Students bound for US get tips before departure

HYDERABAD: Underlining the quality education provided by US universities and campus recruitment, a few city-based students who finished their higher education in the US, said it is the best destination to pursue various courses at graduation and post-graduation level. They were speaking during a pre-departure orientation for students going to the US for their higher studies, organised by the US Consulate General in association with UNITI Foundation on Friday. Chitra Sanam, who finished her master’s in Journalism and Mass Communication in the US, said discussions between students and teachers related to curricula are more the norm in classrooms than regular teachings. Another student, Rakesh, who completed his master’s in Environmental Science said students bound for the US should have complete information about the university where they obtained admission. “Every university has alumni and international student advisor to help foreign students with courses and other things. Most master’s degrees are designed as two years of full-time study, although the time may vary depending on the subject, structure of the program and whether the degree is pursued on a full or part-time basis,” said Rakesh.Jeremy Jewett, vice-consul said students going to the US should carry all kinds of certificates and coordinate with immigration officials before departure and after arrival at the destination. “Every student should comply with the US government, police and university rules and carry their passport wherever they go,” he added. He said the pre-departure orientation session helps students to get proper knowledge about US culture, heritage and rules being implemented by universities. “Students gaining admissions into US universities should find a place to stay before they go. There are college dormitories, independent houses, group houses, apartments and shared rooms,” Jewett said. He also advised students to have a clear idea on what luggage could be carried on person and what had to be checked-in. “Visa, passport, money, medications, important visa documents, contact information, medical records, immunisation records and photos should always be carried on person,” he said.