Three more Fijian students have graduated from one of India’s leading universities,Osmania University in Hyderabad. They were overwhelmed with congratulatory messages and well wishes as they completed their studies.

For 22-year-old Shelveen Kumar, making his parents proud was the major motivation behind his success.

“My whole family is on cloud nine. I have been away from them for three years and they are really proud of my achievement,” he said.

“I would like to acknowledge my parents for their support, words of encouragement and for being by my side.

“I also want to thank my lecturers and my friends especially the Tarnaka crew.”

The Bachelor of Commerce graduate reminisced about his experience in India saying although it was tough at the beginning, he was adamant on utilising the opportunities that came with studying abroad.

He added that the language barrier was the biggest problem he faced.

“I loved interacting with different types of people from different cultures.

“I learned how to be independent, how to do things on my own, especially money management.”

Further he hopes his experiences will help him to become more successful in the future.

“My experience here has provided me with the necessary tools to enhance my skills more, taught me valuable knowledge about this diverse world and people and it has shown me the importance of thinking critically and asking questions in many situations.”

Sharing similar sentiments was Vishwa Devan.

The 21-year-old graduated with a Bachelor of Science majoring in Mathematics, Computer Hardware and Computer Science.

He spoke highly of his mother who had been his pillar of strength and dedicated his achievement to her.

“The idea of living in India and studying for three years was not something I had planned earlier neither was it something I had expected,” Mr Devan said.

“But here I am at the end of my three years after graduation. It was a roller coaster ride for sure.

“It was a great experience from start to end and on the day of my graduation I had the feeling of achieving something while I was standing amidst the other graduates.”

Mr Devan advises future overseas college aspirants to overcome obstacles of settling in a new environment and to enjoy the once in a lifetime experience it offers.

Finally, as a graduate myself I would like to give reverence to the Almighty God for allowing me to complete my education regardless of all the hurdles I have had to face within the course of my studies.

I also acknowledge my family for their endless support as I pursued my Bachelor of Arts majoring in Mass Communication, Psychology and Sociology.

All three of us graduates are scholars of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations Scholarship programme.

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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