university formalities

Successful 27th Annual Pre-Departure Orientation for Indian Students joining Master Degree in the US for Fall 2024

Dilip Oak's Academy
Pre-Departure Orientation

On June 16th, 2024, Dilip Oak’s Academy, in association with HDFC Credila, hosted its annual Pre-Departure Orientation for students joining US universities for master’s degrees in August 2024 (Fall semester). This long-standing tradition, held since 1998, took place at Siddhi Banquet Hall, Pune and attracted around 1100 students and parents, making it one of the largest events of its kind in India.

Distinguished Guests and Key Insights

The event was graced by esteemed guests Dr. David Alexander, Dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Science, Ms. Tasha Alexander, Director of International Student Services, both from California State University, Chico, and Ms. Sarika Oak, Senior Director, Udemy Inc., San Francisco. Their presence added significant value to the orientation, providing students firsthand insights into American campus life.

Mr. Dilip Oak explained that there are currently many job openings in the fields of engineering, architecture, and finance. It is a fact that, at present, job opportunities in computer science are very limited. But hopefully, the situation will change after January 2025. There will be more opportunities for the latest technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning, cybersecurity etc. He also provided crucial information on pre-travel preparations, including medical checks, insurance, immunization, and foreign exchange regulations.

Practical Advice and Encouragement

Sarika Oak shed light on campus life, accommodation, and job opportunities after graduation. She added that students should be proactive and make the most of every opportunity as that would make them well-rounded and work-ready. She emphasized the importance of building relationships beyond the Indian community to land internships and jobs. Her advice about on-campus employment and paid internships during Curriculum Practical Training (CPT) was a game-changer for those worried about repaying student loans.

Dr. David Alexander said there will be job opportunities starting in January 2025. However, jobs will be available to those students who excel academically and can crack 5-6 rounds of interviews. He also recommended that students stay informed of the changing trends and learn newer technologies.

Celebrating Our Achievers

A special highlight of the Pre-Departure Orientation 2024 was the felicitation of our students who achieved exceptional GRE scores and secured admits to prestigious universities. These accomplished students will join top-tier institutions such as Carnegie Mellon University, Columbia University, Georgia Institute of Technology, University of California, Berkley and Purdue University. Their fields of study are as diverse as their talents, ranging from Computer Science, Data Science, Cyber Security Management Information Systems and various engineering fields. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and confident that they will continue to excel in their chosen paths, contributing to the global community with their expertise and dedication.

Read this blog to know more about getting an internship during your MS program.

Real Stories, Real Impact

The program left a lasting impression on both students and parents.

Pradeep Kulkarni said this session resolved his doubts and concerns as a parent, thus reassuring him about the investment in his child’s education, thanks to the positive job prospects in America. He also praised the comprehensive guidance, which covered everything from settling into university life to finding housing and securing jobs.

Khushi Shah, an academy student, shared her seamless experience with the Academy’s support in university selection, Statement of Purpose drafting, and visa interview preparation. Her efforts, guided by Mr. Oak, led to her securing admission to all the universities she applied to.

Shivendra Bhonsle, our online GRE coaching and counseling student, expressed gratitude for the support and guidance he received that helped him achieve his dream. Moreover, the pre-departure event addressed all his doubts and eased his parent’s concerns about safety, job opportunities, and accommodations.

Akanksha Bharambe said that the Academy’s efforts were crucial in securing her admission to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. The application process was seamless for her, especially the mock visa interview conducted by Mr. Oak, which boosted her confidence.

Wrapping Up

The Pre-Departure Orientation 2024 was a great success, equipping students and parents with essential knowledge and boosting their confidence as they prepare for their academic journey in the US. With over 26 years of experience, Dilip Oak’s Academy continues to guide students through their higher education journey in America.

As India’s leading Study Abroad Consultant, Dilip Oak’s Academy offers a comprehensive suite of admission counseling services that can guide you through the entire process from Shortlisting Universities to Visa Counseling. With our expertise, we have successfully sent 32,000 students to various prestigious American universities like MIT, Stanford, Cornell, and Carnegie Mellon. We also offer classroom and online coaching for GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS, as well as GRE Self Prep. To explore our services, book a free consultation or call us at 91-20-67444222.

Fall 2019 Pre-Departure Orientation

Dilip Oak's Academy

For all students joining American and Canadian universities in Fall 2019 – Don’t miss Dilip Oak’s yearly Pre-Departure Orientation! Here’s your chance to clear all your doubts, gain insights on student-life in the US and meet other students joining the same university.

Pre-Departure-2019

23 June 2019

Siddhi Banquet Hall
DP Road, Near Mhatre Bridge, Erandwane, Pune 411004

This session open to all students joining US and Canadian universities for Fall 2019
Parents are strongly advised to attend

Pack well and get to know about student-life in the USA at our insightful orientation session. Conducted by Mr. Dilip Oak himself, this session will clear all your doubts regarding:

  • Pre-Departure: Forex Regulations, Medical Checks and Immunization, Insurance and Port of Entry Procedure
  • Life in the US: Campus Tips, Accommodation and Jobs after MS

Receive a free copy of “Get Set Go”, a guide on studying in the USA by Mr. Dilip Oak

Further, make joint travel plans and secure shared accommodation with other students joining the same university!

Event Chief Guests

  • Melody Stapleton (Dean) and Dr. Seema Sehrawat (Associate Dean)
    College of Computer Science and Construction Management
    California State University, Chico
  • Margaret Wolford (International Graduate Recruiter)
    School of Engineering and Applied Science
    State University of New York, Binghamton

Session Timings

As the capacity of the venue is only 1,400 pax, we have split the program into two groups based on alphabetical order. Find details of which session to attend below:

Group 1 (Timing: 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm)
Students joining universities with names ranging from A to R (e.g. Arizona State University, Rochester Institute of Technology, etc.) and those ranging from Sa to So (e.g. San Diego State University, Southern Methodist University).

Group 2 (Timing: 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm)
Students joining universities with names ranging from T to Z (e.g. Texas Tech University, University of XXXX) and those ranging from St to Sy (e.g. State University of New York – Buffalo, Syracuse University).

 Please note that California State University will fall under the letter ‘C’ and the University of California will fall under the letter ‘U’. Similarly, Florida State University will fall under the letter ‘F’ and the University of Florida will fall under the letter ‘U’.

–> Refer to the session-wise university list at the end of this page to confirm the slot relevant to you <–

Who Can Attend?
This seminar is open to all students (and their parents) joining American and Canadian universities in Fall ’19.

Entry-Passes for the Event
Students are expected to collect entry passes for themselves and their parents from the Academy. A maximum of two passes for parents will be issued.

Collect passes for event at the Academy between 9:00 am to 6:00 pm from

Monday, 20th May 2019
to
Saturday, 22nd June 2019

If you are unable to collect the entry pass before 22nd June, click HERE to fill up the required form and carry the same along with you on the day of the orientation at least 45 minutes before the program

 Prerequisites to Obtain the Entry Pass

  • Admission Centre and Visa Counseling Students
    Produce your Academy I-card (compulsory) and a photocopy of the I-20 form.

 

  • All Other Fall 2019 Students
    Produce a photocopy of the I-20 form, or
    stamped F1 visa, or
    the admission letter from the university (in case you have not received the I-20 form/visa).

See you there!

 Session-wise University List

3:30 pm Session 6:30 pm Session
Arizona State University State University of New York Institute of Technology, Utica
Boston University State University of New York, Albany
California State University, Chico State University of New York, Binghamton
California State University, East Bay State University of New York, Buffalo
California State University, Fullerton State University of New York, Stony Brook
California State University, Long Beach Stevens Institute of Technology
California State University, Los Angeles Syracuse University
California State University, Northridge Tennessee Technological University
California State University, Sacramento Texas A & M University, College Station
California State University, San Bernardino Texas A & M University, Kingsville
Campbell School of Pharmacy, North Carolina Texas State University
Carnegie Mellon University Texas Technological University
Clemson University University of Alabama, Huntsville
Cleveland State University University of Baltimore
College of Staten Island, New York University of Bridgeport
Colorado State University University of California, Davis
Columbia University University of California, Irvine
Cornell University University of California, Los Angeles
DePaul University University of California, San Diego
Florida International University University of California, Santa Cruz
Florida State University University of Central Florida
George Washington University University of Cincinnati
Georgia Institute of Technology University of Colorado, Boulder
Grand Valley State University University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
Hult Business School University of Connecticut
Illinois Institute of Technology University of Florida
Indiana University Purdue University, Indianapolis University of Georgia
Indiana University, Bloomington University of Houston, Clear Lake
Iowa State University University of Houston, Main Campus
Kent State University University of Illinois, Chicago
Lamar University University of Illinois, Springfield
Lawrence Technological University University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign
Lehigh University University of Louisiana, Lafayette
Long Island University University of Maryland, Baltimore County
Michigan State University University of Maryland, College Park
Michigan Technological University University of Massachusetts, Lowell
Middle Tennessee State University University of Massachusetts, Boston
Mississippi State University University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth
Missouri University of Science & Technology University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
New Jersey Institute of Technology University of Michigan, Dearborn
New York School of Interior Design University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
New York University University of Missouri, Kansas City
North Carolina State University University of Nebraska, Lincoln
Northeastern University University of Nebraska, Omaha
Northern Illinois University University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Northwestern University University of New Mexico
Ohio State University University of North Carolina, Charlotte
Oklahoma State University University of North Dakota
Old Dominion University University of North Texas, Denton
Pennsylvania State University University of Pennsylvania
Polytechnic Institute of New York University University of Pittsburgh
Portland State University University of Rochester
Purdue University University of South Florida
Rochester Institute of Technology University of Southern California
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey University of Texas, Arlington
San Diego State University University of Texas, Austin
San Francisco State University University of Texas, Dallas
San Jose State University University of Texas, San Antonio
Santa Clara University University of Utah
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville University of Washington, Seattle
Southern Methodist University University of Wisconsin, Madison
University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Wayne State University
West Virginia University
Western Illinois University
Western Michigan University
Wichita State University
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Wright State University

Fall 2015 Pre-departure Orientation

Dilip Oak's Academy

PreDep Orientation Fall 15 DarkMake Your Journey to Your American University Smooth and Hassle-Free

So, you cracked the GRE and TOEFL exams and secured your coveted admit. Perhaps you even cleared the dreaded visa interview. Congratulations! But are you really ready to go? Not quite. One thing remains to be done – you and your parents have to attend Dilip Oak’s Academy’s Pre-departure Orientation for Fall 2014. Here’s why.

What is the Pre-Departure Orientation (and What’s It For)?

If you are joining an American university in fall 2015 and want to make travelling there (and the process of settling in) an organized, tension-free process, then Dilip Oak’s Academy’s Pre-Departure Orientation is a must for you and your parents. There are several matters that you have to think through and preparations you and your parents have to make before you can begin your education in America. The orientation will explain them all. For example:

  • Accommodation – where are you going to stay when you land up in America? Is there someone who can help you get temporary accommodation until you find more permanent accommodation of your own? And what important points should you consider when looking for a good place to stay?
  • Insurance – should you take Indian or American medical and travel insurance policies? Which one is better and for what purpose?
  • Travel and Other Formalities – are you aware of the foreign exchange and airport formalities, the port of entry procedures? Did you know that you have to get a Social Security Number when you join your universities? Also, are medical check-ups or any immunizations required?
  • Documents – which ones must you carry with you? Which ones should you keep at home? And what’s the best place to keep your passport and traveler’s cheques?
  • Planning for Emergencies and Other Situation – suppose your baggage is lost or reaches you only after several days, how do you manage then? Or, if you got your luggage did you remember that you would need American coins to get a luggage trolley? And did you remember to arrange to be picked up”
  • Food, Groceries and Cooking – your mother is going to be worried about how you are going to survive when you get to America. So, should you take every single kitchen vessel that she gives you and, what about all the papad, pickle and masala she is planning to load you up with? Can you get it all there instead or, only some of it? What should you take with you then? And what about cooking lessons?

That’s just a sample of the things you have to think through but, by now you probably have got the picture.

So, in the Oak’s pre-departure orientation program, Mr. Oak will guide you through all the complexities of going to America, adapting to your new environment and settling in there. He will even cover such day-to-day matters as driving and commuting, seeing doctors and what medicines to take. He will even get into clothing and laundry. With his decades of experience in the field and as a public speaker, he will make it an extremely informative and interesting program which you and your parents must attend.

What are the Other Benefits of Attending?

1. Get a free book with all the information in it
At the orientation, you will be given ‘Get Set to Go’, a booklet written by Mr. Dilip Oak, which explains all these matters in detail – so, even after the orientation, you have a written guide to go back to any time you have a doubt.

  1. Meet other students going to your university
    At the end of the program we form groups of students joining the same university so that you can make joint travel plans and staying arrangements at the university.
  1. Get contact details of seniors at your university
    To get this information, when you come to get your pass, simply fill up a form with your contact details and we will email you the details around a week after the orientation. With this information in hand, you will be able to contact your seniors in advance and ask them for help to:
  • schedule airport pick-up
  • make temporary housing arrangements and
  • help you cope with the initial settling process

PreDep Orientation ScheduleWho can Attend?

This orientation is for students (and parents of students) who are joining American universities in the fall 2015 semester. Please note however: you will be able to attend only if you (or your child) has received confirmed admission to an American university for the fall 2015 semester. To get passes for the program therefore, show the I-20 form issued by your university (or your stamped F1 visa).

When and Where is the Orientation?

Date: Sunday, 14 June 2015
Time: 5:30 p.m.
Venue: Ganesh Kala Krida Auditorium, Near Swargate Bus Stand, Pune – 411051

Where Can I Get Passes?

You can contact our office for entry passes from 1st June.

PLEASE NOTE: SEATS ARE LIMITED
COLLECT YOUR ENTRY PASS FROM THE ACADEMY EARLY