In the last episode, we covered Anusha Rao Deekulla’s academic milestones and career so far, university, course, motivation to study abroad and the other study abroad destination she shortlisted. In this episode, let’s understand her research approach, her experience with an education consultant and English Proficiency Tests.
Key highlights:
- Her Research Approach
- Her Experience With an Education Consultant
- English Proficiency Tests
Her Research Approach
Anusha stressed that self-introspection and thorough research are necessary to understand your expectations from the study abroad journey. So ask yourself questions such as what fascinates you, what your areas of interest are, and what you would like to be professionally. According to her, your plan need not be perfectly clear; a rough approximation is sufficient for you to move forward and then find direction through your research. Therefore, she conducted thorough research in a very thoughtful and systematic manner.
Anusha turned to her mentors, whom she had met during her internship and to the professors who had supported her during her academic journey. Their insights became invaluable whenever she needed clarity or direction. She has been grateful as she could ask her questions freely, even the simplest ones, without fear of judgment, believing that genuine learning begins with humility and curiosity. Anusha encourages students to go all out, meet their peers, mentors, or professors with rich experience, and ask questions without hesitation.
These conversations helped her finalise Australia, which offered the right balance of job opportunities, and quality education. It is crucial to check whether the universities offer the course of your choice and to review their rankings. Her university offers her opportunities to network with peers and good support groups, creating an overall perfect ecosystem for shaping her future. Australia turned out to be that place where an exciting academic environment, cultural inclusivity, and assured professional growth awaited her at every turn.
Her Experience With an Education Consultant
Anusha relied on one person she could really trust, i.e., her education consultant, who was fortunately also her friend. When she approached him for guidance, it turned into a meaningful collaboration. To her, he was never only her consultant but rather the voice that kept her steady whenever she felt overwhelmed or wanted to give up.
At times, she just wanted to step away from the whole process, believing it was a daunting task. But her consultant, like a true friend, did not let her give up. He would remind her of how much work she had put into it already and encourage her to pursue her academic goals, always offering the right advice.
From shortlisting colleges to helping her evaluate course options, he took care of every detail, which often involved countless rounds of research and discussion. She called him every single day, sometimes with serious questions and sometimes with small doubts. Yet, he answered every time patiently and clearly.
She now looks back and feels truly grateful. What could have been a very stressful and confusing experience has been seamless because of her friend’s guidance. The support didn’t just help her through the process but also shaped a definitive path for her. Many students approach education consultants to gain clarity and expert advice.
English Proficiency Tests
For English-taught programmes, students have to appear for English proficiency exams such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), the Pearson Test of English (PTE) or the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). You can choose the test that aligns with your university and course requirements. According to Anusha, each exam has its own structure and purpose.
She realised that selecting the right exam is necessary based on academic goals and convenience. For instance, IELTS offered both paper-based and computer-based tests, and each provided a somewhat different experience. According to her, the PTE exam was less stressful in terms of format and assessment.
Furthermore, her consultant friend guided her through this decision and suggested that since PTE is widely accepted in Australia, she should go ahead with it. If you are applying to universities in different countries, you can choose IELTS, as it is accepted worldwide.
According to Anusha, cracking these exams isn’t difficult, provided you know the format and are prepared thoroughly. Conversational English will not be sufficient as you need to be proficient in various aspects, such as grammar and vocabulary.
So, this is all about Anusha’s research approach, her experience with an education consultant and English Proficiency Tests. In the next episode, we will cover the cultural experience in Australia and the difference between education in India and Australia. Meanwhile, if you have any queries, please feel free to connect with us.
Also Read: How to Plan and Prepare for Studying Abroad: Step-by-Step Guide
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