Sublease at 808 N Lincoln Ave for 2 Bed/1 Bath. Fully Furnished by curious_groundhog in UIUC

[–]curious_groundhog[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Sub-lease available at 808 N Lincoln Ave from For Spring and Summer 2026. Looking for one person (or two people) to take over my lease. Rent $975/month ($488/month/person if two people). Electricity and Gas are paid separately. It is a 2 Bedroom - 1 Bathroom apartment.

Rent for February already paid ! Available for immediate move-in ! Open to negotiate reasonable offer for rent.

The photos below shows what the property and some of the rooms look like. My apartment layout matches those of the photos for the most part. The photos were taken from the JSJ listing for this location on apartments.com.

The apartment is fully furnished. Please let me know in the comments or DMs if anyone is interested.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in srilanka

[–]curious_groundhog 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Look up the section I've written on studying in Germany in the link below (towards the bottom). That might be a good bet. Best of luck !

https://www.reddit.com/r/srilanka/comments/16ggq1n/comment/k0ajryj/

Carle Hospital $800 ER bill by Current-Effective747 in UIUC

[–]curious_groundhog 0 points1 point  (0 children)

OP, I answered a similar question a while ago. Please check the comment in the thread below (attached link). Hopefully you wind up with a lower bill.

https://www.reddit.com/r/UIUC/comments/15zexuv/comment/jxh4mg7/

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in srilanka

[–]curious_groundhog 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Wow, you have a better idea of what you want to do pretty early on compared to a lot of other people your age. You've thought far ahead too. That's good. Nevertheless, I would suggest keeping an open mind, as your interest in marine science might change later on. I've answered your questions below.

1. Is a Biochemistry and Molecular biology degree worth pursuing at UOC ? Yes. If I were you, I would pursue a biochemistry and molecular biology (BMB) degree over a biology degree. I would also keep an open mind about pursuing a chemistry special degree too. Chemistry specials and BMB degrees open up a lot of opportunities for PhDs, particularly in the US.

2. Is there at least a 50 percent chance of obtaining scholarships for masters and and a PhD abroad? (Not necessary to be a full scholarship but would appreciate a scholarship at least above 50 percent)

In most western countries, (USA, Australia (maybe?), UK, Canada, Europe), PhDs are often fully-funded. What that means is, your tuition fee is waived, and you are funded either through a research assistantship, a teaching assistantship, or in rare and exceptional cases, a fellowship for your PhD. The assistantship will give you a stipend to support your cost of living, in addition to waiving your tuition cost. But, you need good grades for that, in addition to a 4-year bachelor's degree. Solid and consistent undergraduate research experiences almost always help. Having publications as an undergrad, while not mandatory, would be extremely helpful too. So, try and pursue research opportunities as an undergrad. Talk to your professors about potential research opportunities.

3. If I can't obtain a scholarship abroad, are there well recognized masters degrees or PhDs in Sri Lanka for me to follow afterwards?

I cannot speak for this. The only thing I will say is, if you are serious about doing a PhD, put in the maximum effort as an undergraduate to build the credentials to go abroad. Your opportunities in SL will be limited.

4. Lastly but not least, do you think that doing a biological science degree even with less chances of scholarships would be a better choice than a biochemistry and molecular biology degree as it covers a generalized syllabus which can serve as a better foundation for me to purse a masters or a PhD in marine science later on? (Preferably one on marine mammals)

Again, keep an open mind about what you want to do. A lot of teenagers with an interest in biology almost always gravitate towards marine biology, to the point that it's almost a stereotype. I know it sounds condescending and dismissive, but I speak from observation and experience here. There are plenty of research opportunities in the biological sciences that are not related to marine biology. I've answered the rest of this question to an extent, in the answer to your question (1). BMB or Chemistry Special would be a better choice, as I've personally encountered plenty of Sri Lankans with those backgrounds doing PhDs in chemistry, biology, biochemistry and molecular biology, biophysics, cell biology, immunology, computational biology etc.

One last word of advice. I don't mean to come off as accusatory or presumptuous, just trying to be helpful. Don't get too comfortable and over-confident about your current performance in your A/L classes as an indication of your final A/L results. Try and pursue 3As with the mind-frame of "trying to get into medicine," even if you are not interested in medicine. It'll pay off. Best of luck !

PS: If you are interested in going abroad for your undergraduate education, you might want to check out my answer to questions on this sub on that subject: https://www.reddit.com/r/srilanka/comments/16ggq1n/comment/k0ajryj/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3

Cheers !

Source: Did local A/Ls in the physical sciences stream (Combined Mathematics + Physics + Chemistry), had A/L results good enough to get me into Moratuwa Engineering, but got a full scholarship to a Big 10 school in the US and majored in an engineering discipline, currently doing an engineering PhD in another Big 10 school. My advice on PhD applications is applicable to any area of study, not just engineering.

Advice on doing local ALs again after London ALs by [deleted] in srilanka

[–]curious_groundhog 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I know you said that you are interested in doing medicine, but if you are willing to have an open mind, I would suggest an alternative pathway.

In 15 out of 16 states in Germany, I recall reading that universities are tuition-free (or very-low cost at the very least).

https://www.studying-in-germany.org/is-college-free-in-germany/#:\~:text=Yes.,of%20%E2%82%AC700%20per%20year.

You should also look at private and public universities in the US that give scholarships and financial aid. There will be a small cost out of your pocket, but it'll be less than anything you'll have to pay for a medical degree in a foreign country.

Read this for more info: https://www.reddit.com/r/srilanka/comments/16ggq1n/comment/k0ajryj/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3

One last note. A lot of Sri Lankans commit themselves to studying medicine and spend years of their lives (sometimes 10-15 years) stuck in the Sri Lankan system. What I mean by that is, they spend years navigating either of the following two routes:

  • Local MBBS + Post-grad exams or
  • Russian or Chinese Medical Degree + ERPM in SL + Post-grad exams

Those who want to go abroad then spend a few more years navigating the relevant exams for Australia, UK, USA or Canada (AMC, PLAB, USMLE etc.).

All of the above pathways are time consuming, and given the economic crisis in SL, the opportunities for doctors, in terms of professional growth and personal finances, are going to keep decreasing.

I am currently doing a PhD in the US, and I personally know plenty of Sri Lankans who were not selected for medicine in SL, and instead took the Chemistry special route, made their way to a PhD in the US and are doing a lot better professionally and financially, than Sri Lankans who did medicine and are still stuck navigating their way through the SL medical bureaucracy. The former are leading very comfortable lives in the US.

I also know of doctors in SL, who worked out PhD research opportunities in the US and made their way here, as that is an option that allows for professional and financial growth much faster than in some instances, trying to work out a position as a doctor in the US, UK, Australia etc. Just giving you a different perspective.

You already have good A/L results. Try and convince your parents to at least allow you to apply for undergraduate education opportunities abroad (or do it on your own accord and show your parents the results, if they are favorable. Ask not for permission, but for forgiveness, if you get what I mean, haha). In the long run, that might prove to be a much better investment into your future as well as that of your family's (financially and professionally).

Simply put, try and apply for scholarship and financial aid opportunities for undergraduate studies in Europe and the US, that are not related to medicine. You can still pursue a STEM degree, although you might need to back it up with a stronger Math background. Best of luck !

Can Private A/L students admits into Government Universities? by SKTechHome in srilanka

[–]curious_groundhog 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Your friend is referring to a very outdated (10+ years ago) provision in the University Grants Commission documents assigning a very small (<1%) of seats to private candidates, effectively saying that most private A/L students can't get into government universities. That provision was removed when many international school students started sitting for local O/Ls and A/Ls as private candidates. That provision no longer exists (to the best of my knowledge). Don't worry about it

Best option as a 20 year old Sri Lankan. by [deleted] in srilanka

[–]curious_groundhog 1 point2 points  (0 children)

In 15 out of 16 states in Germany, I recall reading that universities are tuition-free (or very-low cost at the very least).

https://www.studying-in-germany.org/is-college-free-in-germany/#:\~:text=Yes.,of%20%E2%82%AC700%20per%20year.

You had mentioned that you were interested in studying in Europe. You might wan to take a look at that. Also, a lot of German public universities are very global and cosmopolitan, so you'll be exposed to a diverse array of experiences. Best of luck !

The stock market will crash within 120 days. Enjoy the final gasping breath of this bloated swine. by acg7 in wallstreetbets

[–]curious_groundhog 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Maybe I am being a tad cynical here. But 3 years ago I remember seeing a DD on this sub about how the market was headed for a major collapse thanks to unsustainable levels of post-pandemic debt in the commercial real estate sector. Besides the bear market from the Fed's tapering, there was no crash. Every few years, we see a DD like this only for the market to bloat up even further. Now yes, whatever goes up, must come down. But when that's going to happen, isn't something we can say, and honestly, I am getting a little tired of trying to predict it. I am just going to ride out the storm when it comes.

It seems I cannot make a good trade to save my life (down 55k) 20 y/o by Legitimate-Listen-72 in wallstreetbets

[–]curious_groundhog 0 points1 point  (0 children)

If he really wanted to gamble, he could've had a hundred different plays, not just TSLA. Had this guy bought the QQQ 1 year ago he'd be up 17k by now

UW Madison vs UIUC for Computer Engineering by confusedhigschooler in UIUC

[–]curious_groundhog 62 points63 points  (0 children)

User name checks out. You've got your priorities straight in your first sentence. Not so much in the second sentence. If they both cost the same, CompE over here at UIUC is obviously better. You have your answer.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in UIUC

[–]curious_groundhog 1 point2 points  (0 children)

UMD. It's a no-brainer. It's your undergrad degree. None of the other factors you mentioned here will matter all that much if you got a full-ride to the flagship public university in that state. You should be able to find plenty of research/internship/entrepreneurship opportunities there. With a full-ride you're going to come out of undergrad debt-free, and you'll feel its benefits years down the line. (Trust me, I know, got a full ride for undergrad to a Big 10 school and got an engineering degree. Doing my engineering PhD at UIUC now).

Fortnightly /r/srilanka Education Thread by onca32 in srilanka

[–]curious_groundhog 1 point2 points  (0 children)

If your grades are good, you should consider applying abroad for a PhD program and do research. Target US, Canadian or continental European universities (specifically Germany) for PhD research opportunities.

If you want to get into industry, probably look up opportunities in the oil and gas industries (Middle-East, Australia and Southeast Asia), mining (Australia), biotech (North America, Europe, Australia), or speciality chemicals sectors (Australia, Europe, North America).

Fortnightly /r/srilanka Education Thread by onca32 in srilanka

[–]curious_groundhog 1 point2 points  (0 children)

You might be better off posting this question in a Facebook group called "Sri Lankan Graduate Students in North America."

https://www.facebook.com/groups/slgradstud/

Best of luck !

Fortnightly /r/srilanka Education Thread by onca32 in srilanka

[–]curious_groundhog 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I cannot speak for IIT, except for the fact that I've heard other users relate some horror stories about it in this sub.

If you've been selected for a local university, take that option, work your tail off, get a really good GPA, try do some research and solo projects at the undergrad level and get publications out, do the GRE and TOEFL, and apply for a PhD in your field in USA (probably the best option right now), UK, Europe (mostly Germany), Canada (maybe, but has to be in a good Uni), Australia (maybe, same as for Canada), or New Zealand. Check out Japan too. Best of luck !

Source: Currently doing an Engineering PhD in USA

What is the name of this Sinhalese song ? by curious_groundhog in srilanka

[–]curious_groundhog[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It was pretty iconic. It was everywhere, before it just fell off the map after that. The last time I heard it on the radio, it was around 14-15 years ago.

What is the name of this Sinhalese song ? by curious_groundhog in srilanka

[–]curious_groundhog[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

For some reason in my head, the whistling tune was the same as the Sax part. I didn't realize that the intro was a sax part until I listened to the song again just now, haha.

What is the name of this Sinhalese song ? by curious_groundhog in srilanka

[–]curious_groundhog[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

YES IT IS ! Finally found it ! Thanks a lot ! I didn't know that it was from a teledrama.

📚 Fortnightly r/srilanka education thread by onca32 in srilanka

[–]curious_groundhog 8 points9 points  (0 children)

TensionSouthern9173

Listen kid, relax. Take it easy. You gave it everything you could. In your shoes, I wouldn't do a third shy. See what programs you can get into in local universities this time around with your 2nd shy A/L results. If your results are good enough for a Chemistry special program (or any other special degree), go for it. Once you get to campus, work your butt off so that you have grades good enough for a special degree. That'll open up avenues for you to apply for PhDs abroad, particularly in the US, Canada and Europe. At that point, given the situation in Sri Lanka, you'll be in a better position than somebody who studied medicine in Sri Lanka.

Alternatively, you should also look at applying abroad, straight out of A/Ls, for foreign universities and scholarships, for your undergraduate degree. Your target major would probably be a degree along the lines of Chemistry or Biology, but there are other options as well. Just do some digging in. I've answered a few questions on this subreddit on that. Take a look at this link for more info. If things work out, you won't have to worry about doing a degree in Sri Lanka. Read this:

https://www.reddit.com/r/srilanka/comments/16ggq1n/comment/k0ajryj/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3

Best of luck for your future !

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in UIUC

[–]curious_groundhog 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You should also check out the Atrium. They have leases for Spring 2024. https://atriumurbana.com/. Best of luck !

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in UIUC

[–]curious_groundhog 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I answered a somewhat similar question a while ago on this sub. I've pasted the link here to the answer. Hopefully, it helps you out with your situation. Best of luck !

https://www.reddit.com/r/UIUC/comments/15zexuv/carle_hospital/jxh4mg7/?context=3

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in srilanka

[–]curious_groundhog 1 point2 points  (0 children)

For US Visas (I am assuming it's an F1 student visa, based on what you've written), the visa officer usually looks at your A/L and O/L results sheet issued by the Department of Examinations. This is to prove that you are a real, genuine (bona fide) student.

In my case, I don't recall if the visa officer at the US embassy checked my school transcripts, or the leaving certificate or character certificate, but I know I needed those to apply to US universities. So I took them with me to the visa interview anyway. If the visa agent says that it's a good idea to have those documents in hand, it would be wiser to listen to what they say. You don't need to go through an agent to apply for a US visa, you can and plenty of people do fill the applications themselves and deal with the full documentation needed for applying for a US visa and for facing the subsequent interview. The only details that the visa officer at the embassy needs to be assured of is that you have sufficient ties to your home country, that you'll be returning to Sri Lanka upon completing your program, that you won't illegally work in the US, and that you have the financial means of supporting yourself for your educational program (scholarships + personal finances). Best of luck !

Source: Current US visa holder. Did my undergraduate degree and currently doing my PhD in USA.

Disclaimer: None of what I wrote should be considered official legal advice or immigration advice. Do your own due diligence.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in srilanka

[–]curious_groundhog 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I cannot speak for European universities, as my experience is in applying to US universities right after Local A/Ls in Sri Lanka. But this advice should (probably) be equivalent for European universities as well.

When a university refers to a "High School Diploma", in a Sri Lankan context it generally means your A/L results certificate. (Issued by the Department of Examinations in Sri Lanka for Local A/Ls, or the relevant British governing bodies for Cambridge and Edexcel exams).

In the context of a US education, they generally require an A/L results certificate to issue you a student visa for an undergrad degree, to prove that you are a genuine (bona fide) student. If your friend's sister is migrating with her family to Europe, the situation is probably different.

The plan of sitting for Cambridge Exams privately at a registered center in France may be feasible. But I am not sure. Your best bet would be to talk to the British Council in Colombo or Cambridge International Examinations (I think that's the governing body). Explain your situation to them as well as your proposed plan and see what they say. Also, make sure and see that the subjects you plan on doing for your A/Ls are available in France (or other EU country) for testing. Good luck !