Choosing between pursuing a dream abroad and building a stable career back home is tougher than it sounds. One Indian NRI recently opened up on Reddit about his dilemma: should he stay in the US for a fully funded PhD at UT Austin, or return to India for a high-paying software engineering job in Bengaluru? With family responsibilities, career growth, and financial stability all on the line, the decision isn’t simple.
The Redditor, who has a Master’s from an old IIT and two years of work experience, had planned to settle in the US long-term. The PhD offered him monthly savings of $1,000–$1,300 (Rs 88,000 to Rs 1.14 lakh) and the chance to advance in chemical engineering. But the current political climate and being away from ageing parents have made him question the move.
Back in India, he could resume his previous SDE role, earning around Rs 17 LPA fixed pay. With 5+2 years of cumulative experience, he’d be in a strong position professionally, but giving up the US dream could feel like missing out on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. He worries that staying in the US for five years might leave him starting fresh in India later, where PhDs aren’t always well-compensated, while staying in India guarantees financial and career stability. Not married and the only child, his family considerations also weigh heavily on his mind.
The post has sparked a discussion among NRIs and professionals who’ve faced similar crossroads, weighing ambition against family, security, and long-term goals.
Internet reacts
The internet is divided on the topic. Some users argue that the current political situation shouldn’t affect his decision, pointing out that he already has a visa, is settled academically, and is saving money. They suggest completing the PhD, gaining experience in the US, and returning to India later if desired, noting that political concerns alone aren’t a strong reason to give up such an opportunity.
Others recommend staying in the US, highlighting that a PhD from UT Austin is a rare chance not to be skipped for Indian IT jobs. They mention that returning as a professor could be an option to avoid the corporate rat race, though opinions vary based on personal family circumstances.
Some users, however, caution against the professor route, arguing that it can become repetitive and mundane. Teaching the same material year after year can feel unfulfilling, and even at top institutes, students may be uninterested or more knowledgeable in certain areas. They suggest high-achieving individuals might find the role limiting compared to dynamic corporate opportunities.
The Redditor, who has a Master’s from an old IIT and two years of work experience, had planned to settle in the US long-term. The PhD offered him monthly savings of $1,000–$1,300 (Rs 88,000 to Rs 1.14 lakh) and the chance to advance in chemical engineering. But the current political climate and being away from ageing parents have made him question the move.
Back in India, he could resume his previous SDE role, earning around Rs 17 LPA fixed pay. With 5+2 years of cumulative experience, he’d be in a strong position professionally, but giving up the US dream could feel like missing out on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. He worries that staying in the US for five years might leave him starting fresh in India later, where PhDs aren’t always well-compensated, while staying in India guarantees financial and career stability. Not married and the only child, his family considerations also weigh heavily on his mind.
The post has sparked a discussion among NRIs and professionals who’ve faced similar crossroads, weighing ambition against family, security, and long-term goals.
Internet reacts
The internet is divided on the topic. Some users argue that the current political situation shouldn’t affect his decision, pointing out that he already has a visa, is settled academically, and is saving money. They suggest completing the PhD, gaining experience in the US, and returning to India later if desired, noting that political concerns alone aren’t a strong reason to give up such an opportunity.
Others recommend staying in the US, highlighting that a PhD from UT Austin is a rare chance not to be skipped for Indian IT jobs. They mention that returning as a professor could be an option to avoid the corporate rat race, though opinions vary based on personal family circumstances.
Some users, however, caution against the professor route, arguing that it can become repetitive and mundane. Teaching the same material year after year can feel unfulfilling, and even at top institutes, students may be uninterested or more knowledgeable in certain areas. They suggest high-achieving individuals might find the role limiting compared to dynamic corporate opportunities.
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