In an insightful conversation, Ritika Gupta, CEO, Aaera Consultants, delves deep into the evolving landscape of international education with Triparna Ray. From the rise of emerging study destinations to the increasing emphasis on soft skills, real-world exposure, and the integration of technology in learning, she shares valuable guidance for students aspiring to study abroad. Ritika also highlights the need for institutions to align academic offerings with industry needs and discusses strategies to secure scholarships and ease the school-to-college transition.
What skills do universities and employers look for in international students beyond academic excellence?
With solid academic credentials, universities and employers are also looking beyond the borders of candidates, wanting people who are well-rounded and can articulate creativity, problem-solving, critical and analytical thinking, adaptability, and strong verbal and written communication skills. Both are growing increasingly in the globalized world, where leadership, teamwork, and cultural literacy are in demand. Soft skills, emotional intelligence, bouncing back from failures, and cooperating in today’s workplaces are critical for a career journey. Employers look for students who pursue experience through volunteer opportunities through their degree program, have demonstrable experience with experiential learning opportunities, and have the opportunity to transfer learning into real-world practice. Students who develop these experiences through either internships or volunteering while studying abroad would likely be more employable upon completion.
What factors should students consider when choosing between traditional education destinations like the US and UK versus emerging study hubs like Germany or Singapore?
When picking a country for their studies, students should consider several key points. This includes things like costs, quality of education, job opportunities after graduation, visa requirements, and how well they can peer into the local lifestyle. The US and UK boast some of the best educational institutions in the world, with a host of successful alumni to boot, but it’s worth noting that an education here doesn’t come cheap. However, developing study hubs such as Germany and Singapore also provide reasonably priced or even free education, opportunities to intern or meet industry requirements, and provide robust research opportunities. Language barriers, work permits, or post-study job outcomes should also be discussed. Ultimately, the decision comes down to educational and professional goals, expectations, and, critically, budget.
What are the best ways for students to secure scholarships and financial aid for undergraduate studies abroad?
The search for scholarships must begin as early as possible for students. They should check out university grants, government money, and private scholarships. These can be based on grades, financial need, or where you’re from. You’ll find them in lots of different subjects. These deadlines are important, so be careful with them. Apply for multiple scholarships and follow up regularly. Good grades, well-written essays, and after-school activities will raise your probability. It’s worth speaking to study abroad specialists to guide you toward finding alternative funds. Getting a part-time job or a student loan while you’re at school can also help.
What are the biggest challenges faced by students transitioning from school to college, and how can institutions support them better?
Switching from school to college life brings its trials of academic demands, personal freedoms, and adjustment questions, often cultural. Other overwhelming feelings emerge, like homesickness, time-management problems, and the shift to different teaching styles. These can be helped through the promotion of orientation programs, mentorship programs, academic and career counseling, and mental health support. Giving students the support for socialization through clubs and activities will enhance the community atmosphere. Further, it means assisting them with skill-building programs such as work placements, work experience, and soft skills. All the given support in advancing student skills goes a long way in preparing students for the next phase of life experience and development.
What role should technology and AI play in reshaping traditional learning methods?
Technology and AI make learning personal, make content easier, and keep students more engaged in learning activities. For instance, AI tutoring, adaptive performance-based learning platforms, and virtual labs enable students with gaps in their knowledge to receive support at their learning paces. Similarly, while students undergo online courses, simulations allow a practical, hands-on understanding of learning materials. Nevertheless, human interaction in education is important, so institutions must keep in mind when integrating AI appropriately while uplifting the students’ thinking skills, developing their interpersonal skills, and offering them social interaction opportunities. Furthermore, if used and managed correctly, education could be inclusive, efficient, and more relevant to their industry.
How can schools and colleges bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical industry skills?
Higher education institutions should remodel their curriculum by linking it closely with the field, and providing experiential learning on project-based service learning through student internship placements. It is supported with case studies, guest speakers, site visits, and other learning activities in emerging and growing job fields like artificial intelligence and sustainability. Colleges and universities are responsible for preparing students for future careers through ways of equipping them with problem-solving, entrepreneurial, and interdisciplinary learning. Most often, they provide partnerships with the industry leadership and audit their syllabus to keep pace with emerging trends in the labor market so that colleges can better prepare students in their graduate programs with job-like skills.
