GOPIO Manhattan and the Indian Consulate General in New York hosted an event called "Meet and Greet Students from India" to foster connections between Indian students studying at American universities, provide them with mentoring opportunities, and raise awareness about the Consulate's services.
Students from many universities in the New York area, including Columbia, NYU, Tandon School of Engineering, Tauro, Pace, the New York Institute of Technology, Rutgers, the University of Pennsylvania, and as far as Boston, including Harvard and Babson, participated in person and via Facebook Live.
Deputy Consul General of India, Dr. Varun Jeph, who emphasized the role of international students in the bilateral partnership between India and the United States. Consul General Randhir Jaiswal addressed the students and highlighted the growing number of Indian students studying abroad, contributing to India's demographic dividend, and impacting global socio-economic and technological landscapes.
“In the United States, the concept of a knowledge partnership is extensive, and while there are challenges, there's a lot of positivity coming from India, such as the success of Chandrayaan and the historic visit of the Indian Prime Minister to Washington, resulting in new partnerships in technology and knowledge exchange. There's a strong focus on supporting the Indian student community in the U.S,” he said.
Students from different universities and colleges with Indian Consulate and GOPIO officials and speakers
Dr. Thomas Abraham, founder and chairman of GOPIO International and advisor to GOPIO Manhattan, recalled his own experience as an international student at Columbia University. “Back then, foreign students were assigned host families. However, in today's networked world, we are all connected through platforms like WhatsApp and social media. There are now 4.5 million people of Indian origin living in the United States, ready to support and guide you,” he told the students.
“The United States is a fantastic country that provides opportunities for all. You can pursue any path, whether it's a career in a large corporation, managing an investment fund, scientific research, teaching, or entrepreneurship,” he added encouraging the audience to pursue their passion and achieve their American dreams.
A panel discussion moderated by Dr. Nilanjan Sen, a professor of Finance in the School of Business at the University of Albany, State University of New York featured Dr. Mohini Mukherjee, the executive director of International Student Services at Rutgers, Debasis Sahu, partner Price Waterhouse Cooper (PwC), Prashanthi Reddy Esq. and Suruchi Saini, founder Holistic Bonfire LLC, a Board certified licensed professional counselor and tele mental health provider.
The discussion focused on the importance of understanding and following the guidelines to avoid legal issues and maintain a successful academic and professional journey in the United States. Each panelist shared their expertise with the students to enable them to tackle the challenges of an international student as well as build a prosperous career in future.
“My advice to you all is to dive wholeheartedly into your vision, explore and gather resources, and maintain a balance between your personal and professional growth. Challenges will arise, but with self-awareness and the ability to focus, you can overcome them. Keep emotions in check, stay logical and focused, and you'll not only overcome challenges but also be in a position to uplift those around you. Wishing you all the best!” Saini advised the youngsters.
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