Talk to your professors, express your interests, and “Don’t hesitate to ask questions!” ❤️

From the Classroom to Space: A Guide to Studying Abroad 

VISA Programme

Episode # 29 | A Report

Mr. Rabin William, our illustrious alumnus from the Dept of Physics (Aided), delivered an inspiring and highly informative presentation in the VISA Programme’s 29th Episode, today, at 7.30 pm IST via Zoom Platform.

Rabin gave a meticulous presentation detailing his career trajectory and also offered a roadmap for our current students who are aspiring to study abroad.

Currently based in Dublin, Ireland, Rabin works as a Space Systems Engineer and Product Lead at InnaLabs, developing gyroscopes and accelerometers for space navigation for major clients like the European Space Agency (ESA) and AIRBUS.

A few lovely takeaways from his talk – that outlined on how he navigated the journey from a bachelor’s degree to a successful career in the space industry.

Rabin began his academic journey studying BSc Physics at Madras Christian College (MCC) with a focus on the practical side of space science. Initially, he had no plans to study abroad and was focused on passing the IIT JAM to pursue a Master’s degree at an IIT or NIT before moving into industry.

However, his trajectory shifted dramatically when he attended a study abroad talk during his 3rd year. This inspired him to shift his focus to Plan B: pursuing an MSc abroad, he said.

To successfully transition abroad, Rabin outlined a structured five-step preparation strategy.

Seek out topics that genuinely interest you, visualize your ideal day-to-day work life, and speak with professionals in that field.

Research top universities in your fields of interest, attend study abroad fairs, and utilize platforms like QS TopUniversities, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Dedicate time to passing language exams like IELTS/TOEFL (which he self-prepared for daily), writing a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP), and gathering academic transcripts and Letters of Recommendation.

Aim for scholarship applications by targeting early deadlines between December and March for the Fall (September) intake.

Keep a master list tracking all university-specific deadlines and requirements, 

he exhorted our students. 

On the Course Realities in Ireland, he said that - 

For students who are considering Ireland, Rabin provided a candid assessment of the current master’s degree landscape with respect to Ireland -

Computer Science, Software & AI programs are “saturating fast”.

Data Science & Business Analytics are considered “oversaturated”.

Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology (including Biomedical Engineering) offer “decent” prospects.

Finance, FinTech & Accounting remain a “good” choice.

Master’s programs are usually completed in one year over three semesters, but students should be prepared for the fact that coursework is roughly 80% self-study. A crucial piece of advice was to opt for an internship in the final semester, especially since there are no campus placements provided by the university; students must navigate the job market themselves.

Getting an unconditional offer letter is a prerequisite for what Rabin calls “the real deal” - the visa application.

Engaging a consultancy is recommended, but applicants should choose their own university and avoid paying consultancy fees, as these agencies are usually compensated by their partner institutions.

The visa application takes at least 1-2 months, and providing clear, comprehensive financial proofs is vital, as many applications are rejected due to insufficient documentation.

Living abroad requires strict budgeting. For the 2025/2026 academic year, students should anticipate monthly living costs (excluding tuition) between €950 and €1,250. 

Rent is the most significant factor - 

Dublin: €720-880

Cork: €580-730

Galway: €520-670

Limerick: €480-630

Waterford: €420-520

Finally, a successful study abroad experience goes beyond academics. Rabin encouraged students to enrich their university life by making international friends, joining student societies (like the UCD International Students Society, Game Soc, or Physics Society), and deeply exploring the local culture. He also highlighted the importance of networking through alumni events, job fairs, and utilizing the university’s career centre.

To strengthen a CV, he urged students to build personal projects, attend workshops, and participate in hackathons. In fact, his own involvement paid off significantly when his team, the ‘Irish Moonquakers,’ won a NASA Space Apps Challenge in Dublin.

And his ultimate piece of advice for ambitious students?

Talk to your professors, express your interests, and “Don’t hesitate to ask questions!”,

he signed off.

More than 40 students had turned up online, along with Rabin’s past professors, past VISA speakers, and our alumni as well.

Dr. Jacob George, Dept of Physics facilitated the student interactions. Mr. Mathew Alex, II MA Political Science did the MC, and Dr. Serena coordinated the Programme on behalf of the Office of International Programmes, MCC.