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30 Days, 30 Hacks: Mastering Your US Master's Journey

Day 28: FAQ's

Author

Manik Taneja
September 28, 2023

I have been pushing out newsletter since the past month trying to address questions that people usually have when they are applying for a university or are pursuing a Master’s course. I’ve realized lately that there are certain questions that people want answers to and would prefer to have it all compiled in one page, essentially we’ve moved towards the concept of quick communication, therefore I've curated a selection of essential FAQs that will help demystify the entire process and offer valuable insights into pursuing a Master's degree in the USA. I’ll be answering these questions in brief unless I’ve not covered them as part of the series.

Question 1:
When is the right time to apply for Masters in USA?

Answer:
AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE - https://charchaai.beehiiv.com/p/day-1

Question 2:
Can I get a part time position if I go to xyz university?

Answer:
Yes, there are multiple on campus opportunities for graduate students to say the least, you can be involved in academic and non-academic positions throughout your coursework.
https://charchaai.beehiiv.com/p/day-14
https://charchaai.beehiiv.com/p/day-15
https://charchaai.beehiiv.com/p/day-16

Question 3:
I’ve got 3-4 offers, which university do I choose? I want it to be worth it.

Answer:
No one can answer this question for you, at the end of the day you have to look into the pros and cons of an admit and then decide if you are going to have a worth it experience. You can’t expect to have the same journey as someone else, the best part about moving abroad is that your journey is going to be unique, you need to cherish it and immerse yourself in it.
If you still feel you need help refer to this newsletter:
https://charchaai.beehiiv.com/p/day-4
https://charchaai.beehiiv.com/p/day-3

Question 4:
How should I write my SOP? I feel clueless and most of the SOP’s online have research paragraphs in them, do I need to have papers published to apply to a program even if it is non-thesis?

Answer:
There are different programs offered with different requirements, read and research about the program before you commit yourself to applying to it. There are program specific SOP’s available online that I believe you should go through before you start writing a SOP. It requires at least 2 months of effort on a consistent basis to craft the right SOP for different programs. Ask your alumni if they could share their SOP or if online resources have examples, DO NOT ASK CONSULTANCIES FOR WRITING YOUR SOP IT IS YOUR STORY NOT THEIR’s.
Refer to this newsletter: https://charchaai.beehiiv.com/p/day-2

Question 5:
Is LOR supposed to be from the HoD? Do I ask my manager for a LOR? How many LOR’s do I need? Will I have to mail the LOR to the university?

Answer:
LOR’s are crucial to certify that you are the right fit for the program, therefore it is essential to spend quality time in choosing the right people to help you in this process.
Refer to this newsletter: https://charchaai.beehiiv.com/p/day-5

Question 6:
How are the job prospects for xyz university? Will I be able to land a job at MAANG?

Answer:
Universities have no impact on your job prospect, your resume does and so does your experience.
Refer to this newsletter: https://charchaai.beehiiv.com/p/day-8

Question 7:
How do I craft the perfect resume?

Answer:
Follow the template provided here: https://charchaai.beehiiv.com/p/day-7
Reach out to me for resume review at: https://topmate.io/manik_taneja3
(Special discounts for those subscribed to the newsletter)

Question 8:
Which program do I apply for? MSCS or MCS?

Answer:
If you are looking for a corporate job - MCS
If you have research background and are interested in research work - MSCS
Refer to this newsletter: https://charchaai.beehiiv.com/p/day-17

Question 9:
Does LinkedIn and Github matter? Can’t I just perfect my resume and land an interview?

Answer:
These platforms contribute holistically to your profile, don’t underestimate the reach.
Refer to the following:
https://charchaai.beehiiv.com/p/day-22
https://charchaai.beehiiv.com/p/day-23

Question 10:
How important is leetcode? Can I skip it? Will I still be able to crack interviews?

Answer":
Honestly, there is no escape to leetcode. You’ll end up facing at least one round of DSA that is going to be the decider.
Refer to this newsletter: https://charchaai.beehiiv.com/p/day-19

Question 11:
Are my projects good enough for a software developer internship?

Answer:
Tried and tested list: https://charchaai.beehiiv.com/p/day-20

Question 12:
Are my projects good enough for a data science internship?

Answer:
Tried and tested list: https://charchaai.beehiiv.com/p/day-21

Question 13:
What is CPT?

Answer:
Curricular Practical Training - For internships and co-ops
Refer to this newsletter: https://charchaai.beehiiv.com/p/day-11

Question 14:
What is OPT?

Answer:
Optional Practical Training - For full-time jobs
Refer to this newsletter: https://charchaai.beehiiv.com/p/day-12

Question 15:
Is there anything else that I should keep in mind?

Hope this newsletter helps answer most of the common questions.

Have more questions?

Reach out to me on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/maniktaneja3/

Want help with the application process? Want more tips and tricks? Want to get your SOP/Resume reviewed?

Reach out to me on Topmate - https://topmate.io/manik_taneja3