The book “Dreaming Overseas” by Siddharth Choudhary is a thought-provoking novel that captures the essence of the international student experience.

The book serves as a powerful resource for students, educators, and parents, offering an honest account of the sacrifices and perseverance required to turn a dream into reality.

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Choudhary, a motivational speaker and content creator, delved into his inspiration and the challenges he faced.

“I have lived the struggles—the homesickness, the culture shock, the endless applications for part-time jobs, and the uncertainty of whether I would be able to build a life in a new country. It is a story that needs to be told, not just for me but for the countless students who dream of flying overseas with big ambitions but little idea of the reality that awaits them. I wanted to write something authentic, relatable, and ultimately empowering,” he said.

Asked about the challenges of studying abroad, the author said, “Isolation is one of the biggest challenges. When you are away from family and everything familiar, it is easy to feel lost. Adjusting to a foreign curriculum can be equally tough—you are suddenly expected to think and learn in ways that are very different from what you are used to.

“And then there is the job market—trying to find work, facing rejection after rejection, and feeling like you are not good enough. It’s a humbling experience, but it’s also one that teaches you resilience and resourcefulness,” he added.

Choudhary said his book is a guide for students who aspire to study abroad, offering them practical insights and preparing them for the journey ahead.

“Too often, people romanticize the idea of studying overseas. This book aims to break that illusion and show the grit, determination, and sacrifices it takes to succeed,” he said.

Is it based on a true story?

“The story itself is fictional, but every incident and challenge described in the book is rooted in reality. These are things I’ve experienced or witnessed firsthand. The characters may be fictional, but their struggles and triumphs are drawn from real life. I wanted to create a story that would resonate deeply with anyone who has ever dared to chase their dreams far from home,” the author added.

Choudhary has worked in the Northern Territory Secretariat, Department of the Chief Minister, Northern Territory Government in Australia. His diverse background — spanning retail, real estate, radio Jockeying, and government — gives him a unique perspective on the challenges faced by international students and the resilience needed to overcome them.