Career Mosaic Chronicles #2

#NorthenHorizons Undergraduate Tour

Career Mosaic's Undergrad India Tour 2024 connects Indian students with US universities in North India. The tour features universities like UNC-Greensboro LIS , Worcester Polytechnic Institute , and San Jose State University , offering insights into studying in the USA, including scholarships, career pathways, and application procedures. Career Mosaic aims to facilitate discussions between university representatives, high school directors, and counselors about emerging careers and student profile development. The event also highlights university resources like co-op programs, internships, and student support services, providing a comprehensive guide for prospective international students.?

Enhancing U.S. University Admissions: ETS and Career Mosaic Partnership

In a strategic move to streamline the admissions process for U.S. universities, Career Mosaic has partnered with ETS . This collaboration aims to improve the verification of TOEFL scores provided by Indian students, ensuring their authenticity and reliability. This initiative is particularly timely, as there has been a significant increase in Indian students taking the TOEFL, reflecting a growing interest in pursuing higher education in the United States.

The partnership simplifies the administrative aspects of admissions and strengthens the trust in applications, benefiting both students and institutions. By facilitating more transparent and efficient processes, Career Mosaic and ETS are committed to enhancing the educational journey for prospective international students.

Upcoming events: ?

• NAFSA: Association of International Educators : Join Abhijit Zaveri , Shreya Raval , Nirmal Thakore , and Roxy Turner at NAFSA, where we'll be engaging with global education leaders to discuss innovative strategies and form transformative partnerships in international education.
• ICEF: Roxy Turner will be representing Career Mosaic at ICEF , connecting with top international student recruitment agents and educators to explore new opportunities and expand our global network.

Expert Insights:?

Parneet Shergill

• What role do school counseling departments play in assisting international students with the US university admissions process?

School counseling departments are pivotal in aiding students through the admissions process right from the time they enter Class 9. They offer tailored guidance, resources, and support, clarifying procedures, providing information on tests and applications, and offering personalized assistance. They also help with cultural adjustment, visa guidance, and advocacy, ensuring international students have the tools and support.

• What are some common challenges that international students face when applying to US institutions, and how does the counseling department address these challenges?

Common challenges include understanding the application requirements, standardized testing, language proficiency, and cultural adjustments. The counseling department addresses these challenges through workshops, individual counseling sessions, and tailored support for each student's needs.

• How can one assist students in selecting universities that best fit their academic, personal, and career goals?

Counselors utilize various tools and resources to help students explore colleges, including college fairs, online research platforms, and individualized counseling sessions to identify institutions that align with their interests and aspirations.

• How can international students prepare for standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT?

Students can use test preparation resources, including study materials, practice tests, and workshops focused on exam strategies and content review. Additionally, it is recommended that they use tutoring services tailored to the needs of international students.

• How can one assist international students with the application process, including completing application forms and writing essays?

Counselors provide guidance on navigating the Common Application or other application platforms, assistance with essay brainstorming, drafting, and editing, and ensuring that international students present themselves effectively to US colleges.

• What resources are available to help international students understand the visa application process and requirements for studying in the US?

The counseling department offers workshops and individualized guidance on visa application procedures, maintaining legal status, and understanding immigration regulations to support a smooth transition to studying in the US.

• How should students prepare to acclimate to the cultural and academic expectations of US universities?

Students should look out for orientation programs, and cultural competency workshops offered by universities. Many Universities and counseling support groups conduct these workshops which help students understand how to adjust to the academic rigor, social dynamics, and cultural nuances of US higher education. A number of YouTube channels and online articles are available for the same but one must be careful about what information is genuine and what is now.

• Can you discuss the assistance available for international students in securing financial aid or scholarships for US institutions?

International students seeking financial aid for US colleges can access resources provided by college counseling departments or international student offices. These resources include information on scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. Colleges also assist students in navigating the application process for need-based and merit-based aid. Additionally, external organizations offer scholarships for international students. By utilizing these resources, students can potentially alleviate some of the financial burden associated with studying abroad.

• What strategies should students employ to help overcome language barriers in the college admissions process?

Here are condensed strategies for overcoming language barriers in the college admissions process:

a. Improve Language Skills: Take language courses and practice regularly.

b. Use Support Services: Utilize ESL programs and tutoring offered by colleges.

c. Use Translation Tools: Verify translations for accuracy.

d. Seek Guidance: Reach out to admissions counselors for help.

e. Submit Clear Application Materials: Use simple language in essays and forms.

f. Prepare for Exams: Practice for English proficiency exams like TOEFL.

g. Seek Support: Get feedback from proficient English speakers in your network.

• How do schools continue to support international students after they have been admitted to US colleges?

Schools typically provide ongoing support to international students after admission to US colleges. This support includes transition assistance such as pre-departure orientations, continued advising on academic and personal matters, and networking opportunities. These efforts aim to help international students integrate into campus life, access resources, and foster connections within the broader community.

Study Abroad Buzz:?

Nearly 70 students choose the US for overseas higher education followed by the UK (54%), Canada (43%), and Australia (27%) reveals report

A recent study by Oxford International's Student Global Mobility Index (SGMI) highlights trends in Indian students choosing to study abroad. Despite concerns over affordability and safety, 69% of surveyed students favor the United States for higher education, followed by the UK (54%), Canada (43%), and Australia (27%). Quality of education and university reputation are significant motivators, particularly in the U.S. and UK. Parental influence is a major factor, with 71% of Indian students citing parents or guardians as primary influencers. The report, reflecting data from 500+ students from countries including India, Pakistan, Vietnam, and Nigeria, offers insights into the motivations and challenges shaping global student mobility.

Super Saturday at Hyderabad’s U.S. Consulate: 1,500 visa interviews conducted

The U.S. Consulate in Hyderabad hosted a "Super Saturday" event where 1,500 visa interviews were conducted to manage the high demand for U.S. visas. The Consul General, Jennifer Larson, participated personally in the verification process to expedite the application process. This event is part of an ongoing initiative since 2022, designed to streamline and address the increasing number of Indian citizens eager to travel to the U.S. for various reasons, including business, tourism, and family reunions. Larson highlighted the event's success and her interaction with applicants on social media.?

US most preferred destination for Indian students to study abroad: Survey

Oxford International’s Student Global Mobility Index (SGMI) reveals that despite concerns about affordability, safety, and security, 69% of Indian students prefer studying in the U.S., with the UK, Canada, and Australia following. The report highlights the significant influence of education quality and university reputation, with parental guidance being a major deciding factor. The study also notes that while the UK attracts students with its lower tuition fees, scholarships are a major draw in Australia. Over 500 students participated in this survey, illustrating the continued allure of prestigious educational institutions across these leading destinations for higher education.