May 26, 2003 05:03 AM
12178 Views
(Updated May 26, 2003 05:07 AM)
I came to the US last fall (2002) to pursue an MS/PhD in Electrical Engineering. For all that I had heard about this country before coming here, I must say I've had a pretty comfortable time - the place has treated me quite well, and I haven't (yet) faced any kind of discrimination (of course, I'm in California, one of the supposedly more ''liberal'' states). I enjoy my studies and work, but I must admit my social life has become something of a non-existent entity!
There are many good things about education here, including a very open atmosphere, enormous amount of resources, and highly qualified and helpful faculty (this opinion is based entirely on my experiences - others may contradict!). Many people argue that such facilities are available back home as well - which is no doubt true - but the problem is that there are too few openings compared to the number of people competing and as a consequence many good students do not get what they deserve - they end up studying in second-rate institutions which stifle their growth.
Studying here also gives you the opportunity to interact with people from many different backgrounds and countries, and gives you a much better perspective of how different people think, which, I believe, is very important for ones' all-round development.
Of course, it isn't a cakewalk once you get here! You have to work really hard and the system can be somewhat different (depends on your area and background). Plus you have to manage everything yourself (money, laundry, house, etc.) and that can be quite a pain if you've not lived alone before - but most people adjust quite quickly. And if you can't live without Mom's food, you'll have some trouble!
(Bwaaa... I want to go home already!)
Lastly, this country is not Utopia, and has its fair share of problems - not the least of which is ''safety'', esp. if you're in a big city like Los Angeles. It takes some time to understand that people can stop you when you're walking on the street and demand that you hand over your belongings! Luckily it hasn't happened to me so far, but you have to always be careful. (I remember I used to walk around in Bombay quite late at night without any of these thoughts)
Working here is a totally different issue, I guess, but for education alone, I would certainly recommend that you come here if you can. But again, it makes sense only if you're going to an accredited university that has a good reputation in your field.
Good luck with your decision!
