The landscape of pursuing a Master’s degree in the U.S. has dramatically shifted in recent years. What was once an enviable path to career success is now a juggling act of part-time jobs, weekend partying, and declining interest in education.
The motivations for Indian students pursuing a Master’s in the U.S. have evolved. In the past, studying abroad was limited to rich families, with students having clear academic and career goals. Today, middle-class students, supported by educational loans, are joining the ranks. However, this comes with immense financial and mental pressure.
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Many now view an MS as more of a job passport and a route to permanent residency rather than an academic pursuit. This shift became more pronounced after COVID-19, as students focused on getting jobs through the OPT program or hoping for H-1B visa selection.
Living in a new country offers freedom and excitement, which can overshadow the actual coursework. Academic rigor seems to take a back seat to financial and networking concerns in the face of growing competition and future uncertainty.
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For most international students, part-time work is not a luxury but a necessity. They depend on these jobs for basic living expenses. However, working during full-time studies can lead to academic struggles, burnout, and even legal issues due to visa restrictions.
While jobs like food delivery, retail, or campus gigs help pay bills, they rarely build relevant professional experience. Students face a Catch-22, needing part-time jobs for survival but also needing internships for better post-graduation job prospects. Balancing the two creates significant stress.
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Another burden international students face is the pressure of education loans. Many Indian students rely on hefty loans, expecting to secure high-paying jobs after graduation. But with an uncertain job market and recent layoffs, this expectation feels more risky.
Without job security, students face a ticking clock. OPT allows three years of work, but that window can close quickly without employment. Failing to secure an H1-B visa adds even more uncertainty, with the fear of returning home with debt and no U.S. job experience.
With growing financial stress and shifting priorities, students and professionals are beginning to question the value of an MS in the U.S. What was once seen as a guaranteed path to success is now a risky gamble, with survival often becoming the main focus.
Pursuing an MS in the U.S. has evolved from a straightforward academic journey into a complex mix of finances, visa issues, and lifestyle changes. As the higher education landscape shifts, students, universities, and policymakers must adapt to these new realities.
For many, it has now reached a point where pursuing an MS degree is like part-time jobs on weekdays, partying on weekends.
The MS degree is still valuable, but success is no longer guaranteed!
