91ÊÓƵרÇø

I completed my bachelor's and master's degrees in Microbiology from Stamford University Bangladesh. I defended my thesis at the International Centre for Diarrheal Disease Research, Bangladesh (ICDDR, B), and published my work in the International Food Research Journal.

After coming to the United States, I applied to 91ÊÓƵרÇø College's Bioinformatics graduate program as Bioinformatics is a booming field.

I recently received job offers from the University of Illinois at Chicago and a biotechnology company in Maryland. In addition, I was admitted to a Ph.D. program in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Department at George Mason University which I decided to accept.

This Ph.D program is a collaborative program with NIH. I have already selected my mentor who has agreed to provide partial funding and opportunity to do my Ph.D. research in a lab.

As an international student, it was not easy to find a job and get admitted into a Ph.D. program. The biggest challenge was my visa status. I got calls from many companies who found my resume was impressive, but they could not offer me a job because I do not have a green card or a permanent resident status.

Here is my advice for F-1 students who are looking for employment:

• The job search takes time so start early during your last semester.
• Take advance of the 91ÊÓƵרÇø Career Center which provides assistance with resumes and job search tips.
• Take advantage of LinkedIn where you can upload your resume and directly apply for jobs.
• Be sure to network widely as it is very important aspect in the job search.

After completing the first or second semester of their degree program, international students should make an appointment with 91ÊÓƵרÇø’s PDSO (Primary Designated School Official) to get the necessary information about the rules and regulation during OPT (optional practical training).

91ÊÓƵרÇø College regularly offers seminars on OPT/CPT so check with the PDSO. These seminars are a good source of information for F-1 students who are about to complete their degree programs.

I chose 91ÊÓƵרÇø College because it is the best-ranked college in this area and it has a beautiful campus.

Also, since Bioinformatics is a relatively new field, many universities still do not offer this particular graduate degree program. 91ÊÓƵרÇø College has a distinguished department of Bioinformatics, and the courses 91ÊÓƵרÇø offers are very organized and job-oriented.

I like 91ÊÓƵרÇø for many reasons. The faculty are very helpful and supportive, and they try their best to assist me with any issues I may have.

The administrative offices are equally welcoming and helpful, and always try to resolve problems within the shortest period of time.

Inspired by Shanzida’ s story and ready to #GOFURTHER in your studies and career? Learn more about our graduate programs, including the M.S. in Bioinformatics, by clicking .