I Left India with a Dream in My Bag – Now I’m Living It in Scotland

A few years ago, if someone said I’d be living in Scotland, studying MSc Management, and getting ready for an internship in Bangkok, I wouldn’t have believed them. Not because I didn’t dream of it. I was in the middle of real-world responsibilities. And for me, dreams were something that I would get to someday…eventually.

But here I am, telling my story. Not only as a student abroad but also as someone who carried the aspirations of my family and turned them into a global journey.

It All Started with a Dream; My Mother’s Dream

The idea of studying abroad wasn’t mine to begin with, it was my mother’s. She always wanted to go overseas for education, but life didn’t offer her that chance. Watching her carry that dream in silence lit that fire in me. I had to chase it – not just for me, but for her.

My sister had already been in Scotland for five years, studying at Edinburgh Napier University. That was my first glimpse into what was possible. We live just 50 miles apart now, though we hardly get the time to meet. But her presence here gave me confidence, it made the unfamiliar seem achievable.

When I finally told my family that I was going to study abroad, they had mixed reactions. My father wanted me to stay in India and join LPU. Or maybe explore other options in Indian universities through friends and handle his business later on.

But it was clear to me what I wanted; I wanted international exposure. I had already studied hotel management during my graduation. I knew I needed a professional and global perspective for the next step.

That Dream Took a Leap from Indian Events to International Marketing

Before coming to Scotland, I worked in freelance event management across India. I helped organize big events – weddings, government programs, and even the Auto Expo in Delhi. I was always working behind the scenes.

I never included these projects on my resume. But the truth is, they shaped my approach to work and taught me more than any classroom could.

Now that I’m studying marketing, I can feel there is a connection between everything. The experience I gained organizing events translates well into marketing strategy, brand management, and customer experience.

My course has wrapped up, and I’m about to begin an internship in Bangkok this May. It’s online, but it’s a foot in the global door, and I’m ready for it.

How Leverage Edu Became the Backbone of My Journey

I stumbled upon Leverage Edu while doom-scrolling Instagram. Something about their approach felt personal.

Before I knew it, I had scheduled an appointment to talk to their counselors. I did not have a clue at that time that it was going to be one of the best decisions of my life.

Leverage Edu wasn’t just a platform, it was a partner. Their support was constant and consistent. From helping me choose the right university based on QS rankings, to guiding me through their Fly Homes and Fly Finance services.

I still remember my mentors Joicy and Priya, who helped me at every stage. I met them when I visited the Leverage Edu office to collect my SIM card, which I’m still using today!

What’s more, my mother who now lives in Birmingham, was also able to settle smoothly. And I credit a part of that to the ecosystem Leverage built for students and families alike.

Life Abroad – A Test of Patience and Self-Reliance

People often ask me if living abroad is difficult. To be honest, it depends. For me, coming from a hotel management background, it was not that difficult. I already knew how to manage chores, stay patient, and keep things running. Cooking, cleaning, and handling dishwashers…none of this was new to me.

But it’s not just about doing things; it’s about the attitude. You have to be polite, humble, and open to learning.

If someone is planning to move abroad, I always tell them, “Make sure you’re emotionally and practically ready. If you think it’s all about fancy campuses and photo ops, you’re in for a surprise.”

I didn’t do much research on the city I was moving to, and that’s one mistake I wouldn’t repeat. Every place has its challenges, and it’s better to be prepared. Whether it’s cultural differences or dealing with rejections, you have to stay grounded.

The Road to Opportunities and Optimism 

With my course nearly complete, I’m standing at a junction. One path leads to a job, the other to entrepreneurship. And honestly, I like having both options open.

My father is a businessman, and that spirit runs in the family. Who knows? I might start something of my own soon.

Studying abroad has changed the way I think. Not just about work, but about life. It’s made me resilient, adaptable, and more empathetic. I feel more capable now, and more importantly, I feel ready.

I’ve already agreed to join the Leverage Edu alumni network. If my experience can help even one student feel less lost or more confident, then that’s worth sharing.

I know how overwhelming the process can be, and if someone’s reading this and thinking, “Can I really do it?”, the answer is YES.

Do your research. Stay patient. And don’t be afraid to dream big. A boy from India, organizing weddings and conferences ended up studying marketing in Scotland and planning his next move to Bangkok. Imagine what you can do!

Disclaimer: This article is a special feature by Punit Dev as part of his journey with Leverage Edu. The views and experiences shared are his personal insights and reflections. Leverage Edu does not influence or edit the narrative, ensuring authenticity and originality in the student’s voice.