Real students.
Real journeys.

As an international student, one of the biggest challenges I faced was figuring everything out on my own. From understanding everyday systems to building a support network, there was a steep learning curve. A service like ClearPath USA would have saved me time, reduced stress, and helped me avoid many common mistakes. Having trusted guidance during such a major life transition can make students feel more confident and supported, allowing them to focus on succeeding academically and making the most of their experience in the United States.

I started my journey in the United States in 2018. After moving at the age of 16 all by myself, I was fortunate enough to receive a scholarship at the prestigious Taft School in Connecticut, where I was a boarding student with basically no idea what I was getting myself into. Soccer played a huge part in this journey — it took me from South Africa all through high school, into undergrad at Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania, and all the way through to my current opportunity at Clark University. But one thing I would say is I think that a company and organization like ClearPath USA would have really helped me transition when I first landed in the United States, because really I had no idea what I was doing. Simple things like understanding a cellular plan, health insurance, or opening a bank account — for a kid moving to the United States all alone at 16, these are not things you think about at 14 or 15. It took me a few months to set that all up, and it was difficult to even connect back with my family when I needed money for food or basics. Having that guidance at the very beginning of your journey could make all the difference, especially if you move alone. I'm fortunate now to be a part of the ClearPath team and help the new generation with their transition.

What you are building here at ClearPath is awesome! I can't stress enough what a lifechanger this would've been for me when I made the transition in Prep School. If I had access to ClearPath when I initially started my American journey, I would've been in a completely different place, and overly prepared for every task I tackled.

My name is Calem Tommy, and I am a 23-year-old professional soccer player originally from Cape Town, South Africa. At the age of 16, I moved to the United States to attend Northwood School in Upstate New York, where I completed my junior and senior years of high school. Following high school, I earned the opportunity to attend North Carolina State University, where I pursued my degree while competing in the ACC — one of the most competitive collegiate athletic conferences in the country. My experience as a student-athlete at NC State helped me develop both academically and athletically, ultimately leading to my selection in the draft by Houston Dynamo FC. Today, I am a professional player for the Portland Timbers while also completing my degree through a university-supported academic program. Reflecting on my journey, a platform like ClearPath would have been an invaluable resource throughout my transition from high school to college athletics. Having direct access to current student-athletes and their experiences would have provided greater clarity on the realities of collegiate life, the academic and athletic expectations, and the steps necessary to succeed at the next level. ClearPath has the potential to bridge this information gap by creating a platform where athletes can connect, explore opportunities, and gain a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to compete and thrive at the collegiate level and beyond.

Navigating the logistics of being an international student can be overwhelming. Having a resource like ClearPath USA would have saved me so much time and stress figuring out how to make the jump to studying in America.