As previously reported on the Study in the States blog, science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) programs are a priority for the United States. STEM professionals and students lead innovation and improvement around the world. Did you know that STEM is responsible for things like the creation of modern highways? For building the engines that power the airplane you flew on to study in the United States? STEM graduates in medical fields even save lives, and we celebrate them on March 30 for National Doctors' Day.

According to the Open Doors report, in the 2012–2013 school year, 31,222 international students (3.8 percent of the total in the United States) studied health professions. Canada sent the most students to enroll in these programs, with 15 percent of all Canadian F and M students choosing a health-related course of study. Other top countries sending students to these programs included Nigeria (12.5 percent), Nepal (9.4 percent), Saudi Arabia (5.6 percent), and South Korea (5 percent).

Tell us: What made you choose to study a health-related field in the United States? What specialty did you pick? Let us know on Facebook or Twitter. You can learn more on the STEM resource page.

Sources:

• International Students: Fields of Study; Open Doors Data; Institute of International Education
• International Students: Fields of Study by Place of Origin; Open Doors Data; Institute of International Education