You are encouraged to think, for a change. In the Indian education system I suffered through for three years (my high school years), I was pushed to learn everything "by heart" and not to think about why and how. You are essentially trained to be a mirror, just showing the world what your text book shows to you.

But not all is bad with the Indian education system. Math and pure science education is much better than in the U.S. or Europe (at least at the high school level). The labs and equipment, however, are a different story. At the college level, because of the emphasis on being a mirror, the quality of math and science training falls. That is why, despite having thousands of very hardworking and diligent students, India is not a powerhouse when it comes to research and development.

In light of these facts, it is quite surprising that the U.S. government is not promoting its universities as universal talent magnets. Look at how Australia markets itself as the place to be for international students. With tough rules on employment limitations, U.S. universities are actually losing talent to Europe, Australia, and Asia.

Fore more on Australia's efforts to attract foreign students, check out this website. Why can't the U.S. do the same?

Bhumika Ghimire