Key Insights on Higher Education in the USA
A Free-Wheeling Interview with Dr. Sanjay Purushotham, Dallas Baptist University
By Ms. Shrestha Ramesh
Program Intern, Office of International Programmes, MCC
On 24 June 2025, after a series of lectures by esteemed dignitaries in connection with the “Study Abroad Seminar” conducted by the Office of International Programmes, I had the great privilege of interviewing Dr. Sanjay Purushotham, India Liaison for International Affairs at Dallas Baptist University, Texas, US.
Having years of experience in mentoring students from diverse cultural backgrounds, he offered valuable information for students planning to study abroad.
Q: Good afternoon sir, has Chennai and our campus treated you well so far?
A: Absolutely, Shrestha. It’s been a very positive experience. I was last in Chennai before COVID, and coming back now, I see tremendous improvements — especially the metro and infrastructure. I'm very impressed with the city and its culture.
I’ve also visited MCC before, and it’s been wonderful to return. From Dr. Wilson to Dr. Rufus and the faculty and students here, all of you have been extremely hospitable. I’m very impressed with all your warm welcome. It’s been a pleasure coming back.
Q: According to you, what are the biggest advantages for Indian students who choose to study in the US?
A: The quality of education, diversity and infrastructure for education and research are definitely some of the factors which make the United States a great place to fulfill your dreams, career wise. The ample job opportunities for students also make USA a place worth considering for anyone serious about their growth.
Q: Apart from maintaining a good academic record, what are some of the extracurricular activities students should take part in?
A: Students should aim for holistic development. It’s important to stay physically active through sports, gym, or fitness. Most campuses offer these facilities.
A healthy body supports a healthy mind. Also, students should be open to learning, not just academically, but also spiritually and culturally. Understanding yourself, others, and even learning about God can be a part of your personal growth journey.
Q: Many students believe that studying abroad is only for the affluent people or the extremely brilliant. Do you believe that an average student with a strong dream can realistically pursue it?
A: Yes, I think when there is a will and a desire to genuinely pursue higher education to make a difference in the world, that passion, somehow God will provide for it and, you know, when you're driven with that passion to be a better person, make the world a better place, I'm sure God in His providence makes it possible to pursue that dream.
Of course, it takes effort — nothing falls from the sky. You have to work hard. There will be sacrifices in the beginning, but many campuses offer part-time jobs that help manage expenses. You can work up to 20 hours a week.
Once you graduate, there are job opportunities waiting for you. If you stay focused and avoid distractions, your investment will pay off. And if you take a loan, it can be repaid once you begin working. So many campuses, I mean, offer job opportunities while you're a student.
You can work up to 20 hours a week to offset some expenses. As I said, United States students have plenty of opportunities to find jobs and so, as I said, if you work hard, opportunities will be waiting for you. If you waste your time and be idle and get into bad habits, then you're losing all the investment. So, invest in yourself, in hard work and you will not be disappointed when it all pays off.
The candid responses by Dr. Sanjay are truly inspiring and make it clear that international education isn’t just a dream for the privileged, but an opportunity for anyone willing to put in the effort.
His words highlight that beyond academics, what matters most is character, effort, and the willingness to grow.
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