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Past issues of our Newsletters here have excellent information on job shadowing, local and overseas university campus visits, alumni talks and many more. Do check them out!
FINANCIAL COSTS IN DIFFERENT COUNTRIES
FAQ BY ALUMNI PARENTS
USEFUL TIPS ON UNIVERSITY APPLICATIONS FROM PARENTS OF ALUMNI WHO HAVE OBTAINED THEIR UNIVERSITY PLACE.
PARENT 1:
Note that different countries have differing dates and application processes. Start doing research on the different courses and universities as early as they can. Try to visit the universities your child is interested in, they may not turn out to be what she or he had in mind.
PARENT 2:
Ensure that your child spends ample time crafting a convincing personal statement which showcases his or her
personality, strengths and understanding of the chosen course. Be as specific and authentic as possible, helping to proofread it.
Look at how the different modules of each course are assessed as this is an important indicator of how well your child will fare in the course. Some children prefer coursework over exams and vice versa.
Do not place too much importance on university rankings. Other factors such as university culture, specific course
suitability, city vs campus life, student demographics should be taken into account.
BEST WAYS A PARENT CAN SUPPORT THEIR CHILD WHILE APPLYING FOR A UNIVERSITY.
PARENT 1:
Research well on the universities your child is interested in, this can include discussion threads on various student forums. However, an in person visit is a good way for the child to assess whether it’s a right fit. Local universities have several open houses in March annually.
Encourage your child to consider courses or universities which may not be the usual top tier choices but which you feel might be a good fit for them if it's clear where their strengths and interests lie.
PARENT 2:
Be a sounding board for your child but be careful not to impose your own choices on him or her. Listen actively to
their thoughts and feelings throughout the process. It is normal that they feel confused and overwhelmed so it is important to reassure them that they can discuss things with you without fear of being judged.
POSSIBLE CONSIDERATIONS WHEN CONSIDERING WHICH UNIVERSITY/COURSE IS MOST SUITABLE FOR THEIR CHILD.
PARENT 1:
Ensure that your child has looked closely at the different modules offered by the universities even if it’s the same course, as universities may offer different modules based on their professors’ expertise etc even if the course names are the same or similar.
Your child may apply for a range of universities. It may seem like a lot of work but essentially it’s not that much extra work as the child can tweak his or her personal statement to suit the course requirements. This will ensure that there are plenty of options to choose from later on if he or she changes his mind about a certain university or country.
There are many new courses offered by the universities nowadays, with many being interdisciplinary in nature. These courses are forward looking and will suit students with various interests. Definitely worth exploring.
PARENT 2:
Encourage them to speak to as many people in industries and careers related to their chosen courses so they can make informed decisions. The career path your child has in mind might not be aligned with what it really is in real life. For instance, some occupations entail years of postgraduate study eg clinical psychologist.
ANY OTHER COMMENTS YOU MAY HAVE
PARENT 1:
It is perfectly fine if your child changes his or her mind at the last minute. The most important thing is that he or she has interest in the course. Do not force him or her to study something they have absolutely no interest in.
PARENT 2:
Always leave the final decision to your child even if you do not agree with his or her choice. Remember that it is your child’s dream and aspiration, not yours.
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