Excitement, euphoria, frenzy — I experienced the meaning of all these words put together because I am coming to India after a year of my graduate studies. Last year, this time, I was excited about going to the U.S. I guess this is why they say the grass is always greener on the other side.
Catching up
I expected a rosy life similar to a song shot in a foreign location. Away from home since my childhood, I thought it wouldn't be a big deal; but I realised it's an all new world out there. The first few assignments are Greek and Latin and by the time you get an idea of the education system, 50 per cent of the grading would be done. Right from paying the bills, cleaning your home, buying groceries and cooking is no more our parent's responsibility but ours!
Initially everything is intimidating but eventually you learn to enjoy it. There comes a necessity to adapt to the lifestyle there and meanwhile it's important to make your parents understand that you are not changing and make them feel comfortable with the transition. There is freedom, in the sense no one to watch you or question you. Then you realise that it's fun to break the rules but when you are given the liberty to do something you are endowed with a sense of responsibility and the thrill factor is completely lost. One year on, I have not just mastered in academics, but also learnt how to be independent.
It puts you down, makes you feel inefficient, takes you to the verge of quitting but in the end revives you with double the confidence you had and makes you bold. Now, I don't feel like a girl anymore but a ‘woman'!
Mahalakshmi, graduate student, USC.
