Preparing to study overseas

The United States (US) embassy in Kingston recently held a Pre-departure Orientation Seminar at the Hilton Kingston hotel, New Kingston. The seminar was held as an informational tool for students who were preparing to make the leap from secondary education in Jamaica to tertiary education in the US.

Several speakers were invited to the function, including Ayanna Samuels, a graduate of Massachusetts Institute of Technology; two college students - Shauna Myers, from the University of Richmond, and Rainier Goubault, from Lewis and Clarke College; and a consular officer from the embassy, Amy Reardon.

The seminar was an informative one and each speaker gave helpful tips on topics ranging from student visa applications to general health and study techniques. One student, Brian-Ray Moore, had this to say about the seminar:

"The seminar was very helpful as it allowed students and their parents to ask questions and gain instant feedback. It made me aware of what to expect in the interview (for the student visa) and what not to forget on interview day. The first-hand experiences of the students and past students also helped me to become more aware of what to expect when I reach school. They shared information that could only be acquired from personal experience."

The ceremony would not have been possible were it not for the efforts of Eva Barnes, coordinator of the seminar and the participation of the US Embassy.

The speakers listen intently as Amy Reardon gives her presentation.	The speakers are questioned shortly after the seminar by students and parents alike.

The crowd seems very interested in what Ayanna Samuels is saying.

The MC, Dr Dana-Marie Robinson, is seen here wrapping up the seminar.

Mr Goubault lightens up the mood with his unique sense of humour.

These young ladies take time out after the seminar to pose for our camera.

Each visitor was provided with one of these to help solidify information grasped from the seminar.

- Photos by Mathue Duhaney