International Spotlight: Shriya Mangla, Graduate Student at Industrial Engineering (IEOR)

Which program/department are you in?

Industrial Engineering (IEOR).

What is your primary area of study or research?

Industrial Engineering and Systems Engineering.

Which country (or countries) do you come from?

India.

How long have you been in the U.S.?

I started school earlier this January, and have completed almost a year here.

Tell us about your experience in NYC thus far.

It has been an exhilarating and overwhelming experience so far. I came with zero expectations because moving to a whole different country in the middle of a pandemic was a tough decision. The only thing that kept me strong throughout was the thought and excitement of moving to THE New York City. New York is a rich tapestry of diverse cultures and experiences, and it has come to feel like home. I know that no matter what, I belong here and I contribute something to its diversity every day. Yes, it has its challenges and it comes with a learning curve, but looking back at all my experiences I’ve had this past year, I am happy to say that every second of it has been worth it.

What do you like best about living in the U.S.?

Starting anew in the U.S. makes me experience independence at a level I had never thought about before. Independence back home comes with strings attached, because I know I’ll always have a safety net. But, with that safety net gone, I’ve had the chance to grow out of my comfort zone and thrive in this independence. From taking decisions about my next meal, to mapping out my career here at Columbia, I’ve learnt and grown incredibly.

Also, the people here have been nothing short of incredible. I am grateful for every friend I made here and every person who has been kind enough to help me. This experience wouldn’t have been the same without the people I have around me.

What are some challenges about living here?

I quickly realized that it can be challenging to navigate the collegiate culture of the American private, Ivy League education system, as it starkly differs from the Indian education model that I had grown accustomed to. Moreover, the Manhattan housing market is a beast of its own - it is as competitive as it is expensive. It was a nightmare to find the right house in the right neighbourhood within the proximity of a subway station and the school itself.

Another challenge I had not expected was the imposter syndrome that comes with studying at one of the best colleges in the country. Surrounded by the créme de la créme of students, I found myself lost in this competitive race. But, as I have come to understand, it is important to change your perspective. Even though I still feel like I am falling behind from time to time, I look at it as an opportunity to grow and better myself.

What do you know now that you wish you knew before coming here?

In my experience, using the available resources and asking questions – even the ones I felt sheepish asking – were crucial to getting into a rhythm in a new place. Furthermore, what made all the difference in easing my homesickness was to foster new relationships, explore my surroundings, and get involved – both on-campus and in the greater NYC area. There is a world of opportunities available here, and all I have to do is be on the lookout and keep trying.

What is it like being a graduate student? 

Being a graduate student comes with a lot of perks beyond a stellar, challenging education. First of all, we are studying in the heart of this pulsating, ever-changing city that always has an endless list of events for us to explore. Secondly, and equally as vital, most US higher education institutions do an exceptional job of connecting students with the community through its alumni network and internships; as well as integrating students into the culture with the help of student discounts on shows, free admission to museums, classes, and a host of other university-sponsored activities that I am glad to have partaken in.

Do you have any advice for future students or scholars?

My advice is to look out for Instagram updates, attend every mixer possible, sign up for student events, join student organizations, connect with your professors and departmental peers and take advantage of every opportunity that arises. Network as much as humanly possible because the key to making it big in the U.S. is just that - networking.

Also, take this chance to explore your identity and interests. Get out into the city to find your new favorite coffee shop, running route, or bookstore, and without even realizing this city will start to feel like home. Any new city can feel overwhelming, but I can say from experience that taking the time to plant roots in an unfamiliar environment can be one of the most exciting, challenging, and defining experiences.

Are you (or do you know) an international student, scholar, or alumni?

We’re looking to spotlight stories of academic or professional work, leadership, or personal adjustment to life at Columbia and NY in particular and the U.S. in general.

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