International student success story: From India to Georgetown University
Originally from a small town in south India, Ajay Gokul aspired to pursue his dream of studying international affairs in the United States. Although he received a full scholarship from Georgetown University to follow that path, he lacked the funds to cover his living expenses. Fortunately he found MPOWER Financing and was able to secure the necessary financing and continue his studies.
Read how Ajay found the resources he needed without burdening his family and what advice he shares with other international students wishing to study in the United States.
A solution to unexpected financial challenges when studying abroad
Ajay chose to study abroad in the U.S. to take his knowledge of international affairs to the next level. He had a unique international upbringing, having spent a significant part of his life in the Persian Gulf in Doha, in addition to India, and he knew that Washington, D.C., was the hub of international affairs and diplomacy. When he received the prestigious Donald F. McHenry Fellowship to study at Georgetown, he was thrilled.
But it became clear that he still would not have enough funds to cover his living expenses. Determined not to burden his parents, Ajay searched for resources, including private student loans, and he turned to MPOWER Financing for support.
“I didn’t want to pressure my parents because I have a younger brother,” Ajay says. “That is when I came to MPOWER.”
MPOWER Financing is a fintech company that empowers international students to attend universities in the U.S. and Canada through loans, scholarships and its Path2Success program, which includes free access to exclusive career, immigration and financial resources. Former international students founded the company to help students from around the world study abroad.
Ajay found MPOWER’s process straightforward and accessible: “They didn’t ask for any collateral,” he says. “They were happy as long as I was able to submit this documentation from my university and my intent to apply for a visa. It was all online. So, quite hassle-free, I would say.”
Adjusting to American culture
Culture shock is an inevitable part of studying abroad. For Ajay, moving to the U.S. presented new challenges and opportunities. Growing up with limited access to books and relying on newspapers for knowledge, Ajay developed a passion for world news and international affairs early on. This background fueled his determination to succeed in a new environment.
Ajay particularly values the diverse and dynamic culture in the U.S., which has broadened his perspectives and enriched his understanding of global affairs. He believes his experiences in the U.S. will build his confidence and ability to navigate the workforce abroad.
Advice for studying abroad
Ajay has a few tips for students exploring study abroad opportunities or currently in school abroad. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on academics to ensure you remain on track and advises living with students from different countries to fully immerse yourself in the English language.
“When they say that you’re determined to do something, the universe will conspire,” he says. “Just keep dreaming, and if you put your mind to it, I think nothing can stop you.”
Final thoughts: Financial support is available to study abroad
Despite the very real possibility that he’d have to turn down his scholarship, Ajay is now thriving at Georgetown University. His success demonstrates that support is available for international students at any stage of their journey.
Apply for an MPOWER Financing loan! It takes less than one minute to see if you’re eligible.
