Journey from India to the USA – My Inspiring Real Student Story (2025) . Growing up in India, I often dreamed of studying abroad. The idea of flying to the USA, studying in world-class universities, and building a life from scratch was both thrilling and terrifying. In 2023, I finally made that leap.

This is the story of how I went from a middle-class home in India to building a new life as a student in the United States — not just about academics, but about courage, homesickness, discovery, and growth.

The Decision That Changed Everything

In my final year of B.Tech in Delhi, I started thinking seriously about studying in the USA. The Indian education system gave me the foundation, but I craved international exposure, world-class research, and the chance to explore a new culture.

Why I Chose the USA:

• High-quality education & global recognition

• Research opportunities in AI & Data Science

• Cultural diversity & personal freedom

• Pathway to Optional Practical Training (OPT) & work experience

Chapter 2: Conquering the Application Process

The journey began with exam prep and college applications.

Exams I Took:

• GRE – Scored 318

• TOEFL – Scored 105

• Duolingo – Also accepted by some universities

Universities I Applied To:

• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

• Arizona State University

• SUNY Buffalo

• University of Southern California (USC)

• Northeastern University

Key Tips:

• Start early (at least 9–12 months before intake)

• Craft a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP)

• Highlight your projects & internships

• Get good LORs (Letters of Recommendation)

Chapter 3: The Visa Interview – Nerves & Victory

Visa interviews are a huge deal for every Indian student.

My Process:

• Filled the DS-160 form

• Paid SEVIS & Visa fee

• Scheduled interview at the US Embassy (New Delhi)

Interview Question Highlights:

• Why this university?

• What is your academic background?

• Who is sponsoring you?

• What will you do after graduation?

Outcome:

F1 Visa Approved! (August 2023)
The officer smiled and said, “Congratulations, your visa is approved!”
I couldn’t believe it — that one moment changed my life.

Chapter 4: The Flight, First Landing & Initial Culture Shock

Leaving India was emotional — my family cried, I had butterflies, but my heart was full of hope.

First Flight Experience:

• Airline: Qatar Airways

• Route: Delhi → Doha → Boston

• Duration: ~20 hours

• Carrying: Pressure cooker, maggi, and pickles 😄

🇺🇸 First Impressions in the USA:

• Clean streets, quiet airports

• Everyone follows rules

• Strangers smile at you (a bit weird at first)

Chapter 5: Adjusting to Student Life in the US

My university life began with a mix of excitement and confusion.

Academics:

• Professors are helpful but expect self-study

• Homework is weekly, not once-a-semester

• Group projects are a norm

• Labs and resources are top-notch

Living Situation:

• Shared apartment near campus

• $600/month rent split with roommates

• First time cooking, doing laundry, and budgeting

Chapter 6: Surviving the Cultural Transition

Lifestyle Differences:

• You walk more, even with no rickshaws

• DIY culture: cook, clean, fix on your own

• You call professors by first names (Dr. Smith, not “Sir”)

First Winter Experience:

• Temperature dropped to -10°C in Boston

• Snow everywhere! First time using thermal wear

• Missed mom’s chai badly 🫖

Food Adventures:

• Tried Taco Bell, Chipotle, Panda Express

• Cooked dal-chawal at home

• Grocery runs to Indian stores 30 mins away!

Chapter 7: Finding Friends & Building a Life

Social Life:

• Joined Indian Student Association

• Celebrated Diwali with 200 desis on campus

• Potlucks, cricket tournaments, study groups

Part-Time Job:

• On-campus library assistant

• $15/hour, 20 hours/week (legal F1 limit)

• Helped cover rent and groceries

Chapter 8: First Internship – Dream Turning Real

I applied to 50+ companies during summer. After many rejections, I landed a Summer Internship at a FinTech startup in NYC.

What Helped Me Get Hired:

• Optimized LinkedIn profile

• Networking at student events

• Learning Python, SQL & Tableau

This was my first US income — it felt surreal.

Chapter 9: Homesickness, Growth & Realizations

Low Moments:

• Festivals without family

• Roommate drama

• Exam stress + part-time work pressure

What Kept Me Going:

• Weekly video calls with family

• Meditation & journaling

• Support from desi friends and university counseling

Lesson: Growth is painful but beautiful.
I came here to get a degree — but I gained confidence, independence, and self-worth.

🇺🇸 Chapter 10: What I’d Tell Other Indian Students

Tips from My Real Experience:

1. Plan finances carefully – USA is expensive

2. Build soft skills – Communication is key

3. Don’t compare your journey – Everyone struggles

4. Make international friends – Learn from all cultures

5. Explore travel & life – Don’t just study 24×7

Conclusion: From India to the Land of Dreams

My journey from India to the USA wasn’t smooth — it was a rollercoaster of fears, wins, failures, and personal growth. I didn’t just get a degree here, I found my voice, my tribe, and a clearer vision of who I want to become.

To every student dreaming of studying in the USA: you can do it. Prepare smart, stay strong, and embrace the unknown — your best life might just be a flight away.

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FAQs – Journey from India to USA as a Student

Q1. How much money do I need to study in the USA?

Ans: $30,000 to $60,000 per year including tuition, rent, food, and insurance.

Q2. Is it hard to get F1 visa?

Ans: No, if your documents and intent are clear. Be honest and confident in the interview.

Q3. Can I work on an F1 visa?

Ans: Yes, up to 20 hrs/week on campus. You can also do internships under CPT/OPT rules.

Q4. Did I regret moving?

Ans: Never. It was hard at times, but 100% worth it for the growth and exposure.

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US Student Visa Info (Official US Govt. Website)