A PhD student from Kolkata shares his experiences adapting to life in the United States, managing finances, and pursuing research at the University of Chicago’s Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering (UChicago PME).
Upon arriving in the US, the first priorities were basic needs like securing housing, getting a new phone, setting up a bank account, and applying for a credit card. “My Indian phone didn’t work, so I had to buy a new phone overnight,” he recalls. He also mentions the importance of setting up utilities like electricity and Wi-Fi if not already arranged, a task many international students face. “The university orientation was very helpful in guiding me through most of the official procedures,” he adds.
The biggest surprise, however, was the quarter system. “It was very different from the semester system I was used to. It’s fast-paced, requiring you to absorb a lot of information in a shorter time frame. On the plus side, it allows for more diversity in what you learn,” he explains. He also appreciates UChicago PME’s close ties with other institutions, both on-campus and off-campus.
Inspiration to Study in the US
Hailing from a lower-middle-class family in Kolkata, the student’s interest in science began early, but he also had a passion for literature and painting. Motivated by two high school teachers, he decided to pursue physics at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata (IISER Kolkata), a research-focused institution. His journey took him further when he received the DAAD Fellowship, which allowed him to conduct research in ultrafast optics in Germany.
The student’s passion for experimental optics led him to apply for graduate school, ultimately gaining acceptance at UChicago PME. “After discussing research with Asst. Prof. Alex High, whose lab I am now a part of, I knew this was the right place for me,” he says.
Navigating the Admission and Visa Process
The application process for a PhD program is rigorous, starting with the GRE and TOEFL exams. “I did summer internships at three different institutions throughout my undergrad, which really helped build my CV,” he advises. The application itself requires submitting test scores, grades, courses, and research experience, along with letters of recommendation from professors.
He also recommends reaching out to professors early, at least two to three months before the application deadline. “Emailing professors and establishing a connection can only help your application,” he notes.
Once accepted, students must send their official transcripts and apply for a visa (F1 visa for PhD students). With the I-20 form from the university, the visa application process can begin. “After securing the visa, the next step is finding accommodation, which is made easier with university-provided resources,” he explains.
Settling into Life Abroad
Having a friend at the university helped ease the transition. “My friend connected me with my roommate and even picked me up from the airport,” he recalls.
Managing finances was a new challenge. “In the hostel, everything was included, so I never had to worry about budgeting. Here, I had to figure out how much to allocate for rent, groceries, utilities, and savings,” he says. He emphasizes the importance of setting up a bank account and managing expenses effectively.
Financial Management Advice for International Students
To manage finances effectively in the US, he advises students to follow a few key practices:
Open a bank account and get a credit card: This helps build credit history.
Budget wisely: Allocate funds for essentials such as rent, bills, groceries, and Wi-Fi.
Save and invest: Set aside money for emergencies and learn about investment options.
Understand taxes and immigration responsibilities: Knowing how to file taxes and stay compliant with visa requirements is crucial.
He also highlights the value of attending university orientations, which provide important information for settling into life in a new country.
Through his journey, this PhD student from Kolkata has navigated numerous challenges, from adjusting to a new education system to managing finances abroad. His advice serves as a valuable guide for future international students.
