Anayat Durrani

Metro Los Angeles (L.A. County)

Education Reporter and Contributor at U.S. News and World Report

Regular Contributor at Forbes Advisor

Journalist at Freelance

Articles

A Checklist for Earning a Degree Abroad

1 week ago | usnews.com | Anayat Durrani

Choosing what country to study in for your undergraduate or graduate degree isn’t as easy as throwing a dart at a world map. Earning a degree abroad requires considering a country’s political stability, culture fit, social vibe, value and everyday realities, experts say.
Weighing Medical School Abroad? Here's What to Know

1 week ago | usnews.com | Anayat Durrani |Helen Lewis

Key Takeaways: Some international schools offer a more flexible path into a medical career. Careful research is essential when considering foreign schools. Don't overlook residency match rates. Getting admitted to a U.S. medical school is tough competition, but attending med school abroad could be your ticket in.
6 Factors to Highlight in Global University Applications

1 week ago | usnews.com | Anayat Durrani |Helen Lewis

Key Takeaways International study requires a range of soft skills. Your application should demonstrate how your extracurriculars make you a good fit. Open-mindedness and interest in world affairs can give you an advantage. If you’re thinking about attending college in another country, your application needs to show more than good grades. Schools want to see that you’re ready to thrive in a global classroom and embrace new challenges and life in a new country, experts say.
Taking the IELTS: What International Students Should Know

4 weeks ago | usnews.com | Anayat Durrani |Helen Lewis

Key takeaways: Know the score you'll need to achieve for your target school. Work on your time management. Understand your testing options. To prepare for her International English Language Testing System exam, Indian national Harshapriya Prasad says she used several online resources, many of them free. Her preparation paid off and led to a high score. "Practice. Practice. Practice.
Music Business Degrees: What to Know

1 month ago | usnews.com | Anayat Durrani |LaMont Jones |Lamont L. Jones

If you love music but are more interested in the business side – launching a record label, music publishing or managing artists – a music business degree could be your backstage pass to the industry. With a music business degree, students learn about all the facets of the music industry and develop marketing, management and finance skills.
4 Tips to Choose the Right AP Classes

1 month ago | usnews.com | Anayat Durrani |Helen Lewis

Key Takeaways AP classes can demonstrate your strengths to college admissions officers. Not all AP classes will receive credit at the college you attend. Consult with academic advisers to structure your AP goals and classes. Taking Advanced Placement classes can help you challenge yourself, get ahead and earn college credit while still in high school. Selecting the right AP courses can also boost your exam success and strengthen your college outlook.
4 Types of Research Publications Premeds Can Work On

1 month ago | usnews.com | Anayat Durrani |LaMont Jones |Lamont L. Jones

Key takeaways: Having research published isn't required for acceptance to med school. Some research and related publications carry more weight. Find a mentor to help guide you. Getting published looks good on your medical school application and indicates that you can dig deep into research and follow through. It can also boost your residency and fellowship applications later on.
Find an Undergraduate Business School That Helps You Stand Out

1 month ago | usnews.com | Anayat Durrani |Helen Lewis

Key Takeaways Business grads are in high demand. Look for schools offering strong career services and real-world experience. Learn how to look critically at graduate outcomes. Graduating from a good undergraduate business school can give you an edge in a crowded job market. Choosing the right program is important and can equip you with real-world skills and open doors to valuable industry connections, experts say.
How International Students Can Benefit From a Small-Town College

2 months ago | usnews.com | Anayat Durrani |LaMont Jones |Lamont L. Jones

Key takeaways: Colleges in small towns often have smaller class sizes. They can provide a stronger sense of community on and off campus. You may have better chances of improving your English. International students seeking to experience a slice of American culture and life may be drawn to the charm of a small-town college, surrounded by quaint local shops and friendly neighbors.
Applying to Medical School

2 months ago | usnews.com | Renee Marinelli |Anayat Durrani |LaMont Jones |Lamont L. Jones |Fran Jeffries

Best Graduate Schools Diversity in Med School ApplicationsShowing leadership and resilience without oversharing can impress med school admissions committees. Torrence BanksApril 23, 2025