“Don’t worry, everything will fall into place — this is going to be the best 3-4 years of your life.” These words capture the excitement, uncertainty, and hope that come with stepping onto foreign soil for higher education. For Aria Saxena, an Indian student at the University of Chicago, studying abroad was not just about academics, it was about discovering independence, embracing challenges, and building connections across cultures.
Every day presented new opportunities to learn, not just in the classroom but in life itself. From navigating unfamiliar cities to managing her own schedule, she learned the meaning of responsibility, curiosity, and resilience.
For students considering higher education abroad, her story offers insight into what awaits beyond admission letters and visa approvals.
Choosing the right university
“I ended up applying in UK and USA. US—applied through standard application and UK—applied through statement of purpose. Ultimately, I chose the US for its flexibility in the classes I wanted to take,” she recalls. Aria’s focus was on freedom — academic and personal, to design a journey that suited her aspirations.
For students, this highlights the importance of prioritizing what fits your learning style and goals rather than chasing rankings alone. Choosing a university that allows exploration and self-directed growth can shape not just your education but your overall development.
A different academic landscape
“The US focus is on research, you can design your own learning journey. Its learning process is holistic; you can explore classes not related to your major. It is amazing talking to the professors and asking them questions beyond class.” Beyond the classroom, Aria immersed herself in student-run organizations. “In the US, you join a lot of student-run organizations. There are STEM clubs, finance, music, dance, arts. It is great to experience.”
For students, this demonstrates that education abroad is multidimensional — academic flexibility, interdisciplinary learning, and extracurricular engagement all work together to cultivate curiosity, initiative, and confidence.
Growth through challenges
“You learn so much by throwing yourself into new challenges and uncomfortable solutions. It is highly recommended—go for higher classes, it’s an amazing experience to learn,” she says. Her advice is simple yet profound: The unfamiliar is where real growth happens. Students should embrace challenges and step outside their comfort zones, because the experiences that feel difficult often teach the most valuable lessons — problem-solving, adaptability, and resilience.
Campus life and cultural exchange
“We were made to explore Chicago as soon as we joined the campus. I got a chance to meet other international students as well. Exchanging experiences with them. Some of them have been my best friends now.” Independence and social learning came hand in hand. “I learnt how to navigate public transportation—felt independent. And while I did get homesick, I spoke to family members and friends through video calling. While you are here, say a casual ‘Hi’ to everyone—it’s a lot of fun to know about their life stories.”
For students, this underscores the importance of openness and curiosity in building connections, understanding different perspectives, and creating a supportive community away from home.
Living on campus
“There is a solid international body at U Chicago—it is great to explore such cultures. It’s easier to do so while you live on-campus. I stayed in one of the dorms. U Chicago has a very interesting system like that of Harry Potter, where we have houses, and we are sorted even before we get into college. That’s a great way to make friends.”
Students can take away that immersive campus experiences help develop social skills, cultural intelligence, and friendships that often last a lifetime. Choosing to live on campus can accelerate integration and exposure to diverse perspectives.
Housing and career guidance
“While deciding housing, go with your gut feeling. A lot of people recommend appliances should be there before you decide to move in. But just check for yourself, how do you fit in, and then go ahead with your decision.” Career services play a key role in her professional development. “Career services here are extremely robust—helps you grow professionally. They offer tailor application, interview, resume support and help you organize your career. Organizes job shadowing events—helps you narrow your interests.”
For students, the lesson is clear: Leverage institutional resources fully, both for practical needs like housing and for professional growth, because early awareness and engagement can define career trajectories.
Advice for aspiring students
“Make sure to check the resources they have before you are in college because help is available in every sphere. Your professors are always there to help you. The concept of office hours is really open where you can go and speak to them. It isn’t always about academic conversations. You can literally talk to them about anything in that subject area.”
Her overarching tip: “Try to balance your time for academic and social life because learning happens in both places. Make sure you immerse yourself in uncomfortable situations because that is where the learning happens—try and maintain that balance.” Students can take away that proactive engagement, curiosity, and balance are key to thriving academically and personally abroad.
The journey ahead
For Aria, studying abroad has been more than an academic pursuit. It has been a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and cultural exchange, a transformative experience that challenges, inspires, and shapes students intellectually and emotionally. From navigating new cities and making lifelong friendships to learning to trust herself and step into the unknown, every moment has contributed to a story of growth that extends far beyond grades and degrees.
For students considering this path, her experience is a reminder that studying abroad is as much about cultivating character, confidence, and perspective as it is about earning a diploma.
TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us
here.Select The Times of India as your preferred source on Google Search.
Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!