American symbols are recognized the world over. The Statue of Liberty, the White House, and the Bald Eagle are just some of the iconic images that may come to mind when students think of the United States of America. Indeed, the US means many things to different people. For some, it is an economic and political powerhouse and an influential player on the world stage; for others, it is defined by its entertainment industry – Hollywood films and the bright lights of Broadway. And for years, many have seen it as the land of opportunity, a destination for immigrants seeking new freedoms and wealth. But the US is much more than its symbols and stereotypes. For international students, the US education system offers world-renowned educational opportunities of all shapes and sizes. Students can choose from a variety of excellent education institutions in cities and towns across the country. They can experience American college life in a nation that is known for its ethnic and geographic diversity, while discovering the sights, sounds, and tastes of the US. These are just some of the reasons why the US hosts more international students than any other country in the world. This section will outline what makes the US attractive to students considering study abroad – beginning with quick facts about the country and progressing to a more detailed look at its history, economy, government, people, culture, geography, and climate.