How I Got Into Georgetown University as an International Student from Dubai (by Anwesha Nath)
If you’re an an international student looking to get admitted into top ranked U.S. Colleges, feel free to book a free consultation call on how you can start creating your high school roadmap with thoughtful standardized testing preparation and college planning.
Anwesha’s Story
Growing up in Dubai, a city that thrives on ambition and innovation, I always felt a deep sense of possibility. Surrounded by skyscrapers, a melting pot of cultures, and an ever-evolving landscape, my upbringing was anything but ordinary. My journey to Georgetown University as an international student from the UAE was shaped by my environment, my personal struggles, and the unwavering support of my family and mentors. This is my story, one that I hope inspires and guides other students who dream of studying at top universities abroad.
Getting featured in Forbes.
Early Years
I was born and raised in Dubai to working parents who balanced their careers with raising me in a city known for its relentless pace and high standards. From a young age, I was exposed to a global perspective—my classmates came from different parts of the world, and I learned to appreciate diverse viewpoints and international community.
Academically, I was always curious, eager to explore different subjects beyond the classroom. However, I was not naturally gifted; I had to work hard to achieve my goals. Dubai's competitive educational environment pushed me to constantly challenge myself, whether it was through extracurricular activities, leadership roles, or academic pursuits.
High School: Challenges and Triumphs
High school was a whirlwind of experiences, expectations, and self-discovery. The pressure to excel academically while maintaining a balanced extracurricular profile was overwhelming at times. I struggled with imposter syndrome, often questioning whether I was good enough to compete with peers who seemed to have it all figured out.
One of the biggest challenges I faced was navigating the lack of access to resources that catered specifically to international students applying to U.S. universities. Unlike students in the U.S., we did not have the same level of college counseling support, and I had to seek out information from multiple sources, often relying on online forums, virtual webinars, and reaching out to alumni.
Despite these challenges, I built a structured approach to my college application process:
Before jumping into applications, I spent time understanding what made me unique. I delved into my passions, strengths, and personal experiences that could set me apart. For me, it was my work in sustainability and youth advocacy.
Georgetown values academic rigor, so I worked tirelessly to maintain high grades, taking challenging courses and seeking mentorship from my teachers. AP courses along with my A Levels played a crucial role in strengthening my academic profile. Instead of spreading myself thin, I focused on a few impactful activities. As an advocate for climate change through the UNFCCC, I was involved in initiatives that allowed me to make meaningful contributions, which became a core part of my application story.
Podcast Projects that led to more leadership responsibility.
SAT preparation was an uphill battle. The time zone difference meant I had to take exams at odd hours, and the pressure to achieve a high score was immense. However, writing my personal statement was one of the most challenging yet rewarding parts of the application process. I wanted my story to feel authentic and capture the essence of my journey—growing up in Dubai, my struggles, and my aspirations.
The College Application Process
Applying to Georgetown was a daunting task. Unlike other schools, Georgetown requires its own application, separate from the Common App, which means extra essays and additional preparation. The interview process was nerve-wracking, but I made sure to convey my genuine passion for international relations and how my experiences in Dubai positioned me to contribute uniquely to the campus community.
Financial aid and scholarships were another hurdle, as international students often face limited funding options. My situation was further complicated by financial struggles at home, which made it difficult to afford application fees, test registrations, and eventually, tuition. Navigating the complexities of financial aid as an international student was overwhelming, and I often felt discouraged by the lack of resources available. However, I remained persistent—researching external scholarships, reaching out to financial aid offices, and working part-time to contribute towards my education. The journey was filled with anxiety and uncertainty, but my determination to secure a spot at Georgetown kept me going.
The Moment of Acceptance
The day I received my acceptance letter to Georgetown was surreal. I remember refreshing my email multiple times before it finally sank in. The sense of accomplishment and relief was overwhelming, and I knew all the hard work, late nights, and sacrifices had paid off.
College Life: Transitioning and Thriving
Starting my freshman year at Georgetown was a mix of excitement and anxiety. Adjusting to life at Georgetown, managing rigorous coursework, and being away from family were challenging. However, the support of my professors, peers, and the vibrant campus community helped me find my footing.
Georgetown has provided me with unparalleled opportunities, from engaging in global policy discussions to collaborating with students from around the world. The values of cura personalis (care for the whole person) resonated with me deeply, and I have grown academically, professionally, and personally.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Students
If you're an international student from Dubai aspiring to study at Georgetown, here are my key pieces of advice:
Start Early: The earlier you start preparing, the better. Research the application requirements, build your profile, and seek guidance.
Be Authentic: Your unique story matters. Don't try to fit into a mold; instead, highlight what makes you special.
Utilize Resources: Reach out to alumni, attend college fairs, and use online resources to stay informed.
Stay Resilient: The process can be overwhelming, but persistence and adaptability are key.
My journey to Georgetown was not just about academics; it was about resilience, passion, and a commitment to making a difference. Dubai shaped me into who I am today, and Georgetown has given me the platform to turn my aspirations into reality.
To all students aspiring to study at their dream universities—believe in yourself, work hard, and never be afraid to dream big.
Further Reading: See how Tigerway’s Coach Johanna Lee got accepted into University of Southern California as an in-state student (Super competitive).
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