International student experience at University of Memphis

University of Memphis

7.2(4 Reviews)

University of Bridgeport

7.2(6 Reviews)

Reason for choosing my college

• The University of Memphis holds prestigious Carnegie R1 research status, placing it among the nation's elite research universities. I provide exceptional academic opportunities with low tuition fees compared to Bridgeport.
• Memphis provides a vibrant campus experience with several student organizations and unique programs. Memphis's cost of living is much more affordable than Bridgeport's.

University of New Haven

7.0(14 Reviews)

Saint Louis University

8.1(6 Reviews)

Reason for Rejection

• I have applied to 4 universities: the University of Memphis, the University of New Haven, Saint Louis University, and the University of Bridgeport. Of all these universities, I got accepted by the University of Memphis and the University of Bridgeport, but I haven't heard from the other two universities.

• Highlight your Academic achievements. In SOP, explain your motivation for choosing the specific program and how it aligns with your career goals. Showcase your relevant experience.
• Request recommendations from professors who know your academic and personal strengths. Include well-organized CV

• The United States is renowned for its world-class universities, diverse academic programs, and global recognition of its degrees.
• The University of Memphis is recognised in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. It is consistently listed among the top public universities in the US.
• UofM offers a wide range of highly ranked programs, which match my academic interests and career goals. Memphis is a city that is affordable to live in and has access to major employers like FedEx and St. Jude.

• The class schedule depends on the classes you register for, as it is flexible to choose. Usually, there will be 3 to 4 classes per week. Class timings also depend on the registration of classes of your choice.
• On average, there will be around 30 students in a class. For Spring 2024, around 200 Indian students registered for the MS in Data Science program.

• With its 156:1 student-faculty ratio, the university offers personalized attention and fosters significant interaction among students and professors. According to the Princeton Review, Memphis professors say, "stay after class for any clarification of doubts" and place academic and personal well-being foremost for students. The university also recognizes exceptional teachers with awards.

• The University of Memphis operates two campuses: the Main Campus and the Lambuth Campus.
• Available facilities: The McWherter Library, R. Brad Martin Student Wellness Center, Student Health Center
• Main Campus – The university's Homecoming Week is a highlight Students can join groups spanning academic, cultural, and recreational interests. The Tiger Zone database serves as a central hub for exploring Registered Student Organizations, tracking memberships, and discovering events.

• Most Indian students in the US prefer working part-time on-campus roles such as library assistants, teaching or research assistants, Graduate assistants, campus tech support, desk assistants, and positions in university cafes or bookstores. These jobs are popular because they comply with F-1 regulations, are easily accessible through university portals, and offer flexible hours that fit with academic schedules.

• The University of Memphis offers a variety of part-time opportunities on and off campus for students with reasonable pay. TA/RA/GA positions are primarily available for graduate students and some advanced undergraduate students.
• Hourly wages for on-campus jobs typically range from $9 to $13, depending on the job and level of responsibility. International students on F-1 visas are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions.

• Approximately 70-80% of MS Data Science graduates secure a job within 6 months after graduation. Most graduates earn between $85k and $120k per year in their first full-time positions, depending on the industry, location, and prior experience.
• Many students connect with employers through university career fairs, networking events, and on-campus interviews. Students use online platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, Handshake, etc. Lowest salary = ~$75,000 Highest salary = ~$140,000

• I primarily used online platforms such as apartments.com, uhomes.com, and apartmentlist.com to browse available student apartments close to campus. I also joined student groups on social media (Facebook, WhatsApp) where students shared recommendations, available listings, and roommate requests.
• One of the biggest challenges was verifying the quality and safety of apartments from abroad. Many listings looked good online but required in-person visits to confirm their condition and location. Start your search early – preferably several months before your arrival – to have more options and time to compare prices and amenities.