In the previous episode, we explored Arthika Venkatesh’s academic journey so far, university, course, reasons for pursuing higher education, research mechanism and entrance exams. In this episode, let’s understand her IELTS preparation, SOP, her experience with her education loan partner, her career plans and some invaluable tips.

Key Highlights

• How did she prepare for the IELTS?
• Engaging SOP is an essential criterion to secure a university spot
• Her experience with her education loan partner
• Her career plans
• Invaluable tips for study abroad aspirants from Arthika

Also Read: Complete Guide To Study In USA

How did she prepare for the IELTS?

Arthika had joined coaching classes for a month to be ready for IELTS. The classes helped her understand the format, the kind of questions that will be asked, the duration to allot for each question and section, etc. The mock tests enabled her to practice and assess her knowledge, skills, and readiness for the actual exam. Mock tests also assist you in identifying your areas of improvement. Arthika highly recommended the mock test so you can complete the exam on time. Her practice paid off as she achieved a great IELTS score.

Engaging SOP is an essential criterion to secure a university spot

Statement of Purpose (SOP) is an essay expressing your reasons for pursuing higher education at your preferred university, your inspiration to select your course, your academic background, etc. As part of the university application process, the admission committee will evaluate these documents to analyse your student profile. Your SOP should be convincing enough to be selected from the sea of applications universities receive.

• Some questions your SOP should answer
  • What influenced you to choose a specific domain?
  • What is your academic background?
  • Your scores throughout your academic journey so far.
  • Have you taken up any interesting projects during your academic journey?
  • Which extra-curricular activities did you explore?
  • Why did you select your preferred university, course and study abroad destination?

  Also Read: Entrance exams to study abroad: GRE, GMAT, IELTS, TOEFL, DET, and PTE

• Arthika’s tips for drafting an effective SOP
  • The overall tone of the SOP should be polite, and it should cover reasons why you would be an ideal student.
  • Add information related to internships (if any). Your hands-on experience will add more weightage to your SOP.
  • Avoid grammatical errors at all costs. So, ensure you proofread and share the document with your friends and family to check the mistakes you may have missed.

Her experience with her education loan partner

Arthika’s education consultant suggested two financial institutions, including Avanse Financial Services. She connected with both the lenders to understand the features, process and benefits of the education loans. After evaluating various aspects of both financial institutions, she chose to go ahead with Avanse Financial Services. At Avanse Financial Services, we advise the students to make contributions in the form of simple interest (SI)/partial interest (PI) during the moratorium period. As this is not an interest-free period, interest begins to accrue from day one. Paying SI/PI instills financially prudent habits, too. She found this flexible repayment option convenient for starting the repayment from day one, which impressed her further.

Also, she appreciated the team Avanse for being in constant touch and guiding her every step of the way. All her questions were always heard and politely answered, and doubts were instantly cleared. She highlighted the seamless student loan process, which enabled a hassle-free journey. 

Also Read: 5 best study abroad destinations 2024

Her career plans

F-1 student visa is valid for 5 years, and her course duration is 2 years. So, she is planning to utilise the rest of her three years working abroad to gain global exposure and pay off her education loan. After gaining rich experience, she will return to her home country to build a promising career ahead.

Invaluable tips for study abroad aspirants from Arthika

• Student visa application:

  No matter how nervous you feel, you must maintain a calm and confident demeanour during the visa interview. Also, keeping all your documents organised is necessary so you can share them whenever needed.

• Planning:

  Arthika highlighted that study abroad aspirants must begin the planning process a year in advance. This will allow you to plan your application process, prepare for your entrance exams and be ready with your documents.

• Gain clarity:

  Once you decide to embark on your overseas education, there should be no room for any doubts. If you have any queries at any stage of your journey planning, you can consult your friends & families, contact an education consultant or turn to online resources.

So, this brings us to the end of Arthika’s academic journey planning. If you find her journey inspirational, we encourage you to pursue your higher academic aspirations now! Don’t let the financial worries keep you from achieving your educational goals. You can opt for an educational loan for abroad studies and fund your education independently. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We will be glad to partner with you on your academic journey. All the best!