ABOUT US

A very brief history of SmartUni.com. Now with thousands of users, we wish you the best of luck for your applications this year!

I built this website because I wanted to give something to all of the bright young international students. I want them to realise that there is a whole world of opportunity out there for them right now - without having to wait until after University to take advantage of it. When I first decided that I was interested in applying to university in the USA I had absolutely no idea of the steps required to complete the process - nor of the unexplained complexities and nuances that differentiate applications in such a competitive pool of students.

In 2005 I applied to top Universities in the USA. I took my SAT exams in London and Warwick University on the last testing date, and submitted my entire application with essays that I had written in under an hour - too late to be fully considered. I went through the full process, learning as I went, only to be told that I would be considered as part of the Wait list. I was not admitted, but the following year, having gained some invaluable work experience at PriceWaterhouseCoopers LLP in my gap year, I did my research (talking to many people at many Universities, and becoming familiar with all aspects of the application), and reapplied on time. I was admitted to Princeton under an early decision scheme, and offered a financial aid package (97%) to cover the $45 000 per year fees, room, board, and personal expenses. I even have one return flight a year included in my award!

I kept hold of all of my application materials, all of my correspondence, and all of my research; and now I'm making this available to you - because I believe that a full understanding of the process will help you make the right decision.

I hope that this website helps banish many of the myths and confusion surrounding study in the USA, and starts a trend of talented students giving themselves the opportunity of a life-time, 4 unforgettable years, with people and places that will remain in their hearts forever. There truly is nothing else like it.

Best of luck!

James A. Hodson