Mastering Higher Education and Careers Abroad: Expert Insights for Indian Students

Career development abroad can be a challenging yet rewarding experience, especially for students aspiring to break into fields like fintech, project management, or IT. With global job markets becoming increasingly competitive, it’s essential for students to not only excel academically but also develop their leadership, networking, and technical skills. To gain insights into managing this balance, we spoke with Shoaib A., a seasoned IT and finance professional with over a decade of experience. Shoaib is pursuing a Master’s in Project Management at Golden Gate University, where he also serves as Vice President of Education and Secretary of the Student Government Association.

In this Q&A, Shoaib shares his strategies for balancing academic and leadership responsibilities, building a professional network, and excelling in industries like fintech and project management. He also provides actionable advice for students looking to make a mark in the global job market.

Read what Shoaib has to say about: Finding accommodation in US as an international student

Q1: With your rich experience in IT and finance, what prompted you to further your education with a Master's in Project Management?

After a decade of working in finance and IT, I realized that while my expertise in these fields was solid, there was a clear gap in my management and leadership skills. As I progressed in my career, it became obvious that to move forward into more managerial roles, I needed a deeper understanding of project execution, resource optimization, and stakeholder management. I wanted to develop the skills necessary to drive organizational success. That’s why I chose this master's program—it's a transformative experience that will help me grow both personally and professionally.

Q2: Balancing academic and leadership roles can be challenging. What strategies have helped you manage your responsibilities effectively while studying abroad?

Yes, it is definitely challenging, but I've enjoyed it because it’s a skill I wanted to master. I’ve adopted a few strategies to manage my academic and leadership roles:

• Prioritization: By identifying and focusing on the most urgent tasks, I ensure both my academic and leadership responsibilities are addressed efficiently.
• Effective Time Management: I use time-blocking, which has been a game-changer. Allocating specific time slots for studying and leadership duties maximizes productivity and reduces procrastination.
• Delegation: Sharing responsibilities with team members has been essential. By fostering collaboration, I ensure that I have enough time for both academics and leadership roles.

These strategies, combined with flexibility and adaptability, have allowed me to balance both roles effectively.

Q3: Fintech is at the intersection of finance and technology. How has your background prepared you for advancements in this field, and what skills do you see as essential for newcomers?

Having a BTech in computer science helped me get into the world of software, but my passion for finance led me to pursue further education and certifications in this field. Early on, I attended conferences, followed industry leaders, and completed certifications to specialize in wealth management and capital markets. For newcomers, I suggest starting with the basics of finance. Zerodha Varsity is an excellent resource—it’s free and covers both beginner and advanced concepts.

The most essential skills include:

• Understanding finance fundamentals
• The ability to stay updated on market trends
• Learning to specialize in a specific niche within fintech

Q4: Could you share an experience that significantly shaped your academic or professional journey while studying at Golden Gate University?

During my time at Golden Gate University, I held various leadership positions, including Vice President of Education and President of the Project Management Club. I also attended Project Management Institute (PMI) conferences and built a strong network in the field. These roles helped refine my leadership and organizational skills, and attending conferences broadened my perspective on project management. These experiences collectively strengthened my commitment to making a positive impact through project management strategies.

Q5: In your opinion, how important is mentorship for students navigating their study abroad journey, and how do you contribute to this as a mentor?

Mentorship is incredibly important. Unlike in India, where jobs are mostly advertised openly, in the U.S., over 75% of positions are filled through internal referrals. Mentors can help you navigate this process, adapt to the job market, and overcome visa-related limitations. As a mentor, I guide students through these challenges, helping them network effectively and plan their career paths in the U.S.

Also read Visa journey of Shoaib from India to US

Q6: Choosing the right university and program is crucial for study abroad aspirants. What advice would you give to students in this decision-making process?

Choosing the right program is far more important than focusing solely on the university. You need to be genuinely interested in your chosen field to gain deep expertise. In the U.S., employers prioritize skills over the reputation of the university, so pick a program that excites you and aligns with your career goals. As long as you’re in a decent university, the key factor is your skill set, which is what recruiters are most interested in.

Q7: Networking is key in any career, more so abroad. What tips can you offer for building and leveraging professional networks in a new country?

Networking is crucial, especially in the U.S. Join professional communities relevant to your field—like I did with PMI (Project Management Institute). Attending conferences is also a great way to network, and volunteering is a smart way to attend expensive events for free. For example, I volunteered at conferences like ProductCon and Dreamforce, which helped me build strong connections with professionals in my field.

Q8: For students aiming to break into the fintech sector, what preparatory steps would you recommend during their time at university?

Students should connect with finance professors, join finance clubs, and attend industry conferences to meet professionals in the field. LinkedIn is an excellent platform for staying connected with these professionals. I also recommend taking additional courses, like the Symbiosis-Imarticus Fintech Program, to deepen your knowledge and skills. Building strong relationships with professors can also lead to opportunities for internships or even jobs through referrals.

Q9: Reflecting on your role within the Student Government Association, how do you believe leadership roles impact a student's personal and professional growth?

Serving as Vice President of Education in the Student Government Association gave me real-world experience in applying project management principles. I was responsible for collecting and presenting student concerns to the administration, which required consistent communication and follow-up. These experiences have been invaluable in teaching me patience, professionalism, and leadership, all of which contribute significantly to both personal and professional growth.

Q10: Lastly, what's one piece of advice you'd like to share with aspiring students looking to make a mark in the global fintech industry through higher education?

Choose a curriculum that includes fintech courses and aim to study in a city with a thriving fintech industry, like New York or California. If you don’t have a finance background, certifications can help fill that gap and enhance your credentials. Also, build strong relationships with your professors—they can open doors to internships and job opportunities through their industry connections.

Conclusion

Shoaib’s insights provide valuable guidance for students navigating higher education and careers in the U.S. His emphasis on mentorship, networking, and building the right skills is a testament to his commitment to both personal and professional growth. Whether you’re aspiring to break into the fintech sector or pursue project management, Shoaib’s advice offers a roadmap for success in the competitive global job market.