Before you select a place to study and live, it is important to get an understanding of the various regions that make up the United States. The United States is the world's third largest country by land area after Russia and Canada. It is bound by the North Atlantic Ocean to the east, the North Pacific Ocean to the west, Mexico to the south, and Canada to the north. The U.S. is a huge country and is divided into fifty states; for easier study, it is often split into six regions. There are some regional commonalities, but do keep in mind that many are stereotypes and that the U.S. is very dynamic and diverse country.

The Northeast

A region comprised of the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island, the Northeast is a mix of diverse cultures and is renowned for its prestigious colleges and universities. Winters can be quite cold and snowy, and the summers are known for being hot and muggy.

The Middle Atlantic

Made up of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Washington, DC and Maryland, the Middle Atlantic is the most well-known region of the U.S., as it boasts of being home to one of the biggest cities in the world, New York, and also the capital city of Washington, DC. Once known for shipping companies, now the Middle Atlantic is famous for being the corporate center of the finance, communications, and pharmaceuticals industries.

The South

The South traditionally known as the being the home to the very hospitable Southerner, who will welcome you in his midst in a temperate climate. The regions that make up the South are Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, Louisiana, and some parts of Missouri, parts of Texas and Oklahoma.

The Midwest

Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, Iowa, parts of Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, Kansas, Nebraska, and eastern Colorado build up the Midwest. The most fertile land, the Midwest covers the largest area of the U.S.. It is known for being the center of old traditions, values, and customs.

The Southwest

The Southwest is an area most untouched by immigrants and outsiders. Well known for the beautiful Grand Canyon and the casino city of Las Vegas, it is comprised of western Texas, parts of Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arizona and Nevada.

The West

Westerners are generally considered more open-minded and less traditional than others in the U.S., and this is one of the more culturally diverse areas of the country. It is made up of western Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Utah, California, Nevada, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, Alaska, and Hawaii.

Indian Diaspora

Indian community

The Indian population in the U.S. has recorded a phenomenal growth of 105.87% in the past decade, the highest among all Asian origin groups, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. While you are far away from home, there are ways to stay connected. Cultural events of all kinds are very common in Indian communities across the U.S. You can catch up with the Indian film industry, live shows, or art exhibitions. One can also catch up with Indian television channels. You could check out varied Indian communities on Internet, as well. Most larger campuses have an Indian or South Asian student association, and if not, the International Student office at your school will likely be able to point you to community and other resources that will help you feel more at home. You'll be amazed to see that a little India exists even in the midst of USA.