IITian studying at Yale University shares how life upgraded after moving to US: 'Doors open remarkably fast'

IIT Delhi graduate praises life in US. (AI-generated image)

Indians staying abroad, be it for study, work or long-term settlement, often share hardships and adjustment struggles. Social media posts frequently highlight high living costs, harsh weather, lack of domestic help and distance from family. While such accounts reflect genuine challenges, they do not tell the full story for everyone.

Amid these conversations, an IIT Delhi graduate pursuing an MBA at Yale University has shared a different perspective on his move to the United States, focusing instead on what he describes as clear improvements in his daily life.

Aman Rai, an IIT Delhi alumnus, moved to the US six months ago to begin his MBA at Yale University. In a LinkedIn post, he said he began noticing a pattern in the content shown to him online.

“Since then, the social media algorithm has been pushing a specific type of content- Indians in the US complaining about the hard life' and sharing expectation vs reality reels about no house help, bad weather, no quick comm, etc,” he wrote.

Instead of repeating those concerns, Rai said he wanted to present the ‘other side’ of the life abroad. He first spoke about infrastructure and road safety. Comparing his experience with Indian cities, he said daily movement feels more organised and predictable.

“There are sidewalks without random manholes. I couldn't imagine running in the second half of the day without the fear of being hit by a vehicle in Bangalore. People generally respect traffic rules. My wife didn't drive for 5 years in India because of the chaos, and here she started driving in the 2nd month,” he said.

Rai also highlighted the difference in air quality, especially compared to Delhi. “Coming from Delhi, breathing here feels like breathing an elixir,” he wrote.

On the subject of weather, he addressed warnings he had received about harsh winters and low mood during colder months. He explained, “I came here in the fall. People warned me about ‘winter gloom.’ I feel the opposite. I purchased 1 decent jacket (for $40), and that was sufficient. After it snows, it feels like a wonderland.”

Lifestyle adjustments were another area he discussed. Rai said he does not miss India’s quick commerce platforms and food delivery services. He further said, “I don't miss Blinkit or Zomato at all. I used to order unhealthy stuff anyway. Grocery ordering is usually fine once a week on apps like Instacart. There is no dearth of food options. I don't miss the cook. Hitting 150g of protein with clean, high-quality food is easily achievable.”

Although he described his current location as a “small" city, he noted that natural spaces such as a lake, hill and beach are within driving distance, offering easy access to outdoor activities.

Rai also reflected on professional growth and daily peace of mind. “If you’re willing to do the work, doors open remarkably fast. I’m already working with a $1B VC fund in a small capacity. There is a level of mental peace that comes with the lack of constant honking and ambient noise. Generally, if you do not have a victim mentality, you'll appreciate what this place has to offer,” he explained.

His post received a wide range of responses online. Many users supported his balanced outlook and said experiences can differ depending on expectations and priorities.

One wrote, “This is a refreshing take. Every place has trade-offs, but mindset decides what you amplify. The quiet dignity of systems working, clean air, predictable rules, and access to opportunity compound in ways people underestimate. Glad you shared the other side — it deserves more airtime.”

Another added, “I did my Master's in the US, and I think it's amazing. But for most people, I also think it's more about what you want out of life and where you want to spend it vs just a better career or lifestyle.”

One more added, “Love this perspective, Aman! Most people switch countries and keep complaining about how their lives were better before.”