Living Abroad - January Term 2019
AIFS in Hyderabad Resident Director, Academic Year and Semester Programs
Dr. Sumana Kasturi
AIFS Hyderabad Office
Study in India Pgm Bldg, South Campus
University of Hyderabad
Gachibowli, Hyderabad 500 046, India
Phone: 91-40-23132808/2301290
Email: skasturi@aifs.co.uk
Namaste! - that's hello in Hindi; but I also speak English, Telugu and Urdu. I'm excited to introduce you to the incredible diversity you'll find here in Hyderabad.
I was born in Illinois, but moved to India when I was very young. As my father was a professor at the University of Hyderabad, I lived on the campus for 10 years, so I am extremely familiar with the place that will be your temporary home! I also lived in the U.S. for 12 years so have experience in both education systems. I have an MA in Media Studies and Education from Penn State University and a PhD in Communications from the University of Hyderabad. I fully understand the adjustment you will experience as you acclimate to this new culture - you can think of me as your chief go-to person, coordinator, mediator, guide and friend while you are staying here in India.
The Resident Director provides academic advice, introduces you to the community and handles communication with the University.
Housing and Meals
You will stay in the International Student Residence on campus. The residence is basic but comfortable; students have access to a shared dining room, computer room and common room as well as laundry facilities. Typically students share a double room although a limited number of single rooms are available for a supplemental fee. Please check with your AIFS Admissions officer if you would like a single room. The program fee includes 3 meals a day in the residence cafeteria which provides good quality Western and Indian food.
Cultural Activities
Learning does not begin or end in the classroom. To help you get a true taste of Indian culture, various activities will be organized such as:
- Guided city tour of Hyderabad
- Indian cooking lessons
- Indian dance lessons
- Walking tours
- Museum visits
Please note that students may be asked to pay a small additional fee for some of the activities above.
