TO THE ISSUE OF THE FORMATION OF THE US HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM

The article presents the results of a retrospective analysis of the process of formation and development of the US higher education system from the colonial period to the present, taking into account its historical, social and economic aspects. The author analyzes the key stages of the evolution of American universities, starting with the influence of European educational traditions, legal autonomy of educational institutions and the introduction of government support programs. It is emphasized that the European experience of higher education in the United States of America was implemented through the «Oxbridge» model, which is based on the best ideas of the leading English universities ‒ Oxford and Cambridge. Attention is mostly paid to the transformation of higher education from elite to mass education, which has led to new educational approaches and initiatives. In particular, it is the development of university campuses ‒ a combination of education and student life, which contributed to the emergence of student services. Student services have evolved along with the US higher education system, becoming an integral part of modern colleges and universities. One of the important elements of the modern system of student services is Academic Success Centers, which provide comprehensive support to students. The article discusses their functions and main academic support technologies including academic advising, tutoring, academic coaching, mentoring, psychological support, and career guidance. It is proved that the activities of these centers contribute to improving students’ academic performance, their adaptation to the educational process and socialization in the university environment.The conclusions emphasize that an effective combination of educational reforms, research, and student services has made the US higher education system one of the most successful in the world.