StudyUSA Alumni! A StudyUSA.com member shares his university success.
Why did you decide to study in the USA?
My brother Krishna graduated from one of the most prestigious institutes of India and was working for a multinational corporation in U.S. He said, “Basu, (my nick name) a MS [master’s of science degree] should be your ultimate goal though you will have job opportunities after a bachelor’s.” Second, it was my parents. Though they are illiterate and belong to an agricultural family, they never compromised on providing me the best education and wanted me to go for an internationally reputed U.S. degree.
I got a chance to work for Indian government project. The experience and knowledge gained while working close with the MBA graduates brought me a new dream and zeal to become an entrepreneur.
How did you find this particular college or university?
I started to look for the best university and started requesting information and a few universities responded back. Krishna’s colleague was an alum of the University of Dayton (UD) suggested UD for me.
How did you use StudyUSA.com in your school search?
StudyUSA helped me by connecting me to many universities in single place. It made my work of doing research to find the best match university easier.
Universities sent me brochures, admission procedures to be followed and further steps. This information helped me to compare other universities with the University of Dayton.
What attracted you about your school?
UD is famous for engineering and entrepreneurship and this was the combination I was looking for. The Crotty Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership ranks among the top five in the nation.
What did you like best about your program/university?
- I had an easy on-campus job.
- There is funding for the best who are serious about research.
- There is flexibility in selecting courses. Out of 30 credits, 18 credits of education was purely my choice.
- The Center for Competitive Change was wonderful and I got an opportunity to work on real-time company problems.
- The Center for Leadership and Executive Development (CLED) is amazing.
What did you miss most about home?
Absolutely, my parents. Although I talk to them every day I still feel them to be away from me.
What was your biggest surprise about U.S. life and education?
Not all the Americans are rich. Most of them have to get funding and many complain about the huge student loans and debts.
How did you handle: ...finances?
My parents sponsored my education. But, from day one I had an on-campus job through which I could support my living. It also made me better understand American culture. ...adjusting to a different educational system? Without the support of seniors, friends, professors and advisors it would be impossible to finish a master’s in three semesters.
What were your activities?
I was a member of the CEO club, International Students club, IEEE group of the university and the Indian Student Association. I visited conferences on business, local business incubators, seminars, business plan competitions and potlucks. I also participated in the Everest Real Estate Challenge and won the competition.
How easy or difficult was it making friends?
People are very friendly. I could make lot of friends through clubs and activities.
How relevant has your U.S. education been to your personal goals and to the needs of your country?
I want to become a successful entrepreneur. No doubt the education at UD gave me more than what I expected from the start. It gave me confidence and now I know where, how, when and what to do to make dreams and goals come true.
What is your advice to other students who are considering a U.S. education?
Getting a visa is not the end of your goal – it is the real work, start from there. Spend most of your time in University exploring the U.S. and never be quick to finish college because it is the best time to make memories.