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Be prepared for a strenuous work load Boston University

ratingOverall experience

I would advise anyone planning to come to America for graduate study to apprise themselves of the academic system and also to be prepared for a strenuous work load. Undergraduates need not worry too much; life is relatively easier for them in America than it is in India.

ratingSelection process and gaining admission

The only exams I gave were the standardized tests like GRE and TOEFL and I prepared for them on my own with the help of guides like Princeton Review, Barrons and Kaplan. I attended no coaching classes and hired no counsellors to assist me with the application process. I did need a visa and the interview seemed to me more of a formality than anything else, everything was easy and convenient besides the actual waiting time at the consulate. Getting tickets to Boston was not a hassle at all - it is a major city and many airlines fly to it. I flew Continental Airlines which I hated because of bad service, bad food, uncomfortable seats and very limited baggage allowance even for students. The Boston Logan International Airport is a 25-30 minute drive from Boston University. There was no meet and greet service offered by BU for arriving students and I faced no immigration issues.

ratingFunding and scholarships

The university does not offer too much financial aid to international students but we are offered assistantships and jobs.

ratingYour study experience

I am very pleased with the educational system there. The professors are the top in my field and internationally known so that helps my case. The lecture halls are great as are the 4 full libraries and many other college libraries we have on campus.

ratingYour life experience

I am living off-campus in an apartment building. Our university is also renowned for the fitness, recreation and sports facilities it offers and our teams have won national laurels. It is relatively easy to get a part-time job on campus but following the 9/11 disaster, international students are not allowed to work off-campus. Many still manage to though. The social scene in Boston is great as it is primarily a student town so we have a very active nightlife; there are countless restaurants, pubs and clubs to choose from. Boston University has a very helpful international students society that takes care of many orientation sessions for new students at the beginning of the semester and other events on adjusting in America throughout the academic session.

ratingJob prospects

My university has no formal placement cell but if professors are impressed with a certain student and he/she has taken out the time to network, that can always help them land a job interview, if not a job. It was easier for an international student to get a job, but not after the recession took over. Hopefully, that should get back to normal soon. There are career fairs and networking events held regularly by the university career services, which may or may not be attended by other universities/colleges. There is an alumni society too and they are also of help during the placement process, provided the student has taken the time and effort to network. I do not how easy/difficult the work permit authorization process is since I have not yet started applying for one.

Boston University

Located in Massachusetts.

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Ranking for this institution

• SHJT: 76

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