QS Top Universities: Student Survival Guide - university housing, student support services, and more http://www.topuniversities.com/ Latest news from example.com en QS Top Universities: Student Survival Guide - university housing, student support services, and more http://www.topuniversities.com/fileadmin/images/qs/rss_icon.gif http://www.topuniversities.com/ 16 16 Latest news from example.com TYPO3 - get.content.right http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Wed, 20 Aug 2008 17:55:00 +0100 Gap year checklist http://www.topuniversities.com/ Exciting adventures with new friends in exotic places sounds an idyllic scenario. And with more and...
  • The only exception is perhaps footwear, some flip-flops, trainers and a pair of smarter shoes or sandals should cover you for all eventualities. You may also want to consider hiking boots if you plan on any trekking expeditions.
    • Always keep a close eye on your possessions, especially at airports or terminals. Never leave your luggage unattended or with a stranger and never carry any items over a border for anyone else.
    • While you may be having the time of your life on your GAP year, remember to keep in contact with those waiting for you back home. Emails, international calling cards and pay-as-you-go sim cards are all great ways of not only reassuring your loved ones you are safe and sound, but also sharing your experiences, making everyone back home very envious.
    • Remember you are a guest in someone else’s country so always dress and behave appropriately. This may mean not sunbathing topless or wearing shorts, mini skirts or showing bare shoulders. Be aware of religious dress codes like covering your head, shoulders or bare legs or removing your shoes before entering temples.
    • Make an effort to learn some key words or phrases of the language; they are useful and always appreciated.
    Before you leave on your GAP year, make sure you have all the important documents and details in order:
    • Make sure your passport is valid until well after you plan to return home. You never know, you may just want to stay longer than you expected!
    • Make sure you have all the correct visas for the countries you intend to travel to. For some places this can be a lengthy process that must be done before you arrive in the country, so plan well in advance. QS Top Universities has some visa advice to begin with: http://www.ukvisas.gov.uk/en/
    • Ensure you have adequate travel insurance that covers you for all the adventures you may get into; skiing, bungee jumping, white water rafting etc…
    • Make several photocopies of your passport, visa documents, travel documents (tickets) and insurance policies. Leave one with someone at home, take a copy with you (but keep it somewhere other than with the original items) and if possible scan and email copies of all your important documents to yourself. If your bags should get lost or stolen it is always helpful to have a copy of these available.
    • Give a copy of your contact details and itinerary to someone at home and phone or email them with regular updates if your travel plans change.
    Staying healthy while you are away on your GAP year can make the difference between a great trip and a terrible one. Tales of ‘Delhi Belly’ make an amusing anecdote years later, but are usually best avoided if possible.
    • Make sure you have all the requisite medical jabs and tablets before you embark on your trip. This may involve vaccination injections or malaria tablets, which you need to get well before you start your trip. Check with your doctor at least six weeks before you leave home. If possible, get an official record of all your immunisations and carry it with your passport.
    • A basic first-aid kit is important. Items you could include are painkillers, bandages, antiseptic cream, mosquito repellent, emergency diarrhoea remedies, sunscreen, and sterile syringes. If you're travelling where tap water is not safe to drink, take purification tablets or a water element.
    • Check to see if tap water is safe to drink and if you are in any doubt stick to bottled water. Similarly, in many poorer countries meat used in cooking is often not kept properly refrigerated and hygiene standards may not be as high as you are used to at home. You are often safer sticking to vegetarian options unless you can see how the food is prepared and cooked.
    Money makes the world go around, and is vital to keep you going around the world during your GAP year.
    • Work out a budget for your entire trip. It’s always better to over-budget and return home with some change than under-budget and be left stranded!
    • Try to avoid carrying large sums of cash on you. Only carry as much as you need for the day and in poorer countries carry smaller denominations.
    • Travellers’ cheques and credit/bank cards are often a safer way to have access to money.  Remember to keep your travellers cheques’ receipt separate to the cheques themselves.
    • Setting up online banking before you leave is a good way to keep control of your finances as ATMs will often not tell you the balance of your account.
    • Whatever forms of money/travellers cheques/bank cards you take, do not keep them all in one place in case you lose them or they are stolen.
    • Make your friends and family aware of how they can send you money via a money transfer service like Western Union. Western Union is available in more than 190 countries and territories and you can receive money within minutes.
    • Be careful of flashing too much cash around or other expensive items (cameras or mp3 players) as with anywhere in the world, it is never advisable to advertise yourself to thieves.
    Extra GAP year advice
    With all of the above taken care of, you are almost ready to pick up your guide book, don your back pack and head off for the adventure of a life time. For more advice and information on planning your gap year adventures the following sites may be of interest:
    www.gapadvice.org
    www.statravels.com     The Foreign and Commonwealth office in your home country, or its equivalent will also have many helpful hints and advice on traveling safely.
    Happy travels.]]>     Student Survival Guide Study Abroad UK GAP year Wed, 25 Jun 2008 10:49:00 +0100     Degrees, jobs, career and… Facebook http://www.topuniversities.com/ Studying for an undergraduate degree at a top university is the first step towards a successful... undergraduate degree is all about research, assignments, career opportunities and fun. Part of the undergraduate student experience is student life itself and in this day and age the place to share those student experiences is on social media sites such as Facebook.

    However, Facebook isn’t only for the undergraduate student community. Since its inception in November 2004, Facebook has gained 70 million registered users and is getting 25,000 new users every day. This membership includes not only fellow undergraduate students but also teachers, parents, corporate companies and employers. So is that photo album of your student antics during freshers week really the type of image you want to portray?

    Media reports have highlighted the need for undergraduate students, revelling in the freedom that university study brings, to censor their Facebook accounts, or alternatively, to ensure that student antics captured on digital photos aren’t made public or available to potential employers.

    But recent research reveals that Facebook users, and indeed undergraduate students, can breathe easy when job hunting. Apparently, three in four employers don’t use social networking sites as recruitment tools. A poll of more than 220 HR directors by Personnel Today magazine and law firm Charles Russell found that 73% of companies don’t check sites like Facebook during the hiring process.

    The study found that charities and retail firms were the least likely to use such methods, with just eight per cent and seven per cent respectively checking Facebook or similar sites to research applicants. Employers in the media, professional services and finance were most likely to go online to check out candidates’ profiles, with more than 35% of HR bosses from these sectors admitting they do so. One respondent also claimed to use such sites to headhunt. “We use social networking sites a lot to recruit people for the organisation,” he said.

    Julie Weston, HR director at the British Heart Foundation, warned that such sites were unreliable. “We would not use Facebook to check candidate information as the validity of the information is questionable. Also we believe it to be too intrusive to a candidate’s private life.”

    Michael Powner, partner at law firm Charles Russell, who conducted the survey with Personnel Today, said: "From this research it is clear that very few employers are using these sites as the basis for their recruitment decisions.”

    Students throughout the world’s top universities may all be breathing a collective sigh of relief upon reading the results of this research. Their Facebook profiles complete with photo albums, sheep throwing competitions and Harry Potter quizzes will be safely viewed by fellow freshers and not by potential employers.

    But students shouldn’t discredit Facebook altogether in relation to job opportunities. It’s not called a social networking phenomenon for nothing. Wall to wall conversations, joining a group, or attending a Facebook event can put you in good stead for meeting a potential employer or having that initial conversation. You may even find the job of your dreams through a Facebook message! Just make sure you submit your CV and not your Facebook profile when you go for the job interview.

    Notes: Additional information from Personnel Today, published by Reed Business Information UK (RBI UK).]]>     Student Survival Guide Study Abroad News & Advice Mon, 23 Jun 2008 11:35:00 +0100     US visas: what you need to have http://www.topuniversities.com/ The US is home to many of the world’s top universities and offers a varied and exciting place in...
    The first thing to know about obtaining a student visa is that it is a long slow process and can take months of planning. Almost all visa applications will involve an interview with a consular officer at the US embassy in your country of residence. The consular officer will assess your eligibility for a visa as well as verifying your intent to return home after you have finished your period of study (rather than stay in the US.) You will not be granted a visa if, in the judgment of the consular officer, you have not met all of the necessary criteria. Contact your nearest US Embassy or consulate at www.usembassy.gov for details on approximate wait time for appointments and visas as well as what you are allowed to bring with you when you visit the embassy.
    Types of Visa:
    There are three types of visa for studying in the US: F-1, M-1 and J-1.

    F-1, or non-immigrant student visa: This visa is for international students who want to study at an accredited US college or university or who wish to study English at a university or intensive English language institute.

    M-1, or student visa: This visa is for those who will be engaged in non-academic or vocational study or training at an institution in the US.

    J-1, or exchange visitor: This visa is for people who will be participating in a foreign exchange program in the US. Study in the US is usually for a short period of time of only one or two semesters.

    For all visa applications, you will need to submit a SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) generated document (either an I-20 or DS-2019), which is provided to you by your school. Your school is responsible for entering your information for the I-20/DS-2019 form into SEVIS once you have been academically admitted to the institution or accepted as a participant in a foreign exchange program. You and your school official must sign the I-20 form. Students will also have to pay an SEVIS I-901 fee for each program of study.
    Visa costs:
    The visa application cost is $131 per person (payable by the principle applicant, their spouse and/or dependents wishing to travel with them.)

    There may also be an additional ‘reciprocal’ fee on top of this. Check the following link for a country by country list of fees:  www.travel.state.gov/visa/frvi/reciprocity/reciprocity_3272.html
    The SEVIS I-901 is currently priced at $100 per principle applicant (not applicable to spouse or dependents). There is however a move in place to increase this fee to $200 for F and M non-immigrants and $180 for most J exchange visitors.
    What to bring to your interview:
    You must provide the following in your interview with the consular officer:
    ·    Visa-qualifying document (I-20 or DS-2019)
    ·    A completed application, Non-immigrant Visa Applicant (Form DS-156), together with a Form DS-158. Both forms must be completed and signed. Some applicants will also be required to complete and sign Form DS-157
    ·    A completed visa application form
    ·    A Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee receipt to show payment of the visa application fee.
    ·    A ‘reciprocal’ fee receipt (if applicable)
    ·    A separate SEVIS I-901 fee receipt
    ·    A passport valid for travel to the US and with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the US
    ·    One (1) 2x2 photograph. See travel.state.gov/visa/temp/info/info_1287.html for photo requirements
    You may also have to provide:
    ·    Transcripts and diplomas from previous institutions attended
    ·    Scores from standardized tests required by the educational institution such as the TOEFL, SAT, GRE, GMAT, etc.
    ·    Financial evidence that shows you or your parents who are sponsoring you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses during the period of your intended study

    During the visa interview, an ink-free, digital fingerprint scan will be taken as well as a digital photo.

    No assurances regarding the issuance of visas can be given in advance. Therefore final travel plans or the purchase of non-refundable tickets should not be made until a visa has been issued.
    Entry to the US:
    The U.S. Embassy/Consulate cannot issue an F-1 or M-1 visa more than 120 days before the actual start of the program in the US. (J-1 visas may be issued at any time.)

    You will not be allowed to enter the country more than 30 days before the start of your program on your student visa, if you are an initial entry student. If you want to come to the US more than 30 days prior to your course start date you must qualify for and obtain a visitor visa.

    Continuing students may enter the U.S. at any time before their classes start.
    On arrival in the US:
    Upon arrival in the US you will have to fill an Arrival-Departure Record (Form I-94) and a Customs Declaration Form (CF-6059). Since Form I-94 documents your authorized stay in the US, it’s very important to keep in your passport

    You should also have the following documents with you:
    ·    Your passport, valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected stay
    ·    SEVIS Form I-20 or the sealed envelope that contains your DS-2019

    In addition, it is strongly recommended that you also hand carry the following documentation:
    ·    Evidence of financial resources
    ·    Evidence of student status, such as recent tuition receipts and transcripts
    ·    Paper receipt for the SEVIS fee
    ·    Name and contact information for your “Designated School Official”, including a 24-hour emergency contact number at the school
    ·    If you are an exchange student then a letter from your home university stating your intent to return to your home university

    Always hand-carry your documents, do not put them in your checked baggage. If your baggage is lost or delayed, you will be unable to present the documents at your port of entry. As a result, you may not be able to enter the US.

    Student visitors must have their Form I-20/DS-2019 in their possession each time they enter the US. If you take a vacation outside of the US you will need you I-20/DS-2019 to re-enter the country.
    What next:
    Students should report to the office in their school that is responsible for assisting international students and scholars within 30 days of the date that appears on the SEVIS I-20/DS-2019 form to register for courses or to validate their intended participation. It may be called the Office of International Services, the Office of International Education, the International Programs Office, or some other similar name. That office must report your arrival within the SEVIS system. If this report is not submitted, you may be considered to be in violation of your status in the US.
    How long can you stay in the US:
    When you enter the US on a student visa, you will usually be admitted for the duration of your student status. This means you may stay as long as you are a full time student, even if the visa in your passport expires while you are in the country.

    However, if you depart the US with an expired visa, you will need to obtain a new one before being able to return and resume your studies. A student visa cannot be renewed or re-issued in the US; it must be done at an Embassy or Consulate abroad.

    Once you have completed your duration of study, as outlined on your I-20/DS-2019 then you are allowed the following additional time before you must leave the US:

    F-1 student - An additional 60 days, to prepare for departure from the US or to transfer to another school.
    M-1 student - An additional 30 days to depart the US
    J-1 student - An additional 30 days to depart the US

    It is important that you depart the US on or before the last day you are authorized to be in the US on any given trip, based on the specified end date on your Arrival-Departure Record, Form I-94. Failure to depart the US will cause you to be out-of-status. Being out-of-status in the US is a violation of immigration laws, and may cause you to be ineligible for a visa in the future. For more information on maintaining your visa status: http://www.ice.gov/sevis/sevisfactsheet.htm
    Some other things to consider:
    The US does not have a socialized health care system. It will almost certainly be a requirement of enrolment at you US institution that you provide proof of having purchased private health insurance to cover you for medical treatment. The international department at you US institution may be able to advise you on insurance options.

    Below are a few websites that may help you find more information on student visas for the US:
    http://www.unitedstatesvisas.gov/index.html
    http://www.educationusa.state.gov/
    http://www.ice.gov/ ]]>     USA Study Abroad Student Survival Guide USA Thu, 12 Jun 2008 10:23:00 +0100     Face-to-face or Facebook? http://www.topuniversities.com/ The University of Leicester wants to know if social networking sites help undergraduate students...
    Can online networking sites, such as Facebook and MySpace, help new students settle into university social and academic life and minimise the chance of them withdrawing from their courses?

    Researchers at the University of Leicester are now looking for first-year University of Leicester students who use Facebook to help their pioneering research into this issue. They should not be too difficult to recruit. Student use of the online networking site Facebook is running at a phenomenal level, with almost 10,000 present and past students and staff participating.

    Currently, 95% of 16-18 year olds intending to go to university are using social networking sites like Facebook and MySpace.

    “Yet we know little about how this phenomenon impacts on the student experience and, in particular, if and how it helps them integrate into university life,” commented Jane Wellens, Education Developer in the University of Leicester’s Staff Development Centre. “The expectations and online experience of the latest and next generations of students requires universities to think carefully about how, and whether, to use these new technologies and meeting spaces to enhance the social aspects of student integration into university life.”

    Dr Wellens is working with Dr Clare Madge, of the Department of Geography, Tristram Hooley, of CRAC, the Career Development Organisation, and Julia Meek, an independent evaluation consultant.

    Academic and social integration into university life are key factors influencing individual students’ experiences and the likelihood of their withdrawing from their student courses. Until now most research in the field has concentrated on academic support rather than integration into the wider social world of the university.

    Students are now so used to using social networking sites that one university in the US has actually been running sessions to encourage students to build up face-to-face networks. One aspect of the Leicester project is to explore whether there are differences in the longevity and nature of university friendships that students establish face-to-face compared with those they make online through social networking sites.

    The Leicester project builds on internationally acclaimed work the University has already started on teaching and learning online. “We recently used Facebook as a means of encouraging students on an online module to get to know one another,” Jane Wellens said. “This raised many issues such as where the boundary between public and private space is, and how comfortable students (and staff) of different ages feel regarding the use of such technology.”

    The Leicester project also draws on internationally recognised expertise by this specific team of researchers in online research methodologies. As Clare Madge of the Department of Geography at the University of Leicester stated: “This project will be using both an online questionnaire and virtual interviews, and will innovate in the use of Facebook itself as a site to conduct virtual interviews”.

    What Dr Wellens and her colleagues hope to establish from the new research project is how Leicester students are using Facebook as part of their social and learning experience and whether joining the University’s Facebook network before they come to Leicester helps students to settle down more easily to university life. They will also be looking to see if there is any way that university support services and academic departments can use the online social networking sites to help students integrate into university life, and how the sites might be re-shaping our everyday lives in terms of the importance of place-based versus virtual networking.

    Research results are expected to influence university policies at Leicester and beyond. “It may affect the way the University uses its Facebook network,” said Dr Wellens. “One outcome might be that the University would use these sites to bring new students together before their arrival, or to bring together current and new students to provide peer support. It will also ascertain students’ views about the ways in which the University and its staff should, or shouldn’t, use Facebook for academic purposes.”

    The project has received funding from the Teaching Enhancement Forum and the Registrar at the University of Leicester.

    Press release distributed by the University of Leicester]]>     Student Survival Guide UK Fri, 06 Jun 2008 10:48:00 +0100     TCD: first in Ireland to join iTunes U in the iTunes Store http://www.topuniversities.com/ Undergraduate students in Ireland can now listen to music and university lectures on their iPods....
    The teaching impact of this project will include: delivering easy 24 hour access to educational material; distance learning; providing aide-memoirs for students; pre-recording lectures to make them available prior to the actual lectures thus making them more discussion based; and supplementing lectures given during core contact hours.

    Among the public lectures available for downloading are award-winning investigative reporter, Seymour Hersh; scientist and broadcaster, Prof Robert Winston; renowned Indian author, Anita Desai; and The First Minister of Scotland, Alex Salmond, MSP. People who download podcasts to their computer can transfer them onto mobile devices. This allows students to engage with the content when and where they choose, whether it is at home while studying or commuting on the bus or train.

    Visit Trinity College Dublin on iTunes U in the iTunes Store at: http://itunes.tcd.ie This information was supplied by Education Ireland.]]>     Ireland Student Survival Guide Thu, 05 Jun 2008 16:59:00 +0100     Playing it safe, the student survival guide to university life http://www.topuniversities.com/country_guides/guides/article/playing_it_safe_the_student_survival_guide_to_university_life/ You’ve dumped the last box of your worldly possessions on the bed of your new room, introduced... Medical Services Make sure you register with the doctor and dentist on campus and know where their offices are. Don’t leave it till you are at death’s door before discovering where the medical clinic is!

    On a similar note, if you do have any medical conditions or allergies let your housemates or roomies know about them and what they can do if you should have any difficulties in controlling your condition. While it may be great fun to all cook together, if someone has a potentially fatal allergy this is information worth knowing before you sit down to eat.

    There can be a lot of emotional turmoil associated with the upheaval of starting university life and studying for your university degree. Most campuses offer some form of  counselling service that can offer support and help with emotional or psychological problems. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, it’s what they are there to do.
    Get active
    If you are feeling really energetic you may want to find out where the university health centre or gym is. It is also worth checking out local gyms/fitness centres as they usually offer good discounts for students.
    Money
    Lots of help is also available to make sure you keep control of your student finances. All universities will have a finance office that can advise and help students with money matters. They will also have details of undergraduate scholarships, grants and loans as well as information on finance for international students and study abroad scholarships. If you do get into trouble with loans and debt the student finance office can  help put you back on the right path.
    Insurance
    Sorting out insurance for your possessions is also a wise idea. Many companies have special student policies that cover items you are likely to keep in your room such as televisions, computers, laptops and stereo equipment. If you are studying in your home country and your parents have household contents insurance there can often be a special proviso written into their policy to cover your possessions in your university housing.

    In the UK if you wish to have a television in your chosen accommodation (either in your room or shared in communal living areas) you must remember to buy a television licence. They cost around £125 and it is illegal to watch television without one. There will be licence inspectors that call in at your accommodation to ensure you have a license and there are hefty fines or even imprisonment if you fail to produce one.

    Finally, drinking is often the downfall of many students, have fun but don’t get too carried away. Here are a few simple guidelines to drinking sensibly and playing it safe

    ·    Pace yourself; alternate alcoholic drinks with water or soft drinks
    ·    Eat before you start drinking
    ·    Drink in groups – don’t be left on your own
    ·    Only drink once a week
    ·    Don’t drink if you’re completely drunk
    ·    Don’t accept drinks from strangers and don’t leave your drink unattended
    ·    Look out for your friends and make sure they look out for you.
    ·    Ensure you have a safe way to get home after a night out drinking, either a designated driver or get numbers of licensed taxis before you go out. Do not take unlicensed taxis or minicabs. If you are unsure do not get in, ask a nearby bar/restaurant/club to call you a cab.
    ·    Familiarize yourself with the local town. Be aware of any areas that may be considered unsafe and are best avoided.]]>     International Study Abroad Guides Student Survival Guide Study Abroad Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:11:00 +0100     From Paris to Cardiff: experiences of studying abroad in the UK http://www.topuniversities.com/ From coq au vin and merlot to leek soup and Brains beer, QS TopUniversities speaks with Auriane...
    Originally from Paris, Auriane is studying for her undergraduate degree in politics at Sciences Po, Paris Institute of Political Studies. Her year in Cardiff is part of an Erasmus study abroad year before she heads home to begin her masters degree in finance. “Cardiff isn't a bad university, and I already knew the city quite well. The cost of living there is lower than in London too. In fact, I was guided by personal and material reasons: my boyfriend lives in Cardiff so I can live with him, which means my monthly costs are considerably diminished.”

    Auriane says the highlights of studying abroad as an international student is the time one has ‘to do some sightseeing, sleep, go out and enjoy oneself.’ The list of challenges, however, is slightly longer. “The English and the British! I mean, the language and the people. Some teachers can speak really fast and it can therefore be quite challenging to focus 100 per cent for an entire lesson. Though of course, this problem goes away with time.”

    As for the people, Auriane says she finds it hard to integrate herself because most of her classes are shared with first and second year undergraduate students. “Believe it or not, there is a big gap between a 18 year old English boy and a 20 year old French girl (lack of maturity and a sort of unconscious fear of the ‘older, opposite sex and foreigner’). With the girls, it is perhaps more: oh the bloody French rivals! It’s difficult to explain, but sometimes I’m very lonely, although I do take part in all sorts of things. Some people will be really kind to you but nothing more. You can't approach them easily and they certainly won't come to you.”

    These challenges haven’t stopped Auriane from enjoying herself though and she would recommend the study abroad experience to any other undergraduate student. “Reason number one is always the same: for the language. Then also because it is a big change from anything we've done so far in our country. For example, what I like best is that I have twenty times more free time than at Sciences Po and I'm not stressed out about work, papers and exams 24-7. The study abroad experience is very personal. For some it's going to be about money, for others it's going to be about getting as far away as possible from home.”

    Auriane has also encountered a few cultural differences during her time in the UK. “Students take part in all aspects of life at uni. They participate more in class when the teacher asks something and invest a lot of time in organizing nights out or the running of the students' union. People in general are much more relaxed than in France.

    “I don't miss home because I have found so many ‘extra curricular’ activities to be involved in, although I do miss Paris - the city itself. Cardiff can be a bit boring at times, even when you know where to go. And I confess I have a landline phone with free calls to France so I speak to my mum and dad every day. Who said some English students were immature?” she laughs.

    Auriane will return to Paris to give a concert before she returns to study. Her weekly organ recital doubles as practice for the BBC Chorus of Wales, which she will perform in her home city during the summer.  “Studying abroad is all about what you make your life be as an Erasmus student. If you choose to stay in your halls of residence moaning and complaining about the weather, the Welsh or how much you miss French cuisine, then I guess you might not enjoy your year abroad as much as I do!”

    And when summer rolls around, the Roman Catholic Church down the road will have to keep their fingers crossed another student studying abroad is as musical as Auriane.]]>     First Degrees UK France Study Abroad Student Survival Guide Thu, 10 Apr 2008 11:24:00 +0100     Top Universities Study Abroad Checklist http://www.topuniversities.com/study_abroad/study_abroad_news/article/top_universities_study_abroad_checklist/ So you’ve made the excellent decision to study abroad. You may be going for a month, an entire... Passport – This may sound silly and no doubt you already have your passport ready, but make sure there is a sufficient amount of time left on it before it expires! If your passport expires while you’re studying abroad you will be able to renew it, but try and avoid the hassle! Visiting embassies, standing in queues and filling out forms are the last things you want to be doing while studying in a foreign country.

    Visa – Applying for a visa for the country in which you intend to study for your undergraduate degree will be part of your study abroad application. If you are unsure of whether your university is indeed assisting in the visa process be sure to ask so that you have plenty of time if you have to apply for one on your own.

    Finances – Don’t just bring cash with you or leave all your money in an account. Ideally you will have cash, travellers cheques, and a credit card. You will also have an account which you can access with a cash card in your study abroad destination. Be savvy with your student finances. Make a budget before you leave. It might be difficult to stick to but you don’t want to make the common mistake of spending too much when you first arrive and then struggling to make ends meet for the remainder of your study abroad experience. Make a list of expenses; include everything from food to entertainment to possible travel within the country you are studying abroad in.

    International student card – The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is a necessity for every student studying abroad. With access to thousands of discounts around the world, including travel insurance and international phone calls, your ISIC card should be your best friend abroad. And if you want more than a card, the International Student Travel Confederation, the organization behind ISIC, has offices in 106 countries worldwide to help you with any travel-related issues you may face as an international student.

    Insurance – Insurance may be part of the ‘package’ you acquire as an international student studying abroad, but don’t take this at face value! Insurance is not a take-it-or-leave-it luxury. It is a necessity. If you become sick and need to see a doctor, or you have all your things stolen from a hostel, you want to know you have support. The good news is that most top universities around the world will not let you get away with having no insurance!

    Medical – Visit your doctor for a full medical check up before you leave home. Make sure you’ve had any vaccinations you may need for your chosen study destination. If you require ongoing care while being an international student, have your doctor send a copy of your medical records abroad. If you require prescription medication it is a good idea to take extra medicine in case it takes a while to find a good doctor. Foreign prescriptions are not always honoured abroad so allowing extra time before your medication runs out is advisable.

    Language – If you have chosen to study abroad in a country in which you do not speak the local language, take some lessons before you depart. Either take a course or find some ‘teach yourself’ books on the language. If you choose to teach yourself through books, be sure to incorporate listening practices (available on DVD from your local library, some bookshops, or online) to your language study regime. You may not master the language before arriving but you will have a grasp of the basics which can be a good basis from which to pick up the local language. And pack a phrase book as well. Being able to say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ will go a long way.

    Travel – Studying abroad gives you the opportunity to learn about a new culture and how better to acquire this knowledge than by exploring your new country. It may be a good idea to purchase things like rail cards or airline tickets before you embark on your study abroad experience, so that you know you have reserved time and funds to get the most out of your trip. Organizations like STA Travel specialize in student travel and will be able to help you plan your excursions on a student budget.

    For more study abroad travel tips check out Top University’s Student Survival Guide.]]>     Study Abroad Student Survival Guide Tue, 18 Mar 2008 16:03:00 +0000     The what, where, and how on student finance http://www.topuniversities.com/ The average UK student completing undergraduate studies will owe £12000 upon graduation. Similarly...  What kind of job? This will depend on your skills and interests, and whether or not you want your part-time work to be related to your field of study. Do you want a mindless job that brings in extra cash or a job which adds intellectual or physical capacity to your current skills set? This isn’t a test question! If you are an international student make sure to check your visa for any restrictions or limitations on where and when you are allowed to work.  
    Service jobs
    Waitressing, working the check-out counter at your local supermarket, bar-tending, taking on receptionist duties at the campus information center, stocking shelves at a bookshop – the choices of service jobs available to undergraduate students really are endless.

    To succeed in a service position you will likely be outgoing and comfortable dealing with the public. For many service jobs, like waitressing or bar-tending, you will be required to be energetic and happy to be on your feet for many hours at a time. Other types of service jobs like those dealing mainly with telephone inquiries will require you to be friendly, organized and comfortable speaking to complete strangers.

    Where to look – Your university careers centre is a good first port of call. They can help you find jobs both on and off campus that can fit with your interests and your time. Many positions can also be found online, www.snagajob.com is great for finding positions in the US, and in the UK, www.hotrecruit.co.uk is worth a look. Local and university newspapers, and student bulletin boards all advertise local jobs available to students and are often more area specific than jobs advertised online.

    Pay – Service jobs don’t usually pay very high (minimum wage is often to be expected) but if you are a waiter or bartender, for example, you may earn good tips. Make sure your employer puts you on the correct tax code, often as a student you pay much lower rates of tax or in some cases none at all, this can all add up pretty quickly if not checked!
       
    Skilled positions
    You guessed it! Such positions depend on your skills. Are you a trained lifeguard, techie, or piano player? Can you speak a foreign language fluently? Tutoring is generally a well paid and rewarding form of employment and can often utilize the skills you are learning while you study for your degree. Skilled positions pay more than service jobs but may be harder to come by. These positions can often be beneficial after you have finished your undergraduate degree. Finding a skilled job that relates to your eventual area of work can show potential employers that you not only have an academic knowledge of your field, but also some practical experience of working within your desired industry. Internships carried out during vacation periods often pay well and can give your CV added value when it comes to applying for positions after you have completed your university degree.

    Where to look – Post ads on sites like www.craigslist.com or www.gumtree.com advertising your services. Make ads and flyers to post in public spaces around your campus, most campuses have designated boards on which to advertise. Again your university careers service can help; they will have information of local job related initiatives and may recommend useful places to contact where employers require specifically skilled employees.

    Pay – Skilled positions pay the highest wages, and often it is up to you how much you want to charge. Private language lessons may go for US$30/hour but do some research online to find out what the ‘going rate’ is for your services in your neighborhood. Obviously, wages for jobs like lifeguarding will not be open to negotiation.
    How many hours?
    This depends on your study schedule. Arts and Humanities based subjects tend to have less hours of teaching per week, but time outside of class should be dedicated to course related reading. Life sciences and Biomedicine based subjects spend more hours per week on campus, usually in laboratories. Therefore your schedule of study may range anywhere from 5 to 35 hours a week (and beyond!) This can have serious implications on how many hours you will be available to work. A maximum of 20 hours per week is a good guideline; remember you are at university to get a university degree, not to work a part-time job!
    How to save
    Allocate funds for the necessities; accommodation, tuition fees, travel and food, then work with what you have left over. Put it away in a student savings account. Ask your bank representative or a student finance specialist to recommend a savings plan and stick to it. The faster you get out of debt the sooner you can enjoy all you’ve earned at uni (and that’s not just money!)]]>     First Degrees UK Student Survival Guide Finance Tue, 18 Mar 2008 15:44:00 +0000     International study in the US: a first-hand account http://www.topuniversities.com/ When friends and family came to visit Rory Carroll they had to bring Branston pickle and baked... study abroad program and spent one year living in Southern California where he attended California State University in Fullerton- a change from his home university of Swansea in Wales. He fondly recalls the time he spent studying in California as one of the best years of his life. “There were times when it was challenging and really pushed me to extremes, but the overall breadth and depth of my experience as an international student has had a profound and positive impact on my life. I still can’t describe what the drink ‘Pimms’ is to anyone though,” he said.

    Rory decided to participate in the study abroad program to give him a chance to gain first-hand experience of the society and culture that he had been studying for two years as an undergraduate student. He also wanted to immerse himself in a way of life that was different to that in the UK.

    Swansea University helped Rory prepare for his move to the US: they produced a guidebook to dealing with relocation and pointed the way to educational websites for students that gave insightful accounts as to what to expect. He also took the time to talk to undergraduate students from the UK who had returned from a year abroad, as well as students from the US who were studying abroad in the UK. “I didn’t really feel a culture shock, as I think British and American cultures are becoming very similar. There were obviously no language barriers to overcome, although they do use a few words we don’t and vice-versa. I’m still not sure about calling my trousers ‘pants’!” He thinks TV and the media had already prepared him for his move to the States, but he missed friends and family from home and there were still some significant differences he had to get used to.

    Rory found that the structure of taught classes in the US was different to what he was used to in the UK. “In the US it is compulsory to go to all of your classes and read every inch of the set texts, but there is not too much required outside of this. In the UK it is almost the complete opposite; undergraduates are pointed in the right direction by their professors but are left to their own devices to find the appropriate resources and produce their analysis of it. I think a combination somewhere between the two would be ideal.”

    “As an Arts and Humanities major, I was used to having my work assessed on essays or end of year essay exams. The US system of mid-terms, pop-quizzes and multiple choice tests took some getting used to.’ Rory also found that public speaking and presentations were a far more common part of the US higher education system. “At first it was really daunting to give a presentation in front of the class, but you get used to it pretty quickly and everyone seemed to like the British accent.”

    Outside of classes, Rory also found a difference from studying in the UK. “It seemed all students in the US have a job and work while they study,” he said.
    Rory took up a part time job on campus in the events and information department. His student visa placed some restrictions on where and when he could work, but he said he was still able to find employment fairly easily and it really helped him to keep control of his student finances.

    When he wasn’t studying or working, Rory took full advantage of the Orange County (OC) lifestyle. “Most accommodation complexes in the OC had swimming pools and hot tubs, it was great being able to hang out with friends and have barbeques by the pool. In fact there were a lot more outdoor activities, probably because the weather was much better. In Orange County we were only 20 minutes drive from the beach, 45 minutes from LA, or three hours from the mountains where we could go snowboarding.”

    Like many students, Rory took a loan in order to finance his study. He says he was lucky in that he didn’t have to pay the high fees often experienced by international students when they choose to study abroad. Instead, he paid half of his normal tuition fees to his home university and swapped places with an American student. His local council also offered help with finance for international students and those wishing to study abroad.

    “I would advise anyone to take part in a study abroad program because no matter how hard it was at times, it was an emotionally, culturally and ultimately a financially rewarding experience,” Rory says. “I have made life-long friends around the world, it has broadened my educational experience and it also shows employers that I am adaptable to new situations and can understand other cultures and traditions, something that is increasingly important in the modern world.”]]>     USA Study Abroad Student Survival Guide USA Tue, 18 Mar 2008 15:24:00 +0000     Fraternities and Sororities: the secret history of Greek societies http://www.topuniversities.com/ While the secretive worlds of fraternities and sororities are not too familiar outside of North... undergraduate students. Fraternities are usually formed of all-male ‘frats’ while sororities are usually all female, though some co-ed organizations do exist. Fraternities and sororities do exist outside of North America, most notably in the Philippines and in some European countries, but for the most part they are a decidedly American institution. The general purpose of fraternities and sororities is to provide social support for their members, including both national and international students. Other types of fraternities emphasize service to the community, professional advancement, or scholastic achievement. Many fraternities and sororities are national or international organizations with chapters at individual schools. Most top universities in the US have chapters on campus and some even house the organizations' headquarters or ‘nationals’ on their campus. The societies’ headquarters helps to decide and standardize policies regarding membership, housing and behavior of members. Traditionally North American fraternities and sororities use two or three Greek letters to form their name and/or motto. This explains why fraternities and sororities are often referred to as ‘Greek societies’. Phi Beta Kappa, founded on December 5, 1776 at the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia is generally held to be the first organization to use Greek letters in its name. Sigma Phi, founded on 4 March 1827 in Union College, New York is reported to be the first fraternity to go national when it opened a second chapter at Hamilton College in 1831. Pi Beta Phi, founded in 1867 at Monmouth College, in Monmouth, Illinois was the first sisterhood, based on the model of male fraternity. Today there are over 1500 fraternities and sororities in existence that use Greek letters in  their name. Many Greek organizations are informally known more by their nicknames than their Greek letters. For example, Alpha Epsilon Pi is more commonly referred to as ‘A-E-Pi’ and Kappa Alpha Order is known as ‘KA’. Sometimes an invented word based on the letters, such as ‘Pike’ from Pi Kappa Alpha, or ‘Sammy’ from Sigma Alpha Mu is used. At other times the letters of the organization are shortened or removed completely, for example Psi Upsilon as ‘Psi U’ and Pi Kappa Phi as ‘Pi Kapp.’ Some organizations choose to go by just the dominant letter in their name, these include ‘Betas’ for Beta Theta Pi, ‘Kappas’ for Kappa Kappa Gamma, ‘Delts’ for Delta Tau Delta, and ‘Thetas’ for Kappa Alpha Theta.

    The process of joining a fraternity or sorority by undergraduates or international students usually begins with ‘Rush Week.’ During rush week a series of events and activities are organized by existing members so potential members can learn about each other and the organization. At the end of rush week, the various organizations offer ‘bids’ or invitations of membership. There is often a period of ‘pledgeship’ before a full invitation to the society is extended. The pledgeship period serves as a probationary period in the fraternity or sorority membership process where both the organization and the pledge decide they are compatible and will have a fulfilling experience. During this time ‘pledges’ must fulfill a number of requirements that may be imposed either by the school or the organization itself, often including a minimum grade point average, wearing a pledge pin, learning about the history and structure of the fraternity or sorority, and performing a public service. Finally there is a full initiation into the society by those pledging. The initiations often involve some form of secret ceremony or ritual known only to those in the particular fraternity or sorority. As part of the Pi Beta Phi initiation, female pledges are blindfolded as they are taught the society’s songs, pledges and secrets in an exercise of solidarity and trust. There is also a fee involved to join a fraternity or sorority which is decided by the society. If you’re considering joining a society, this cost needs to be calculated into your student finances. Fraternities and sororities also provide university housing for their members. The idea being that living together in a large house or apartment complex reinforces the bonds of brotherhood or sisterhood. The houses are often used to hold meetings as well as parties for organization members. The cost, liability and stability of the houses are overseen by an alumni corporation or the national headquarters of the fraternity or sorority. Houses also provide accommodation for visiting society members from different chapters, for international students, or those on study abroad programs. This can be a good way of seeing different parts of the US in an inexpensive manner and with locals who already know the area. The decision of which fraternity or sorority to join, or whether to join at all, is very subjective and down to the individual. Some undergraduates find their allegiance to a fraternity or sorority an important aspect of their identity both during their time of study for their university degree and in their career beyond. However, many people also decide that being part of a fraternity or sorority is an unnecessary drain on their student finances and get along just fine without joining one.]]>     USA Student Accommodation USA Tue, 18 Mar 2008 14:21:00 +0000     Life as an undergraduate student during “freshers week” http://www.topuniversities.com/ The first year of university brings freedom: no parents, no teachers, no curfew, but it also brings...
    However, that may all be about to change. As the Sunday Times reported on February 17, the government is considering plans to clamp down on the excessive intake of alcohol by undergraduate students, particularly during freshers week. Prime Minster Gordon Brown is exploring whether the Higher Education Funding Council, which distributes public money to universities and colleges for teaching and research, could use its powers to ban universities from encouraging excessive drinking on their campuses.

    Some universities and student unions are already taking steps to change the emphasis placed on alcohol consumption at freshers week. University of London's Goldsmiths Students' Union has closed one of its two student bars and transformed the space into a ‘non-alcoholic’ art gallery and performance space. It says it is responding to demand, citing a growing number of students who are teetotal for religious reasons and mature students with families.

    At Heriot-Watt University in Scotland a poster campaign, which details the exploits of ‘Boozy Betty’, has positively influenced student’s opinions on drinking. Billed as the hard-drinking, hard-living poster girl around campus, Boozy Betty highlights the weight problems, poor grades, sexually transmitted diseases and strain on student finances often associated with excessive drinking. The campaign generally received a positive response from students on campus and encouraged them to think and act more responsibly when it came to drinking alcohol.

    Christine Johnston from the student welfare department at Heriot-Watt said they are in the process of negotiating with the National Union of Students which has plans to roll out the campaign nationwide. Plans are also in the pipeline for a similar campaign aimed at males.

    But attitudes differ on the effectiveness of such a campaign. Many students consider binge drinking as part of the ‘norm’ at British universities and appear to be willing participants. Events like ‘pub golf’ bar crawls are frequently organised as a way of introduction and or initiation into university societies. In these types of event students are encouraged to consume different types of alcohol - largers, ciders, spirits and shots – in set amounts of swigs and in allotted times and record their drinks tally on a scorecard similar to those used in golf.

    International students     often have a different take on the undergraduate drinking culture at British universities. Most universities produce some form of guide for international and exchange students on what to expect and how to prepare themselves for the culture shock of coming to the UK. Almost all guides include a section on British attitudes, particularly student’s attitudes towards drinking and university life and usually tell students that going to the pub, even if not necessarily drinking alcohol, is a large part of British culture.

    The Department of Health says students need to be responsible when it comes to consuming alcohol. Drinking moderate amounts of alcohol doesn't often cause any problems, however, drinking too much can be harmful. It advises that men should not drink more than three to four units of alcohol per day, and women should drink no more than two to three units of alcohol per day.

    QS Top Universities Student survival guide and tips for safe drinking:
    ·    Pace yourself; alternate alcoholic drinks with water or soft drinks
    ·    Eat before you start drinking
    ·    Drink in groups – don’t be left on your own
    ·    Only drink once a week
    ·    Don’t drink until you’re completely drunk
    ·    Don’t accept drinks from strangers and don’t leave your drink unattended
    ·    Look out for your friends and make sure they look out for you
    ·    Ensure you have a safe way to get home after a night drinking, either a designated driver or get numbers of licensed taxis before you go out]]>     First Degrees UK Student Survival Guide Tue, 18 Mar 2008 14:05:00 +0000     Study Tips for Exams http://www.topuniversities.com/ It’s that time again. Say goodbye to fingernails, goodbye to your social life and goodbye to sleep....
    2. Organise your study space. Make sure you have enough space to spread your textbooks and notes out. Have you got enough light? Is your chair comfortable? Are your computer games out of sight? Try and get rid of all distractions and then arrange your books into piles. Put your English books in one pile, your physics books in another so when it’s time to study for that exam, you’ve got everything you need in front of you. It also eliminates any possible excuses!

    3. Design a flow chart. This is a bit like brainstorming, but instead of coming up with new ideas, you’re writing down everything you already know about a topic. Put it in an easy to follow diagram with key points that you can easily replicate in an exam. That way, when the exam starts, you can spend five minutes preparing for your answer and then expand on your ideas.

    4. Practice on old exams. It’s always good to find out what kind of questions are going to be in the exam and the best way is too look through old exams. That will give you an idea of the layout of an exam, the number of short answers and long answers there will be and the amount of time you should be giving each section.

    5. Explain your answers to others. Parents and little brothers and sisters don’t have to be annoying around exam time. Use them to your advantage. Explain an answer to a question to them. That will help you to get it clear in your head. If you find it difficult to explain, perhaps you need to do a bit more study. But at least you won’t turn up to the exam and realise you don’t know the answer to a question!

    6. Organise study groups with your friends. You may have questions that they have the answers to and vice versa. You’re social life doesn’t have to be non-existent during study times. Grab a pizza and your textbooks and get studying with your mates.

    7. Take a break. Don’t force yourself to sit studying for 24 hours a day. If you’re training for a marathon you don’t try and run 24 hours a day. Develop a study routine that works for you. If you study better in the morning, then start early before taking a break at lunchtime. Do something mindless in the afternoon and then start studying again in the evening if you know you’re more productive at night. Don’t feel guilty that you’re out enjoying the sunshine instead of hunched over your textbooks. Vitamin D is important for the brain!

    8. Snack on brain food. Keep away from junk food and opt for a bowl of nuts instead. They’re much better for the waistline and for the brain. You need to fuel your body while you study so make sure you eat nutritious food that has been proven to help your brain focus such as fish, nuts, yoghurt and blueberries.

    9. Pack your pencil case. Make sure your pens work and your pencils are sharpened. Nothing is worse for your nerves then having your pen run out of ink at the start of an exam. If you’re sitting a maths or science exam, make sure you have all the necessary equipment you’ll need as well like rulers, compasses and calculators,

    10. Stock up with sweets and water. Keeping your sugar levels up is just as important during an exam as it is during a football match. You need to stay alert and hydrate your body. If you start to feel yourself fade halfway through your exam, just pop a sweet into your mouth and you’ll be away again.

    ]]>     Study Abroad News & Advice Student Survival Guide Tue, 19 Feb 2008 16:41:00 +0000     Fraternities and Sororities http://www.topuniversities.com/student_survival_guide/article/article/fraternities_and_sororities_how_friendly_are_they_really_and_do_they_actually_welcome_international/ How friendly are they really and do they actually welcome international students? Student Accommodation Study Abroad Mon, 04 Feb 2008 00:01:00 +0000 Away from Home – How to make university your new comfort zone http://www.topuniversities.com/ The first week at university is likely to be daunting for everyone – especially if you’ve chosen to... undergraduate university degree you’re not quite sure you’re intellectually up to, and possibly the worry that funds may run short - it can all seem a bit less than relaxing. Not to worry, everyone is likely to be feeling the same way, regardless of whether they’re 3km from their family or 3000km, having chosen to study abroad. The good news is that within weeks there’s a good chance you won’t even miss home! One of the first things you may want to do during the first few weeks of the school term is become familiar with all of the services your university or college has to offer. Top universities around the world offer top services: healthcare, international student support, university housing, access to academic tutors, student finance advice, and career help are a few of the services many universities can provide its students. Many of these services are free – so use them.
    Health comes first
    Most universities have student health centres on or near campus. One of the first things you should locate is your health centre. Know where it is, how to use it, and keep note of its phone number. These sound like very basic tasks but you would be surprised what confusion often arises in times of emergency. Furthermore, your student health centre is likely to be free and can give you access to basic services like contraception or travel vaccines. Most health centres have counselors on site. Don’t be afraid to seek advice if you are stressed about being away from home or suffer from depression or anxiety. Remember that many other international students share your angst. Dr. Olivera Bojic-Ognjenovic, Counsellor and Therapist at the Counselling & Learning Skills Service at the University of Toronto, reports an increase in the number of undergraduate students using the counselling services, particularly to help deal with stress. “It’s imperative that students tackle stress before it builds up, and students are realizing this,” Dr. Bojic -Ognjenovic reports. Not only does the University of Toronto offer one-to-one counselling but more infrastructure, including a non-denominational meditation room have been set up to help the increasing number of students wanting to decrease stress levels, according to Bojic-Ognjenovic.
    Feeling at home
    Institutions that host international students are likely to have an international student centre to make students from abroad feel most at home. Schools like Bristol University or the University of Manchester, both in the UK, offer international students a wide range of services, including help with visas and work permits, English courses, and organized trips out. Chinese alum of the University of Surrey, Limei Lamari, turned to the school’s international office when she needed support: “They helped me deal with my immigration status by making things very easy. Instead of having to wait in a queue at the Home Office, all I had to do was fill out some forms and hand them to the international staff,” says Limei. “It wasn’t only faster, but cheaper.” Limei also used the school’s career centre before graduation. “They were very encouraging, and actually acted as life coaches at a time when I wasn’t really sure where I was headed after graduation,” she says. If you are really worried about studying abroad and think it will help to be around other students with the same concerns, you may want to see if your selected school has a centre for international students. Some schools even provide special international student accommodation purely for international students. UC Berkeley’s International House or ‘I-house’ as it’s known, provides such accommodation with the hopes of fostering multicultural respect and understanding, lifelong friendships and leadership skills for the promotion of a more tolerant and peaceful world,’ according to the I-house site. Now that may be a place to call home!
    When the Bank of Parents is closed
    What do you do when your parents refuse to give you that extra bit of spending money you received during high school? If you don’t want to go the loan or part-time job route, it’s time to cut expenses. Take advantage of concession prices. Cinemas, theatres, galleries, and even some restaurants offer the ‘starving student’ a discount. And never pay full price for transport. Major cities offer students a discount on trains and buses. If you are still struggling to make ends meet, look into applying for a student loan. Venkatraman Gopalakrishnan, a current student at Tuck, has a bit of advice for international students requiring loans: “The loan I received was part of the admissions package for international students, and the amount was based on the estimated self-funding ability at the time of admission.” Banks are sensitive to students and often offer interest-free loans to students throughout their studies. But do your research before signing anything. Debt is not something you want to carry with you too far into your career. Visit our student finance section for information and advice on undergraduate scholarships, loans and much more. Stay tuned to www.topuniversities.com for all the news you need for a successful time at university, and remember, you’re not the only one feeling a bit apprehensive about this exciting time in your life!]]>     Student Survival Guide Mon, 01 Oct 2007 16:18:00 +0100     Getting through your first year at Uni http://www.topuniversities.com/ QS journalist Marie Field has spent 6 years at Universities in both the USA and Europe. She...
    You’re probably thinking – what hasn’t been written about this topic and why is another 40 year-old school administrator about to tell me how to go about college or university life?! Well you’re at least partly right. I am going to give you a few tips and pieces of advice, but only from my own experience. I’ve studied abroad twice now – in the US for my BA and the UK for my MSc. Everybody has different experiences – many common and some quite unique. Nevertheless there are some basic things the new student can keep in mind in order to have a fun and successful university career, whether it be at home or if they choose to study abroad.
    Surviving the classroom
    Walking into a big lecture hall for the first time can be intriguing and intimidating. As you may be used to studying with 20 or 30 students in one classroom, large universities like UCLA often have 200 or more students in any given undergraduate course. Introductory courses like sociological methods or statistics for social science students, for example, are likely to have the greatest number of students in one lecture hall.

    If you’re worried about not receiving enough personal guidance, tutorial or ‘discussion’ classes normally accompany the lecture series of courses. These ‘discussion’ classes are often taught by doctoral students and are made up of a small number of students (often 10-20) so that each student gets the help she needs and opportunity to ask questions she may feel too daunting to which to approach the professor. Such groups are an excellent opportunity to learn from your fellow students and maybe even make some friends or study partners. Academics are important, but if you can also make new social connections, class becomes even more enjoyable.

    It is a good idea to make contact with at least two or three students from each of your classes. This way, you can exchange notes to maximize information intake, and have a back-up plan if you become ill or for some other reason can’t make it to a lecture. And of course, when exam time comes you will find yourself with a network of support – whether this means getting help with concepts you’re having difficulty grasping, or being able to meet up for a coffee in times of stress.
    Campus Life
    Campus is an exciting place. Where else can you find such a large group of bright people around your age, many having similar interests? A school’s campus is the epitome of community life, and sadly it emits a collective enthusiasm that often lacks in many other outlets in the ‘real world’.

    Joining a student group like the Recycling Team, Snowboard Club, or Asian Cooking Group (as you can see there is practically a group for any and every interest you may have!) can link you with students who may become life-long friends, while teaching you new skills and providing the feeling that you are part of a team. This is very important, especially for those studying abroad, as you may at first miss being away from your own network – whether that be friends, family, or a weekly group you attend.

    Fraternities and sororities are a good option, while I personally was not attracted to them. Some frats are known for excessive partying while others can be a bit tamer. Make sure you do your research before considering joining a fraternity or sorority. And remember – you will probably end up living with many people so if you don’t enjoy communal living, think twice. On the upside, my 37 year-old brother’s best friends are from his fraternity years, which goes to show that these communities can provide a lifelong bond between friends. And of course, fraternity members have that constant support throughout their studies – whether it be getting help to pass a math exam or dealing with relationship problems.
    Social Survival
    As mentioned earlier, there are many ways to meet new friends. You will never again have the same opportunity to meet such a great number of friends than you will have at university or college. The first few weeks can be intimidating, but student unions know this! Most universities offer a host of events throughout the first month of classes. Attend as many as you can and be as outgoing as your personality will allow. The University of Toronto, for example, organizes events like Coffee, Tea and You (to ‘discover the hot spots on campus’) and Strawberry Social (for International students).
    Surviving Stress
    Leaving home for the first time, academic and social pressures, and that sudden feeling that you’re an adult can be exciting and overwhelming. The good news is that top universities around the world have taken this issue seriously by facilitating resources designed to cut stress – if this indeed is truly possible. Most, if not all, top universities offer counselling services to help undergraduates deal with everything from stress to depression and anxiety, to bereavement and relationship issues.

    You may feel that your stress level isn’t bad enough (yet) to seek one-on-one counselling. This may or may not be the case, but as a new ‘adult’, you’ll have to be the judge. The good news is that many universities have put resources in place to assist the student not needing or wanting private counselling.

    Catherine McAteer, Manager and Senior Counsellor of the Student Counselling Service at UCL (University College London) believes undergraduates are greatly helped through peer assistance. ‘We reach students where they are and provide them the kind of support they can use at any given time,’ she reports. ‘Utilizing the online system can be a stepping stone to overcoming stress or seeking later support.’ The counselling centre at UCL also has a menagerie of books available to students who may not feel completely comfortable coming in to see a counsellor.
    Managing Finances
    Many students find they need a part-time job to help fund their studies/living expenses. If you do decide to work, make sure that your studies remain your priority. Juggling school and work can be a bit stressful at times, so if you feel it is too much to handle, visit your school’s administration and ask for a loan. Many schools offer ‘Emergency Loans’ like UC Berkeley’s Living Expense Loan which allows the student a maximum of $725 – interest-free for 60 days.

    If your school doesn’t give loans, they should be able to direct you to a financial institution that will be able to help you complete your studies without that constant worry over finances.

    Your university years will probably be the most memorable years of your life so try to enjoy every aspect campus life can offer.]]>     Student Survival Guide Tue, 18 Sep 2007 06:00:00 +0100     University life outside the classroom http://www.topuniversities.com/ Going to university for your undergraduate degree is not all about the lecture room or the library.... world’s top universities today, no matter what kind of academic program you are studying, the majority of your time will be spent away from lectures, laboratories and your seminar groups.  “The sheer variety of activities on campus kept me busy for the entire three years of my degree,” says Harsha de Silva, a University of Warwick alumnus from Sri Lanka.  “It was such an important part of my university career – being absorbed in so many different things away from my studies – and it helped me grow personally and probably made me a better student.”  Harsha’s experience is so typical of an undergraduate life, where involvement in university life is more than just studying or meeting your next essay deadline.
    A choice for everyone
    Universities all over the world offer an enormous range of activities to its undergraduate students, reflecting the varied social and cultural mix of young people on campus.  No matter what your interests, it’s likely that the university you choose to attend will cater for them – and on the rare occasions that this isn’t true, they will certainly provide you with the support to strike out on your own.  Social, cultural, political and sporting clubs are part of the life of every university in the world.  New York University, for example, offers more than 300 student-run societies and organizations, from those like the Operation Smile and Project Sunshine @ NYU that encourage students to become more engaged with the local community to the Bengali Student Association and the International Activities Club that represent the interests of specific student populations.
    Sports
    Sports too are an important part of undergraduate life.  Whether on a very professional level, such as the basketball and baseball teams of many of the USA’s top universities, or the more informal, though no less serious, sporting events organized by students themselves representing their hall of residence or academic faculty, sports provide a welcome diversion from academic life.  All universities offer a variety of sporting facilities for their students, often provided free of charge, that cater for a myriad of abilities and enthusiasms.  It is commonplace amongst universities and colleges in different countries to often organize a competitive league for students to play each other across various sports, encouraging students of all abilities to participate. Socially, life at one of the world’s top universities is as diverse as life away from campus.  Students’ Unions and Guilds in countries as varied at Finland, New Zealand and Singapore offer social facilities for all registered students that can include restaurants, bars, pubs and nightclubs, all of which enjoy university subsidies to reduce the costs of a night out.  Whether you’re the next king or queen of the dance floor, or a budding American Idol, such social facilities cater to your interests and budget, while helping you cement friendships that will last a lifetime.
    Help you career
    All these extra-academic diversions have an important role to play after the completion of your undergraduate program.  With more and more young people able to attend university, there are now more graduates than ever before entering the labour market, making the employment situation fiercely competitive.  Those graduates that succeed under these circumstances tend to be those that can offer something in addition to their academic qualification – an active campus life, an elected position in a student society, a study abroad experience or participation in a team activity all set you apart from your peers. Enjoying a challenging academic program in a top university is one thing; making the most of the overall experience is entirely different.  Leaving home for the first time, living away from your friends and family, possibly in another country, and creating your own environment is as much a part of going to university as gaining your degree certificate at the end of three or four years.  Enjoy this once in a lifetime opportunity!]]>     Student Survival Guide Study Abroad News & Advice Mon, 07 May 2007 04:00:00 +0100     Handling stress at university. It is possible http://www.topuniversities.com/ Stress. No matter how old or educated you are, stress will haunt you from time to time.... study abroad, academic and social pressures, and that sudden feeling that you’re an adult can be exciting and overwhelming. The good news is that top universities around the world have taken this issue seriously by facilitating resources designed to cut stress – if this indeed is truly possible. Leaving your comfort zone for the first time and stepping into a world where decisions and their consequences rest entirely on your shoulders can be unnerving, to say the least. Not only is no one there to cook for you, but the once annoying reminders to do your homework or wake up on time are gone but not forgotten. Many new undergraduates, accordingly, experience a substantial level of stress, and they’re not alone.
    Student support services
    Most, if not all, top universities offer student support services and counselling services to help undergraduates deal with everything from stress to depression, anxiety, bereavement and relationship issues. While stress can often be debilitating, it can also be decreased if ‘worked on’ upon onset. You may feel that your stress level isn’t bad enough (yet) to seek one-on-one counselling. This may or may not be the case, but as a new ‘adult’, you’ll have to be the judge. The good news is that many universities’ student support services have put resources in place to assist the student not needing or wanting private counselling. Universities like University College London (UCL) have implemented workshops to provide guidance to undergraduates not necessarily wanting or needing private counselling. Overcoming procrastination and dealing with stress are two of many issues dealt with in such workshops. Furthermore, students are encouraged to seek help amongst their peers. UCL’s Student Online Support Service is one formal resource the university has implemented in order to help students deal with a variety of problems – from stress to relationship issues. This service, which allows the student to log in anonymously, provides a platform for student interaction at a level unmatched by many face-to-face services. How better to confront your concerns than anonymously with a peer? At a very basic level, no one can relate as well to the stress an undergraduate is experiencing than another undergraduate.
    Peer-to-peer
    Catherine McAteer, Manager and Senior Counsellor at the Student Counselling Service at UCL believes undergraduates are greatly helped through peer assistance. ‘We reach students where they are and provide them the kind of support they can use at any given time,’ she reports. ‘Utilizing the online system can be a stepping stone to overcoming stress or seeking later support.’ The counselling centre at UCL also has a menagerie of books available to students who may not feel completely comfortable coming in to see a counsellor. Dr Olivera Bojic-Ognjenovic, Counsellor and Therapist at the Counselling & Learning Skills Service at the University of Toronto, reports very similar causes of stress amongst undergraduates. She stressed the importance of tackling stress before it builds up. ‘The centre is extremely busy around exam time. Students aren’t necessarily stressed about obtaining their desired marks, but underlying issues like depression tend to surface during periods of stress.’ The University of Toronto has even taken the extra measure of creating a non-denominational meditation room for those requiring tranquility. Olivera does explain that many students are simply worried about their academic performance, saying that an increased level of competition witnessed throughout the past few years has definitely contributed to higher stress levels amongst undergraduates.
    The good news is that receiving help, no matter how much or how little, is no longer taboo. Dr Bojic-Ognjenovic and her colleagues believe there has been a jump in male students coming forward to better their academic and social careers. What was once ‘uncool’ is now normal practice. Stress is often difficult to avoid but university resources are there to help. Preventative measures like addressing issues as soon as they arise are excellent, but when stress feels too tough to eliminate, do a bit of research to find out what your university can offer.]]>     Student Survival Guide Study Abroad News & Advice Wed, 02 May 2007 04:00:00 +0100     Ten hot study abroad tips http://www.topuniversities.com/ Tim Rogers advises on surviving away from home if you choose to study abroad. PhD program, the influence will be there.But how do you make sure that your study abroad experience is the best it can be?  The following top ten tips are aimed at helping you through the preparation for going abroad for your degree or international student exchange program.
    • Consider what country you wish to study in.  Much of the decision to study abroad is more about the cultural and social experience you are likely to have in your destination than it is about classroom considerations.  Studying in Australia is very different from studying in Singapore or Ireland.  Weigh up what you personally want from the country you are going to study in.
    • Research your potential universities very carefully.  Choosing the best university for your international study abroad experience is not all about an institution that comes top of the world university rankings.  It’s more about your personal preferences and interests so that the choice that you make is the right one for you.
    • Choose a university that is known.  It doesn’t have to be a world famous institution like the University of Oxford or Harvard University, but it should be a university or college that is recognised either in general terms or for a specific program or academic area.  If you think you will work internationally, it is vitally important that your degree qualification will be recognized wherever you go.
    • Make sure that the university you choose to study abroad at is used to welcoming international students to their campus.  It is important that they have a support network for you and that they are in a position to anticipate some of the questions that you might have.  Always look for an International Office or Office of Student Exchange and see what they have to offer you. See student support services.
    • Consider ways in which you will finance your study abroad program.  This is often one of the most crucial areas for all students wishing to study abroad, and can make the difference between going and staying home.  Financial aid, scholarships and bank loans are all available and are commonplace amongst the millions of students that study abroad every year.  The university you make your first choice should be one that offers some prospect of financial aid. See Top Universities Student Finance guide for more information.
    • Once you have a shortlist of universities and colleges that you are interested in, try and locate current and former students to help you make your final decision.  The universities in question should help you with this.  Alumni are often the very best source of information about life on campus, especially if they too are international.
    • Make sure that when you apply your application is in good time and complete.  Universities will rarely make decisions if something is missing from your application material and this will delay the whole process, reducing your prospects of being successful.  Prepare for any necessary tests well ahead of time and fulfil all requirements before you send off your application form.
    • Once you have an offer of admission and, if relevant, obtained your student visa, prepare for your study abroad experience.  Make sure you understand the procedures for getting international student accommodation and try and secure this before you leave home.  Through your university you will be put in touch with other students from your country and you can begin to make some plans.  Perhaps arrange to travel together?  Or at least start to talk about your forthcoming adventure.
    • Be prepared to learn a new language.  Many of the world’s top universities teach in English but are located in non-English speaking countries.  Learn a few phrases of the local language to help you adjust and meet people.  If the language is the same as yours, try and find out a little about the culture to make the most of your new environment.
    • Finally, enjoy the anticipation of your forthcoming international study experience.  You can’t plan for everything, so relax and make sure that you are ready for the basics – your arrival, your student housing and your first few days at university – and then see how the rest develops!
    The study abroad experience has much to be recommended.  Like so many, Ross McCalden, a graduate from the College of Europe, talks with amazing passion about his study abroad experience: “Being away from familiar concepts really opens your mind to new ideas of thinking and doing things.  I think you definitely get to know yourself better, it’s great for ‘character building’, and, of course, language skills.  I think it makes you a more rounded person.”  Good luck!]]>     Student Survival Guide Study Abroad News & Advice Mon, 26 Mar 2007 16:54:00 +0100     International student health http://www.topuniversities.com/ The same rules generally apply to your health as an international student as they would at home.... Research Look up the basic facts before you set off – browse the internet, speak to your GP, look at some travel guides. It sounds so simple, yet will be forgotten by so many international students! Some countries require immunizations prior to arrival, so be sure to check before you leave. You may need to arrange these a few weeks prior to your departure. Even if not stipulated, certain immunizations are often advisable, so check this and other general advice with your doctor or travel clinic. Check out other basic facts about the country. Should you beware of any certain foods? Is the water safe to drink? Are there any other diseases you need to be aware of?

    Planning

    Most of this section comes down to simply racking your brain and thinking what you need on a daily basis at home, that you may also need abroad.
    Before you leave arrange a check-up with your GP. This will give you the chance to speak to someone with whom you are familiar and feel comfortable and with whom you can discuss anything on your mind – and in your own language. If you have any pre-existing conditions or may require certain medication whilst studying abroad, ensure that all you need will be available. If not, arrange for supplies before you leave. If you are taking mediation with you, make sure you have all necessary prescriptions and labels, otherwise your trip through customs may be rather longer than you envisage. Are you allergic to any medications? Take details with in case they are prescribed to you whilst abroad. Also, take the phone number and details of your doctor should you need to contact them. Do you suffer from diabetes or any other conditions? Make sure you wear your bracelet in case of an emergency. Do you wear glasses or contact? If so, take an extra pair. It would not be possible to cover every eventuality here, but hopefully this will give you the general idea of how to think and plan ahead. To be safe, just ensure you have the contact details of anyone back home should you forget anything or be unable to find it once you are overseas.

    Insurance

    The majority of study abroad programs require you to submit medical forms on enrolment and depending on where you are coming from, you may be asked to produce any relevant documentation at immigration. You are also likely to be asked to provide health or medical insurance cover that covers your area of study. In France you will need proof of cover to secure your accommodation, whilst in Holland you need it to get in to the country! Medical cover in some countries is free. Again, this is something you should check before you leave. In the Nordic countries, for example, you may find that you are covered depending upon your circumstances, whilst in the UK it is free if you are enrolled on a programme of 6 months or more.

    Mental Health

    Depending on where you choose to study and what type of person you are, international study may bring somewhat of a culture shock. This can bring with it feelings of unease, nervousness and stress. However, following the tips we have given, and researching and planning before you leave, should minimise or eliminate the difficulties you face. Should you, however, find yourself in a situation where you feel uncomfortable, or perhaps homesick, there are always people to help you. Our international student support services section gives more details on how to best approach this.  Your university will generally have a department dedicated to dealing with such issues – and this should be your first port of call.

    Physical Health and Safety

    As opposed to your mental state, which you may not always be able to pre-empt, you are generally responsible for a large part of your physical health. If you follow the advice above, arrange a check-up before you leave, maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise, you should generally stay fit. Of course, personal safety is another issue.

    Safety

    Travel safety can never be guaranteed, so be sure to check up to the minute government advice:]]>     Student Survival Guide Wed, 18 Oct 2006 10:39:00 +0100     International student support services http://www.topuniversities.com/ As an international student who is new to a country, new to the culture, and perhaps new to being... international student who is new to a country, new to the culture, and perhaps new to being abroad, you are set to have one of the best experiences of your life. New people, new friends, new food and drink … a whole new world making for a great experience. However, it is possible that you may encounter some problems on your journey. This should not, however, be a worry to you. It is only normal to run into difficulties, and the only difference from being at home, is finding out who to turn to. Problems could range from personal and emotional, to logistical and legal troubles, but whatever the cause, there will be student support services that can help you. The international student support services at your university should generally be the first port of call. Should the problem lies outside the institution, for example, a problem with your private accommodation, or a personal or family problem, you may be wondering who you should turn to. Again, your institute will help or at least point you in the right direction. International student support services will help you settle into a new environment and assist with the practicalities of living abroad and completing your studies. They will help or advise on aspects of university housing, counselling, health and employment. If you do not want to turn to your university or they do not seem to be able to provide the support you need, there may often be alternative bodies designated to international student support. Nuffic, in Holland, is a good example. They have been assigned by the Ministry of Education to ensure that international students get the support they need. Their helpdesk has a specific mandate to provide international students in Holland with the information they need to deal with a problem they are facing. They do not deal with the problem directly, but will advise you and ensure you receive the necessary support. Universities are also happy and used to providing any required or requested support for students with special needs or disabilities – be sure to inform the admissions tutors at the stage of your application so that this can be in place for your arrival. There will be a relevant section on your application form. At the end of the day, the problems you encounter are unlikely to be different from those you would encounter at home, so just take them as they come. You will still be able to contact your family and friends for support, and there will always be local support services at your beckon call. For details on other aspects of student life and coping with certain situations, see the other sections of Top Universities’ Student Survival Guide, which details how to tackle accommodation, health, travel and food and drink. Our country guides also give more details on living and studying around the world.]]> Student Survival Guide Tue, 10 Oct 2006 17:43:00 +0100 International student accommodation http://www.topuniversities.com/student_survival_guide/article/article/international_student_accommodation/ So you've decided to study abroad. You now need somewhere to stay. This will be your home for the... Overview Accommodation is bound to be one of the first things that comes to mind when you consider study abroad and your final decision will be based on a number of factors. There are a variety of options when it comes to international student accommodation, and also a number of considerations and checkpoints you should run through before making your choice - which is also bound to be partially based on personal preference. Whatever your budget, and whether it be university housing or something in the private sector, there will be an option for you. As an international student, this may be the first time you’ve lived on your own, or perhaps even your first time abroad. It may also be the first time you have had to manage costs and deal with any aspect of accommodation.  It is, therefore, important to realise at the outset that this is a major decision. Your student accommodation will be a place you relax, study, and probably most importantly, meet friends, natives and fellow travellers.

    Planning, support and advice

    The general rule to bear in mind is that you are responsible for finding your own accommodation, but it is common for your institute to offer help or support – especially when it comes to university accommodation. This support may range from them going as far as actually finding a place for you (should you want to leave this to their judgement), to offering a range of options, to simply advising you the best practise to follow. As well as advice and assistance from your university, specific organizations exist in most countries whose purpose is to advise and take the burden off the whole process.  They also often have connections with various organizations and may be able to find you somewhere should you be having difficulty. (See international study guides for more information on these specific international student accommodation associations). Also be sure to check student notice boards, (especially for house sharing) and local newspapers also often advertise rooms, apartments and houses for rent. Depending on your preference, and also how well you plan ahead and research the student housing market in your chosen destination, you could end up in anything from a newly refurbished house, to a rundown student haunt.

    Types of student accommodation

    Depending on where you decide to study, your choices of student accommodation  may be quite varied and provide very different experiences. You will also find that in some countries, finding somewhere to stay will be as easy as falling off a log, whilst in others you will have to plan far in advance and often spend more than you may have envisaged.
    University housing - Campus accommodation/ Halls of Residence
    Campus accommodation is university run accommodation, and usually within the confines of the university. There are numerous advantages to this, and as such, this is more often than not the first port of call and the most beneficial choice. You will be close, if not living in the university grounds, so travel is not a concern. Safety is also often taken care off, especially in the UK for example, where there are usually staff or security, day and night, patrolling the housing. In term of your social life, this is as good a place as any. You will find yourself immersed in the cultures of other international students who have made the same decision as yourself, and also the natives who often stay in Halls for the social aspect of university life. Many Halls of Residence regularly organise social events to spur this on.
    There may be some downsides to staying in Halls, but it is often worth making some sacrifices. Kitchens and social areas will be shared. Bathrooms may be en suite, but will quite often also be shared. The quality of the accommodation and amenities may also vary. So be sure to check this out before committing.
    No university housing?
    Some countries, especially in Central and Western Europe have no campus accommodation at all. Germany and Holland have next to none, whilst in France it is reserved only for recipients of government distributed scholarships. In such countries, private accommodation will normally be readily available, although sometimes at a heavier cost. The social scene where you live will of course not be the same as in Halls, but will be compensated for in the city life where students are part of every day life and activities, and discounts will are readily available.
    Home-stays
    Another option, especially in the USA, Canada and Australia, is the option to stay with a native family. Home-stays as they are referred to, can be a great experience, especially for a quieter more reserved type who will not feel comfortable with the buzzing campus life. Your university will often help out, matching your interests with the family to make for the most enjoyable stay. Prices here will include all your meals, and offer the opportunity to learn the language and be part of the every day life and culture that you may otherwise miss out on. Some countries and institutes will arrange temporary accommodation for you before you leave, allowing you time on arrival to look around and make an informed decision on which type of student accommodation you will opt for.

    Beware!

    There are certain factors you must be sure to consider both before deciding on your student accommodation, and also at the end of your stay. The following checklist will help you make the right decision and make for a great adventure in a foreign country. Checklist:
    • Does the housing have all the furnishings that you need? Are they of an acceptable standard? Or do you need to provide your own amenities? Consider the following:
      • Is there a desk you to work at and enough space for your computer?
      • Is the kitchen equipped with cooking utensils?
      • Are bed sheets and linen provided?-Are there laundry facilities?
    Also:
    • Are there additional costs for certain services? Such as laundry?
    • Are you given a phone line? Do you have to sort this out yourself? How much will it cost? Do you have a designated internet line?
    On completing your tenancy you will most likely encounter another issue - retrieving you deposit. Landlords or institutes will often be extremely fussy in ensuring your apartments is left as you found it, and at the slightest opportunity, will keep some. or all of your deposit. Make sure that everything on your inventory is there. If not, see if you can replace it yourself, or you will most likely be charged more than it would otherwise cost. Consider the following:
    • Is everything clean? Including carpets, curtains, walls.
    • Is there any damage?
    • Basically, you should try to ensure that as you leave, the apartment looks as if you would expect when you first arrive
    ]]>     Student Accommodation Tue, 10 Oct 2006 13:22:00 +0100