Shreetu Mohanty

Posts

The Hidden Power of Student Societies Abroad: How Clubs Shape Global Careers

When Indian students imagine studying abroad, they often focus on lectures, internships, and job placements. However, one of the most transformative parts of international education often happens outside the classroom — in student societies and campus clubs. Across global universities, student societies are not just extracurricular activities. They function as leadership labs, innovation hubs, and networking ecosystems. For many students, t hese organisations play a defining role in shaping confidence, career direction, and global exposure. Understanding how student societies work abroad can help Indian students maximise their international education experience. What Are Student Societies? Student societies are officially recognised campus organisations formed around: Academic interests Entrepreneurship Technology and innovation Cultural exchange Debate and public speaking Media and journalism Performing arts Social causes Consulting and finance Sports and wellne...

Understanding Academic References: How to Choose the Right Recommender for Your Study Abroad Application

When Indian students prepare their study abroad applications, they focus heavily on test scores, grades, and statements of purpose. One critical component that is often underestimated is the academic reference or letter of recommendation . Universities abroad treat recommendation letters as powerful insight into who you are beyond your transcripts. A well-chosen recommender can significantly strengthen your application, while a poorly selected one can weaken even a strong profile. Understanding how academic references work is essential for a competitive application. Why Recommendation Letters Matter Admissions committees review thousands of applications. Grades show academic performance, but recommendation letters reveal: Intellectual curiosity Classroom engagement Work ethic Research potential Leadership qualities Professional conduct These qualitative insights help universities assess your readiness for their academic environment. Who Should You Choose as...

Reverse Culture Shock: Why Coming Back to India After Studying Abroad Can Feel Harder Than Leaving

When students prepare to study abroad, most conversations revolve around adapting to a new country. But very few discussions focus on what happens after graduation — returning home. For many Indian students, coming back to India after living abroad can feel unexpectedly challenging. This experience is known as reverse culture shock, and it can affect emotional well-being, career adjustment, and social reintegration. Understanding this phenomenon helps students prepare not just for departure, but also for return. What Is Reverse Culture Shock? Reverse culture shock refers to the emotional and psychological adjustment that happens when someone returns to their home country after spending significant time abroad. Students may assume that returning home will feel natural and comfortable. Instead, they often experience: A sense of disconnection Frustration with familiar systems Difficulty relating to peers Identity confusion The change is subtle but real. W...

Digital Footprint Matters: How Your Online Presence Can Impact Your Study Abroad Journey

In today’s interconnected world, your online presence is more than just social media activity. For students planning to study abroad , a digital footprint can influence university admissions, scholarship evaluations, internships, and even post-study employment opportunities. Many Indian students focus on grades and test scores while ignoring the silent impact of their online identity. However, universities and employers increasingly value professionalism, credibility, and digital responsibility. Understanding how your online presence affects your study abroad journey is essential. What Is a Digital Footprint? A digital footprint includes everything about you that exists online, such as: Social media profiles Public comments and posts Blogs or personal websites Online portfolios Professional networking profiles Public forum activity Even content posted years ago can resurface during background checks. Do Universities Really Check Social Media? While no...

Understanding Intellectual Property Rules Abroad: What Indian Students Must Know About Ownership of Their Ideas

When Indian students plan to study abroad, they focus on academics, internships, and global exposure. One area rarely discussed is intellectual property (IP) — who owns the ideas, research, inventions, designs, or software you create during your degree. In many international universities, intellectual property policies are clearly defined and legally binding. Students who are unaware of these rules may unknowingly give up rights to innovations they worked hard to build. Understanding intellectual property systems abroad is especially important for students in engineering, technology, business, design, biotechnology, media, and research-based programs. What Is Intellectual Property in a University Context? Intellectual property refers to creations of the mind, such as: Research findings Software applications Business ideas and prototypes Engineering inventions Design projects Academic publications Creative works Universities abroad often have structured policie...

Gap Year Before Studying Abroad: Smart Career Move or Risky Decision for Indian Students?

For many Indian students, the idea of taking a gap year before studying abroad feels uncertain. Parents worry about “losing time,” students fear falling behind peers, and questions about visa approvals and university perception often arise. However, a well-planned gap year can strengthen a student’s profile , clarify career goals, and significantly improve admission chances at top international universities. The key is not whether you take a gap year — but how you use it. What Is a Gap Year in the Context of Studying Abroad? A gap year refers to a deliberate break taken after: Class 12 before starting undergraduate studies Graduation before pursuing a master’s degree A few years of work before returning to academics It is not inactivity. Instead, it is a structured period focused on growth, skill-building, or professional experience. When Does a Gap Year Make Sense? A gap year can be beneficial if: You are unsure about your course or career path You...