Being an Indian Student at a United States University

Changing your base of operations from India to the United States of America (USA) to study might be a big transition. Especially if it’s your first time away from home. Life in the United States might be a culture shock at first, but your student life in the United States will undoubtedly be a cross-cultural experience from which you will benefit. The environment will differ depending on the location of the institute where you intend to study. You can find comfort in familiar surroundings or immerse yourself in a whole new environment and learn from the contrasts. At initially, there will be a cultural divide, but this can be readily addressed.

Here are some ways that living in the United States differ for an Indian student while studying abroad:

• Climate

Regardless of what degree of education you want to pursue in the United States, you may experience an initial sense of overwhelming. America’s topography and climate are vastly different. The type of clothing you should wear and the weather you should expect vary depending on where you are. Examine the temperature in the city where your school is located and arrange your clothing appropriately.

• Culture America’s culture is varied

You may encounter more non-Americans than Americans. Pay attention to the people around you and behave accordingly. At your institution, you’ll meet individuals from many walks of life, and it’s ideal if you alter yourself to fit in. To reduce any shock, it’s a good idea to keep in touch with friends and family from home regularly and it’s also a good idea to discover similar-interest clubs in your region so you can quickly reach out to them.

Finding like-minded people who have similar hobbies such as sports, music, literature, or even cuisine will be pretty comforting. Most institutes have international office staff that will be able to assist you with your transition.

• Holidays and Customs

Participating in holiday rituals is one way to learn more about the culture. New Year’s Day (January 1), Martin Luther King Jr. Day (3rd Monday in January), St. Patrick’s Day (March 17), Memorial Day (Last Monday in May), Independence Day (July 4), Halloween (October 31), Thanksgiving Day (last Thursday in November), and Christmas Day are all important days in the United States (December 25).

• Communication

When communicating, it is critical to be direct. When requesting or asking for anything, you should not hesitate or doubt, as confidence plays a vital role in your body language and communication. Though it is polite to decline food or drink, say ‘Yes,’ because it may not be provided again if you truly desire it.

Because Indians talk quicker than Americans, speak slowly and clearly to avoid having your message distorted by your accent.

• Why Do Indians Prefer the United States?

Despite the dropping Indian rupee, Indians prefer to study in the United States because of on-campus resources such as technology, tools, infrastructure, atmosphere, experienced professors, and possibilities, many of which are still in their infancy in India. The increase in the US dollar value does not exceed the high level of education you may expect.

Due to visa limitations, the slowing US economy, and an increasingly difficult employment market, the number of Indian students in the United States of America may have decreased. Nonetheless, in terms of the number of overseas students pursuing higher education and research in the United States, India is behind China. This is also made feasible via educational loans and scholarships that are made accessible.

• Consistently putting in the effort

Even if you intend to study in the United States, you must first be informed about your profession. In India, everyone is exposed to a lot of academic knowledge but falls short regarding actual abilities. It is primarily due to the way most Indian institutions and universities develop their curricula. So be ready before you go into an American University classroom!

In the United States, education is more participatory and hands-on, and you may find it simpler to learn through this demonstrative and visual learning technique. It is not always more difficult to study, but it is different. A smaller number of subjects might lead to more in-depth and comprehensive examination.

• Expenses

Because living in the United States can be costly, it’s critical to learn how to be self-sufficient and cost-effective, particularly when domestic duties (such as cleaning, laundry, and cooking) and errands (like shopping, paying the bills, and budgeting funds). Many students work part-time jobs to supplement their income while studying. Some students work two or three part-time jobs while others work in shifts.

If you are used to preparing Indian food, it is helpful to know the basic spices used and find these spices. Because Indian cuisine is famous in the United States, finding a business that sells it should not be difficult. Essential foods like deal, roti, rice, and gravy are the foundation of an Indian diet, and knowing how to make them is crucial.

• Accommodation

Your lodging options include on-campus or off-campus rooms or dorms with other students. Most colleges offer campus housing offices that can help you discover an excellent place to live, as well as information on restaurants, parks, shopping areas, laundry shops, libraries, and other amenities. On-campus accommodation is handy for academic and social activities, and many students opt to live on campus during the first few months of their studies. Dormitories are also an excellent choice because they eliminate the need for gas, electricity, water, and internet. It will benefit you if you live close to the school not to spend money on transportation needlessly.

• Time Management

Time Management is a valuable ability to have, especially whether you live alone or with others, because you will need to find time to manage your academics and domestic tasks, especially if household help is unavailable or prohibitively expensive. Days can be stressful, and you must organize your time to deal with even when unexpected occurrences occur.

• Safety

Although safety cannot be guaranteed in any nation, it is prudent to use common sense and avoid dark corners. When out in public, stay in well-lit places and stick with a small group of individuals you know. Many parts of the United States are heavily patrolled and watched. In some areas, such as malls, cameras and detectors are installed. So be sure you don’t act suspiciously to draw unwanted attention. While Americans are known for their openness, they can also be quite secretive. Make sure you don’t give out any information on your bank accounts, passwords, ATM pins, social security numbers, or anything else.

It’s critical to be loyal to yourself no matter where you are. Many Indians are concerned about losing their Indian identity while transitioning to a new environment, but it is critical to maintaining your value system and ideals after you arrive. When you eventually get to the United States, remember your goal and portray yourself in the best light possible.

Conclusion: 

While living in the United States can be a culture shock at first. Your student life in the United States will almost certainly be a cross-cultural experience from which you will benefit. The environment may differ depending on the location of the institute where you intend to study. At initially, there will be a cultural divide. To know more about America students can take help of top quality essay help service.

Author’s bio:

The author is a professional researcher, researching about students and their academic lives. He loves reading books in his spare time and is recently venturing in a documentary of students’ lives. He takes keen interest in assisting students with online assignment help.