It takes a lot of convincing, dedication and hard work to reach your goal. Every day you feel like giving up, but your goals and dreams keep you going. Today, we bring you the story of Jasleen Kaur, MSc Finance from University of Miami and class of 2020. It was Jasleen’s dream to study in the US, and she was confident enough not to let anything break it.
nn
“It took a lot of convincing and preparation to come to the USA. One reason for the same can be the fact that I am a single child, and my parents have always been overprotective about me. It was the first time I was travelling alone and that to miles away. Initially, it took much emotional strain to make this decision, but once it was final, I started by preparing for the GMAT exam as achieving the right scores meant getting through a good college. I did a lot of self-study and used various YouTube Channels like MagooshGRE. It was of great help and later, I got ‘Offer letters’ from four different universities, including the University of Miami.
nn
Since I was a city girl and transition from one city to another is comparatively easy, I selected to study MSc Finance at the University of Miami. The course was an amalgamation of compulsory and electives subjects. It gives you a chance of selecting the right combination and preparing for the necessary skills. I even scored a scholarship worth $20,000, and it gave my dream a big boost as studying abroad can be a tad bit expensive without a scholarship.
n
As far as living in Miami is concerned, it has the most beautiful beaches, trendy nightlife and exuberant daylight. The environment in and around the city is super friendly and safe. Living in the city costs around $1300 to $1500 per month. Also, it is always better to stay off-campus as it is comparatively cheaper. The first few months are typically tricky. I experienced cultural shock and missed home so much that I came back to India after the first four months for almost a month but again, going back was even more difficult. It emotionally drains you to leave your family and go miles away, but then I knew that I have to make my decision of studying in the US successful and my parents proud.
n
The University of Miami has a Cultural society that celebrates every festival with greater joy and enthusiasm. Slowly and steadily, I made way in and celebrated all Indian festivals, including my first Diwali away from home. These little steps made me realize how long I have come. It even gave me a sense of pride and memories to cherish for a lifetime. Now, I have a home away from home and friends like family.
nn
The best part about studying here is that everything is online. It’s just you and your laptop. There is no need for carrying heavy books or relying on them. The university also arranges a lot of practical sessions, group projects and guest lectures by people of the same industry. One important tip for people planning to take their appliances with them: ‘Don’t!’. These appliances are incompatible with the electricity plugin and do not work. So it’s ideal to buy appliances from the US (only if you plan to stay for a more extended period).
n
Since I’m in the class of 2020, I had a virtual graduation ceremony recently. Thanks to Corona but honestly speaking, this situation has a crippling effect on the USA’s economy and the job market. Also, with Trump’s ‘No outsider Policy’, the situation might get worse. Here my university tries to help its students by posting job openings on their webpages, but it too has reduced. It’s not like there are no jobs left; instead, the vacancies have reduced, and the chances of selection are grim. Nevertheless, we cannot lose hope. When one door closes, God automatically opens the next door for us.
n
I would recommend every person to at least try once for studying or working away from home. This experience has changed me as a person. From being the most pampered child at home, I become the most independent and confident person. Even my friends here rely on me for every kind of support. In the end, it will always be about pushing and venturing beyond your limits”.
