50 Pakistani undergraduate students to study in American universities for one semester.

ISLAMABAD -- Approximately 50 Pakistani undergraduate students who received scholarships from the American Government are preparing to study in the United States for one semester under the Undergraduate Semester Exchange (UGRAD) Program for Pakistan.

During their stay in the USA, the students will attend undergraduate classes at 42 colleges and universities, participate in workshops to develop leadership skills, and engage in community service projects, said a press release issued here.

Before leaving Pakistan, the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) welcomed the students to a two-day pre-departure orientation in Islamabad to learn about campus life, American culture, and visa and travel requirements. The Acting Deputy Chief of Mission from the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad personally greeted the students in the orientation.

'The United States has a long tradition of embracing international students,' he noted, and 'while it seems obvious that you are gaining a life-changing experience, it is actually a two-way street. We in the United States also gain so much from your examples of hard work and dedication to your studies, as well as your willingness to share Pakistani culture with us.'

The students come from all regions...