Dev Mitra, an Indian entrepreneur based in Canada, recently shared his experiences as a student in a foreign country during a podcast with Vinamre Kasanaa. As the founder and managing partner of a business management consultancy in Canada, Mitra’s journey serves as both inspiring and relatable, shedding light on the often-overlooked struggles faced by international students trying to balance education, work, and personal sacrifices.
Leaving Comfort for Opportunity
In the podcast, Mitra revealed the difficult decision to leave his lucrative corporate job in India, where he earned Rs 14 lakh per annum, to pursue his studies in Canada. This move was far from easy. Mitra had to adapt to a new culture, an unfamiliar education system, and the challenge of living away from his family. To support himself, he took up a job as a waiter—a role that was a stark contrast to his previous corporate position.
His story resonates with many students who find themselves in similar circumstances. The transition from a comfortable life in India to the uncertainties of studying abroad can be daunting. Many students, like Mitra, are forced to take on low-paying jobs to cover their expenses, often sacrificing valuable time and energy. Mitra’s experience is a reminder that pursuing higher education abroad comes with significant personal and financial challenges.
The Reality of Student Life in Canada
Mitra also delved into the challenges that Indian students face in Canada, particularly the pressure of balancing work and studies. Many students work long hours in physically demanding blue-collar jobs, which can be mentally and emotionally exhausting. This dual responsibility often leads to feelings of loneliness and homesickness.
In addition to these pressures, Mitra touched upon issues of safety and racism that some Indian students encounter in Canada. While Canada is known for its multiculturalism, incidents of discrimination still occur, which can exacerbate the emotional toll on students already struggling to adjust to life in a foreign country. Mitra’s candid discussion serves as a reminder of the resilience required to face and overcome these challenges.
Community Support and Shared Experiences
The podcast episode has resonated with a wide audience, accumulating over 9,700 likes and more than 196,000 views on social media. Many listeners shared their own stories in the comments section, reflecting on their shared struggles as international students. One listener expressed how the episode reminded them that they are not alone in their challenges, a powerful sentiment for those feeling isolated in their experiences.
Another listener recounted their own journey, detailing the sacrifices they made to study abroad, including working in kitchens and performing menial tasks. These experiences not only humbled them but also deepened their respect for all types of work. Such stories emphasize the importance of empathy and mutual understanding among students who share similar struggles.
Mitra’s podcast not only highlights the difficulties Indian students face in Canada but also fosters a sense of solidarity. By sharing their experiences, students can find comfort in knowing that others have walked the same path and faced similar challenges. This collective understanding can serve as a source of motivation and encouragement, offering the support needed to navigate the complexities of life as an international student.
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