Admission Journey: How Priyanka got into GISMA Business School, Germany during COVID-19

Studyabroad.shiksha.com got in touch with one of the students – Priyanka and learned how she was awaiting visa stamping since February 2020 but due to COVID, her visa came in August 2020. Finally, she is going to live her dream and pursue Project Management at GISMA Business School, Germany.

Q. Why did you choose to study abroad? Did Covid-19 affect your decision at any point?

Priyanka: I always wanted to study abroad because it greatly contributes to your overall personal development. It helps you to get a taste of the world by experiencing a different culture. It is neurotically stimulating when you get to learn a new language that broadens your horizon of the world in general. Of course, not to forget the challenges you are going to face while living independently that will help build your confidence as an individual. All of these qualities are expected in today’s modern work environment. 

Q. Was this particular country your only choice as a study destination or did you considered other countries as well?

Priyanka: I was sure of pursuing my master’s program (MSc. Project Management) since my college days. Then I researched the countries where my course was a popular choice that’s when I came across Germany. I was thrilled to know the opportunities it provided regarding my field, and that is when I sealed my decision of studying there.   

Q. Once you were sure of going abroad to study, how did you research the application process? Was it a difficult stage?

Priyanka: When I was sure of the country I was looking forward to continuing my master’s with, I listed down the universities that fitted the lucrative future I imagined for myself. After I finalized the University, I directly applied to their website where the application process was also described step-by-step.

Q. Which exams were you required to take?

Priyanka: To get into the University for my course that is English instructed they expected us to have appeared for either IELTS or TOEFL exam. Apart from this, learning basic level German language would help one to blend in and survive the day-to-day tasks.

Q. How was your Visa interview? What questions did the Visa officer ask you?

Priyanka: My visa interview with VFS Global, Mumbai was a hassle-free experience the staff was helpful, friendly, and most importantly very patient which eased my restlessness. After submitting the required documents they asked me, few questions like ‘Why did I choose to study in my University’, ‘What were my short-term and long-term goals’, and, ‘How studying in Germany would help me find better opportunities in my country’. 

Q. What challenges did you face due to Covid-19 Lockdowns? Was it difficult to arrange finances?

Priyanka: I was supposed to go in March 2020, but due to lockdown, it postponed to September 2020. I secured admission at the university before the lockdown happened. Also, I paid my full tuition fees in advance due to which I didn’t have to worry about any due payment.

Read more: How to arrange for finances during lockdown?

Q. Was your family concerned about sending you abroad during these uncertain times? How did you convince them?

Priyanka: My parents and I were equally delighted with the golden moment I was waiting for. However, it is hard for us to ignore the reality for which I am preparing as per the set of instructions on safety measures by the concerned authorities.

Q. How did you come across Shiksha Study Abroad Counseling services? What is your honest opinion about the help provided to you by the team?

Priyanka: While surfing online, I came across an online portal ‘Shiksha Study Abroad’ for overseas education. I remember it was pretty quick, I went to their site signed up by filling some questionnaires and done. Once registered I immediately got a call from their team and without wasting any time they moved forward with my case and assisted me throughout until I got my Study Visa. It was when Miss Deepika Bisht pitched-in and guided me with each and every document and paper-work which we as students have little knowledge of. The team stood with me until the end. Overall, I had an excellent experience with Shiksha and would recommend and spread the word with my friends/siblings seeking education abroad.

Q. What additional support did you receive from the university or Shiksha counselors during this unforeseen situation?

Priyanka: Because of the pandemic I lost contact with my program consultant in Germany during the lockdown. However, the Shiksha team was in touch with me the whole time, listened to all my queries patiently, and solved all my doubts on time.

Q. You have made it to your chosen study abroad destination. What advice would you offer to study abroad aspirants, especially amid the Covid-19 scenario?

Priyanka: I would say you are just one step away to change your life completely so do not step back and wait for it. You could either keep wondering about the worse situations that are yet to happen or get through with all the possibilities and take necessary steps and go for it.

Studyabroad.shiksha.com wishes Priyanka a prosperous career.