My PhD Journey at Clemson University (International Student Perspective)
Hello, I am Antsa, a Ph.D. student at Clemson University. Personal website here. I have a passion for maths and teaching which led me to complete a Master of Science in Mathematical Science at AIMS South Africa. I am currently in my third year at Clemson. In this blog, I will share my experiences and insights on life at Clemson as an international student and what you need to consider before applying.
Table of contents
Starting the Journey: Applying for the Program & Visa Processes
Teaching Assistantship and English Speaking Test
What to Expect During the Program?
Is Ph.D. at Clemson Right for You?
Starting the Journey: Applying for the Program & Visa Processes
The Ph.D. program journey usually begins in the Fall semester (August), with a few students starting in the Spring (January). The first step is applying for the Ph.D. program and the Teaching Assistantship position. Upon receiving your admission letter and work contract, you accept the offer and then await the International Service to issue a certificate of eligibility.
The visa process is quite straightforward for students but has its restrictions. For a Malagasy student, it’s a one-time entry visa valid for 3 months and allows you to travel around the USA until the end of your program. However, each time you travel outside the US, you need to apply for a new visa. F1 students are not allowed to work outside of the university. Internships directly related to your field are permissible under the CTP and OTP. You can see the guidelines from the international service here. If this link does not work, just go to the website of IS and you should find information somewhere there.
Teaching Assistantship and English Speaking Test
As a Teaching Assistant, you’re expected to work 20 hours per week during the fall and spring, and 10 hours per week during the summer. The amount of work depends on your supervisor and could range from assisting in the class, grading, proctoring exams, doing labs to teaching.
To ensure proficiency in English, either you need an excellent grade in TOEFL/IELTS speaking test or you must pass (100%) the VEST test within your first year.
Read my VEST story here.
What to Expect During the Program?
The Ph.D. program at Clemson is quite rigorous. You are required to take two classes each in five different areas of math (breadth) and numerous classes in your area of interest (depth). Additionally, you need to pass two different prelim exams (with no more than 3 fails), pass oral exams (candidacy), and write your thesis.
I have a blog post about my prelim exams story, give it a read here.
I also have some tips that you can use for all your prelims! It’s here.
After completing your thesis, the next step is to look for a job, which is essential as you can only stay in the US for three months after graduating if you do not have a job. Once you have a job, you can then defend your thesis and graduate.
Is Ph.D. at Clemson Right for You?
Clemson is a great place to be if you are hard-working, okay with being away from your family for a long time, don’t plan to have a child during the Ph.D. program (unless your partner is a US citizen or permanent resident), and if you enjoy the outdoors, rural areas, and sports.
However, it may not be the best fit if you plan to frequently visit your home country, want to live with your spouse (who does not have an offer to work nearby), or want to live with your child and do not have a “sponsor”.
Funding and Citizenship
Funding options are mostly limited to Teaching Assistantships and Research Assistantships. Most fellowships are only for US citizens and few are for permanent residents.
You can not apply for citizenship as a student. Only permanent residents can apply for citizenship, and permanent residency can be obtained by sponsorship from an employer, family support or the diversity visa program. However, you can lose it under certain conditions such as getting fired, staying outside the US for more than 6 months, or if the family relationship ends (death or divorce).
Frequently Asked Questions
- Will I be able to send money home if I go to Clemson?
It depends on how much you want to send!
2. Will the stipends be enough for a living?
The stipend is enough for a decent living, not a luxurious one.
3. Are there a lot of conferences/seminars I can go to?
There are many, but you need to apply for funding, also funding works by reimbursement.
4. Can I buy a car and pay monthly?
You need to build your credit score first.
5. Can I change the topic of my thesis?
Yes, as long as your work is satisfactory, it is always okay to change topics, advisors, and areas.
6. Can they kick you out of the program?
Yes, I know this person who failed 3 prelims and couldn't continue.
7. Can I stay in the US after graduating?
Only if you find a job within 3 months, but Clemson has a career center that can help you in your job search. They can help polish your CV and letter if intent. They also offer workshops and mock interviews. There are also events like workshops or career fairs that help you connect with industry companies.
8. How long is the program?
On paper 5–6 years, but if your work is satisfactory and you do not have a job yet, you can stay doing research and TA duty for a maximum of eight years total.
9. Are people there supportive?
Many people are very supportive! If you are in a religious group of some kind, those will allow you to find many supportive people! I go to the University Lutheran Church. Have a look at their Instagram here.
In conclusion, pursuing a Ph.D. at Clemson University is a journey filled with hard work, learning, and growth. As an international student, it is essential to understand the processes and expectations to navigate this journey successfully. I hope my experiences and insights shared in this blog will be helpful to those considering this path.
Again, if you find my content helpful, send the link to your friends and leave me a clap (or two)!
