For those who've achieved their dream of getting an admission to a college in the US or the UK, the journey of a lifetime has just begun. The application and acceptance process is actually just a baby step in the long voyage of graduating from the institute.An important next step is settling down, which involves basic questions like housing, medical insurance and a suitable job. To help those students who would undertake their dream journey in the upcoming academic sessions, we provide a low-down of how best to adjust in a foreign country, through the eyes of those who have been there already and those who are mid- way through their courses.
One of a student, who has just completed her LL.M. degree from the London School of Economics and Political Science, points out that the tuition fee in the UK is quite high, especially for Indian students. The reason is that the Indians fall in the non- EU category, which means that their fee is one and a half times or even double of what the locals pay.
Apart from the tuition fee, the biggest chunk of expenditure is on rent. Many students get university accommodation but those who don't, need to look for their own place. There are lots of private hostels and other student accommodations and they can even share an apartment. In such a case, students would have to keep the distance from college in mind as the commuting cost would have to be factored in.
Darshana Rajendran, an undergraduate studying financial economics at the City University London, advises, " It's better for newbies to take up university accommodation for the first few months and then look for cheaper options." Another way to cut down on costs is to move away from central London.
Vaibhav Ghandiok, who is pursuing a Master's in robotics from Utah University, USA, is of the opinion that though on- campus housing is a little more expensive, it's hassle- free." It includes utilities, gas and maintenance," he explains.
Subhas Simhambhatla, who is pursuing a Master's in Electrical Engineering from the University of Southern California, gives some vital tips. He says, " Carry your passport, I- 20 form, evidence of financial resources, original degree certificates and mark sheets, medical documents, important information sent by the U. S University and international student card while flying to America." Talking about his own experience, Simhambhatla says, " The main issue initially was to find a house, and a safe one at that, as LA is really expensive compared to other smaller cities." He was fortunate to get temporary accommodation at a senior's place through the Indian Association.
Many students take up part- time jobs to cover some of their costs or even to fill up free time with something constructive. Working part time is obviously subject to student visa restrictions on the numbers of hours that students can put in every week. Both in the US and U.K., students are allowed to work 20 hours a week. Jobs are available at restaurants, shops and malls. Many universities also offer opportunities to students to work in the library, canteens, and at IT help desks.
At the postgraduate level, however, it is difficult for students to juggle a part- time job along with studies. For those who feel they can cope, there are often opportunities to work as research assistants with professors.
And for those who wish to work in a field related to what they are studying, there are a lot of paid summer internships on offer. Besides, the students' union and/ or student service centers, present in all colleges, also offer specialised career related advice.