An icon symbolizing an angle pointing downwards is shown below. Lou and Jennifer Zeidberg shared that their children opted for European colleges due to their disappointment with the US college application process. The Zeidbergs raised their kids in the US, and both their children chose to study in Europe. Their son is currently enrolled in a college in France, while their daughter plans to attend a college in Spain. The decision to study in Europe was influenced by cost factors and the opportunity for their son to immerse himself in new cultures.
Lou Zeidberg, a marine science lecturer at California State University, shared his initial desire for his children to experience traditional American college life, like he did at UC Berkeley. However, the tedious and stressful US college application process led to their son, Jacob, applying to almost 30 schools in 2019 only to face rejections and waitlists. Eventually, Jacob chose to attend a junior college in San Diego. The disappointing experience prompted the family to explore European college options through the “Beyond the States” service, leading Jacob to apply and be accepted to Toulouse Business School in France.
Jacob’s journey to college in Europe involved overcoming language barriers, cultural shocks, and the thrill of exploring new destinations. His experiences inspired his younger sister Phoebe, who also opted for European colleges. While the high tuition fees in the US are a concern for many families, the Zeidbergs found the lower costs of European colleges to be a compelling option. The family believes that providing their children with opportunities to explore the world and experience different cultures is invaluable.