between college in the US and Europe is that in Europe incoming students must apply to a specific program, so they must know what they want to study. For students who don’t know what they want to study, this aspect can lead to worry. In this podcast, Jenn announces the availability of our “What’s My Major?” offering that helps students determine their field of study.

This week's podcast is our College in Europe 101 webinar as presented in February. Video is available at https://beyondthestates.com/upcoming-webinars/

After reading a blog post from a college counsellor that declared that the US post secondary education system was globally superior, Jenn felt compelled to respond. Here are her answers to the naysayers.

Jenn talks about the prospect of studying abroad in another country when you’re already studying abroad as an international student. She interviews João Pinto from the Erasmus Student Network. Interesting fact: students who study abroad are 3x more likely to vote!

In this episode, Jenn talks about threshold model of collective behavior first introduced to us in Malcolm Gladwell’s amazing podcast, Revisionist History. This theory describes how some people within a group are more comfortable than others when acting against group norms. If you’re at all interested in college in Europe, I encourage you to listen to Gladwell’s podcast episode, The Big Man Can’t Shoot, which explains an academic concept using an accessible sports motif. Jenn’s guest for this episode is one of our members, Laura, whose daughter, Liza, is attending Anglo American University in Prague, Czech Republic.

In this episode, Jenn looks are two questions: What is the social life like for international students? And what is a University of Applied Sciences? Universities of Applied Sciences focus on getting students ready to enter the workforce as opposed to the purely theoretical approach one would find at a research university. In some countries, UASs are viewed as inferior, while in the Netherlands, they’re viewed as simply different. In this episode, Jenn interviews Hannah Remo. Originally from a small town in New Jersey, Hannah is currently studying European Studies at The Hague University of Applied Sciences and will graduate with zero student debt. It is less expensive for Hannah to attend college in the Netherlands than it would have been to study in-state!

How does a student decide on which program is best for him? What is that selection process like? This episode’s guest is Sam Viemont, son of Jennifer and Tom Viemont. The episode covers Jenn & Sam’s recent trip to the Netherlands to visit Leiden University for the school’s Experience Day.  

In this episode, Jenn talks with Chelsea Workman. Chelsea started studying Philosophy at Ohio State. Although she chose an ‘affordable’ public school, the tuition, at over $10k per year, soon put financial stress on my father and meant she needed to work in addition to studying. She began racking up debt. Eventually, she dropped out, believing it futile to pay over $40,000 for a bachelor’s degree in a subject she could easily learn for free, say by reading in a local coffee shop. She decided instead to work full-time and save some money. Her sister was working at a school in a small town in Germany and suggested Chelsea give it a try. Chelsea has now finished her bachelor’s degree in Germany and has traveled extensively – all while on a budget.

In the US, the conventional wisdom tells us that the US academic experience is superior, but is that really the reality or is that the story we are told. In this episode, Jenn talks with Samantha Savage. Samantha received her undergraduate degree in International Studies from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She received her master’s degree from Malmo University in Global Political Studies. Samantha talks about her experience getting her master’s in Sweden compared to her undergraduate education at Carolina.

At some point in the conversation about college in Europe, the question of safety comes up. People usually ask whether it’s dangerous for students to live in Europe. In this episode, Jenn explores the ideas of fear and risk and whether the reward can outweigh the risk. She talks with Ansel Mullins, who has lived with his family in Europe for 14 years. Guest Ansel Mullins, Chief of Development, Culinary Backstreets

In this episode, Jenn interviews Crystal LaGrone about her experience attending the Master’s program in e-Governance Technologies at Tallinn University of Technology in Tallinn, Estonia. Crystal's tuition and living expenses were quite reasonable, especially since this program was exactly what she wanted to study.

Jenn covers the basic concepts about going to college in Europe. She explains the different types of higher education institutions in Europe, the types of degree programs, along with housing and student life.

How useful are college rankings actually? What do they measure? Can you find great colleges in Europe without relying on rankings? How can you determine whether a school would be a good fit if it is not ranked? Jenn talks with Miwa Kitmura, Head of External Relations from  Vesalius College in Brussels to answer these questions and more in this episode of the Beyond the States podcast. They also talk about the areas students should investigate to determine school quality.

Jenn begins by touching down on the problems with the US higher education admissions processes and the increase in the number of US schools with extremely low acceptance rates.Maarten Dikhoff, an administrator from Groningen University, explains how different the admissions process is when students apply to schools in the Netherlands and Europe. The transparent and objective admissions criteria present a refreshing change to those accustomed to the US systems. Spoiler alert-they don't care about your SAT scores or extracurricular activities!

This episode of the Beyond the States podcast focuses on tuition cost. Jenn presents information on the astronomical tuition in the US and related problems. She then demonstrates how tuition for the English-taught bachelor’s and master’s degree options in Europe allow an international student to pay less for her entire degree program-including travel costs- than one year of tuition alone at many schools in the US.Peter Kumble, an American professor at Czech University of Life Sciences in Prague, Czech Republic joins the discussion. They explore how it is possible for international student tuition to be so reasonably priced and dig into information about the continued savings students have for other related costs like housing, fees, books, and health insurance.

In the spring of 2015, Jenn Viemont happened on a Facebook post about a US student who was attending college for free in Germany. Little did she know that article would start her on a journey to build a database of the thousands of English-taught bachelors and masters programs in continental Europe. In this episode, Jenn Viemont talks about why her kids will opt out of US higher education and go to college in Europe instead. She provides an overview of the benefits around this which include affordable tuition, transparent admissions requirements, employability, and the life changing experiences offered by living abroad.