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Home > Buzz > Campus to Tech Leaders How International Students Are Shaping the US Economic Future

Campus to Tech Leaders: How International Students Are Shaping the U.S. Economic Future

Updated on: 30 April,2025 05:11 PM IST  |  Mumbai
Buzz | sumit.zarchobe@mid-day.com

Abhinav Nellaiah Iyer is a notable example of how international education can shape a successful career in the United States.

Campus to Tech Leaders: How International Students Are Shaping the U.S. Economic Future

Abhinav Iyer

Moving to a new country in search of education and professional opportunities is a challenging experience, but also full of possibilities. For many international students, this journey represents a crucial turning point in both their careers and lives. Speaking of this subject, it is worth highlighting that the United States continues to be the preferred destination for international students seeking academic qualifications and a solid career. 

Data and statistics prove this. According to the Open Doors Report, published by the U.S. Department of State, the number of international students in the country reached over 900,000 in 2021. These students come from various countries, with a particular emphasis on China, India, and South Korea. Furthermore, another study, this one by the National Foundation for American Policy, indicates that approximately 30% of tech startup founders in the U.S. are immigrants, many of whom arrived as international students. 

This movement is a significant driving force behind innovation and economic growth in the country. The truth is that immigrants not only contribute talent and new ideas but also create jobs and promote advances in key sectors such as technology, healthcare, engineering, and digital advertising. 

Abhinav Nellaiah Iyer is a notable example of how international education can shape a successful career in the United States. Graduating with a degree in Computer Science and Engineering from Kalasalingam University in India, Abhinav stood out during his undergraduate studies, receiving the gold medal as the top student in his class. His journey in the U.S. began with an MBA at Michigan State University, where he not only excelled academically but also engaged with the university community, mentoring other students and developing leadership skills. 

Today, with over nine years of experience in the tech industry, Abhinav holds the position of Senior Technical Solutions Consultant at Google, where he leads critical development and scalability programs, impacting revenue and operational efficiency for large publishing partners. His career includes leadership experiences, such as the development of monetization solutions, process optimization, and mentoring new talent. 

In an interview, Abhinav shared his perspective on the importance of international education and continuous professional development: “Education in the United States gave me a solid foundation to understand not just technology, but also how it can be applied to solve real business problems. Along my journey, I’ve learned the importance of mentoring others, sharing my knowledge and experience. Every step in my career has been an opportunity to grow, while also giving back to society,” he said. 

Tips and Best Practices for International Students 

For those aspiring to follow a path similar to Abhinav’s, certain practices can be crucial in achieving success. In a conversation with the subject expert, he shared some recommendations for international students seeking to build a successful career in the United States.

“A strong academic background, combined with continuous learning, is essential to stand out in competitive markets. Striving for academic excellence from the start, as I did during my MBA, is the foundation for opening doors in global companies. Additionally, building a network of contacts and seeking out experienced mentors are important steps for professional development. Mentorship not only aids personal growth but can also open doors to new opportunities,” says Abhinav. 

According to the expert, participating in practical projects, such as internships and volunteering, helps gain valuable experience and apply academic knowledge in real-world situations. Keeping an open mind to learn about the corporate culture in the U.S. and the working dynamics there can also accelerate the adaptation process. "Understanding expectations and the work environment in the U.S. is crucial for successfully integrating," he added. 

The truth is that Abhinav has played a key role in strengthening the U.S. economy, particularly in the tech sector. He has helped create solutions that generated significant revenue increases and improved customer experience. His work with major publishing partners has also driven the digital advertising sector, one of the pillars of the global digital economy. 

Moreover, Abhinav is an example of how an immigrant can contribute to innovation in the U.S. His ability to lead global, cross-functional teams, as well as manage complex projects, has been essential in developing solutions that serve clients across multiple countries. He has worked with Google teams to launch new tools and processes that enhance the efficiency and scalability of their partners' operations. 

“In the coming years, my goal is to continue leading innovations that help increase efficiency and revenue for our partners at Google. I also want to collaborate with educational initiatives, contributing to the development of future tech leaders, just as I was inspired by those who helped me along the way,” says Abhinav. 

A Transformative Power 

In conclusion, the journey of international students moving to the United States in search of educational and professional opportunities is a reflection of the transformative power of global mobility. More and more, these individuals not only build successful careers but also contribute significantly to the growth and innovation in the economic sectors of the countries that host them. 

Abhinav Nellaiah Iyer’s journey is a clear example of how international education and building a solid career can lead to lasting contributions to the U.S. economy and society. His commitment to excellence, innovation, and mentorship will continue to be a valuable asset for the future of the tech sector and society as a whole. 

Finally, the exchange of knowledge, the diversity of experiences, and the cultural exchange between different parts of the world strengthen the global economy and make the United States a dynamic hub of technological, scientific, and business innovation. The ability to integrate international talent and provide them with the tools to thrive in the global market is undoubtedly one of a country’s greatest assets, and continuing to support and foster this trajectory is essential for a prosperous and inclusive future.

Author: Ryan Moody

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