Stepping into the Global Academic Arena
Event Report | VISA Episode #31
Speaker: Ms. Amrithavarshini Vethirajan (Alumna, Department of BBA, 2022–2025)
[Currently a Master of Management (Accounting) Student, University of Melbourne]
Today’s VISA Programme, [Virtual Interaction with Scholars Abroad] marks the 31st instalment of the ongoing VISA webinar series, continuing the initiative of the Deanery of International Programmes in connecting our current students with our illustrious international alumni.
During the VISA session today, Ms. Amrithavarshini shared from her personal journey and provided valuable advice for prospective international students, focusing heavily on the preparation process and profile development.
She said that, her motivation to study abroad was sparked by a one-semester study abroad experience at LeTourneau University, USA. The vibrant teaching methods, engaging assignments, and dynamic student-faculty interaction fundamentally shifted her perspective on global higher education, she observed.
While initially considering Germany, the challenge of achieving B2 language proficiency within four months prompted her to reorient her priorities, and hence she prioritised finding a secure environment, ultimately leading her to the University of Melbourne.
She emphasised that a strong profile speaks on the student’s behalf. Her successful application was supported by completing three internships, including a pivotal MNC internship encouraged by her Head of Department Dr. Armstrong Doss.
Seizing every opportunity is crucial, she remarked, and highlighted her active involvement in the Incubation Club, winning various competitions, and setting up artistic stalls during the “Excelsia” event.
Participation in student exchange programmes provides a significant competitive edge (acting as a 60-point advantage), while also offering invaluable opportunities to meet new people and gain transformative life experiences, she added.
On the strategies to be mindful of, during the application process, she said that, all academic and extracurricular experiences must be clearly articulated in the Statement of Purpose (SOP). Students should prepare for five to nine profile-based interview questions, maintain high academic scores, and carefully evaluate the Return on Investment (RoI).
The University of Melbourne maintains rigorous academic standards, utilizing assessment materials on par with institutions like Harvard.
While local transportation is highly accessible, the cost of living is steep, making shared housing advisable. She noted that students can manage expenses through part-time work (up to 96 hours a month) and scholarships, sharing that she successfully secured a scholarship of Rs. 20 lakhs.
The session concluded with a lovely message for all aspiring students! Comprehensive profile building is the key to higher studies, and students must have utmost clarity and preparation before stepping into the global academic arena, she signed off.
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