...Preparing for university application
David Thornber adds that many universities have online resources that are particularly helpful for international students. “Bespoke, downloadable prospectuses, virtual tours of accommodation and departments, online chat facilities, links to university social media channels – all help to inform you about the student experience a university can offer.” “Social media can be a very effective way of seeing what people are saying about a university,” says Danette Anderson. “Connect with alumni of the institution to find out what they have to say, too.”
Katerina Kanlis, international officer at the University of Essex, says, “Find out how the university supports international students and encourages them to become active members of the student body.” She adds that the university experience goes well beyond academic learning to include social activities and sports on campus. “So be sure to see what’s on offer,” she suggests.
USE YOUR SCHOOL’S UNIVERSITY COUNSELLOR
Most international schools have excellent university and careers counsellors, and David Thornber recommends that students and parents make the most of their expertise. “Many international-school university counsellors will have visited UK universities, or will be in close contact with international office staff, so their knowledge of entry requirements and admissions procedures will be up to date. Take every opportunity to speak to university representatives if they visit your school, or if you meet them at an exhibition. Ask lots of questions, and gather information.”
DON’T GET HUNG UP ON RANKINGS “Move beyond rankings when looking at universities,” says Patricia Croom. “Ranking methodologies rarely reflect factors relevant to the quality of undergraduate education and the student experience on campus. Consider instead aspects such as programmatic offerings, institutional size and location, opportunities for research, study abroad, and other engagement outside the classroom, plus breadth and quality of student activities and support services.”
FIND THE RIGHT DEGREE “My advice would be to think outside the box when it comes to bachelor degrees,” says Janice Grant, international officer for Abertay University, in Scotland. “Not everyone is cut out to be a doctor or a lawyer. If you are driven to study creative writing, or sport, or computer games, find the university that offers it.
“Academic success at school is important for university
entry, but so is personal growth in areas you excel in,” she adds. “You will get more out of a university degree in a subject you are genuinely enthusiastic about, with like- minded students, and can develop professional networking contacts, with a real chance of a happy and successful career. “Importantly, once you have a particular specialism in mind, make sure you have the right portfolio of subjects at International Baccalaureate, A Level or School Diploma to follow that dream.”
Katerina Kanlis agrees. “Pick a course with opportunities to pursue your interests and career ambitions,” she suggests. “You can choose from a wide range of degrees, including flexible and interdisciplinary courses, an industry placement year, or a year studying in another country. These experiences will also provide you with excellent graduate employment prospects.”
VISIT IF YOU CAN “Visiting the college is important; it’s a very big decision, so get on a plane,” recommends Danette Anderson. Christopher Hobson, head of student recruitment at
the Royal Veterinary College, University of London, agrees. “There is nothing like visiting a university to get a real insight into that institution. So, if you can afford, in time and money, to visit the universities that you are considering applying to, then I would strongly encourage it. “A large number of universities will be able to offer
visits outside the advertised dates, so be proactive and search for a contact in the international student recruitment team, and ask what opportunities they can provide.” David Thornber says that Durham University is seeing a rise in such visits from overseas students and their families; it had more than 60 in July 2015. He suggests a family vacation could be a good opportunity to build in trips to some universities.
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