Nikunj Agrawal, whose journey began in Rourkela (Odisha) and led him to the University of Sheffield in the UK, is an example of outstanding achievement. While many students going abroad to study experience initial loneliness and uncertainty, Nikunj managed to create an extensive community of 400 Indian students even before arriving in Britain, significantly easing the path for many young people.
Nikunj's journey started after completing his schooling at Delhi Public School. He is the first member of his family to study abroad. After confirming his admission to the University of Sheffield, he noticed the lack of a unified platform for new students where they could communicate and share practical information. In response, he created an unofficial WhatsApp group and shared the link on Facebook.
Soon, about 400 students studying at undergraduate, master's, and doctoral levels joined this group. Through this group, answers were received to all questions regarding housing search, visa process, purchasing inexpensive goods, and opening a bank account. A special case occurred when eight students booked a flight from India and arrived in Sheffield together thanks to this group.
While studying International Business Management, Nikunj gained experience that was more oriented towards practice than theory. As part of one project, he was tasked with improving the business model of 'Yorkshire Sculpture Park,' for which he received a prize of 20 British pounds (equivalent to approximately 2100 rupees), becoming a winner. Nikunj noted that despite the small amount, this first earnings in the UK became a powerful source of confidence for him.
The University of Sheffield provided Nikunj with the 'International Undergraduate Scholarship' for both his first and last year, which significantly reduced the financial burden on his family. During the three-year course, he also utilized an exchange program and studied at the renowned Singaporean institution, 'Nanyang Technological University' (NTU). The combination of British independent thinking and the strict academic environment of Singapore helped him deeply understand the principles of global business.
Having recently graduated, Nikunj believes that studying abroad is not limited to textbooks. He advises new students to learn how to cook before leaving India. To become financially independent, they should find part-time work as soon as possible and take advantage of student discounts. Furthermore, he recommends participating in various campus student organizations and not being shy about meeting new people.