researching uk and us universities with year 12
TRANSCRIPT
Researching
Universities
Y12 Overview
Major Topics
Why Start Now
Why Research is Essential
How to Research Well
Differing Objectives for US & UK
Available Resources
Where to Start
Research NOW!
Why is Year 12 key for university research?
Year 13 is too late!
Applications are due Term 1 of Year 13—there’s no time.
Resources can be cyclical.
University visitors come to Bangkok only once a year, for example.
Research is a process.
It takes time to acquire information and carefully consider it.
Research is essential because…
In the UK In the US
Courses vary greatly.
Little flexibility to
change course.
Be sure to choose the
best one for you!
Wide variety on offer.
Ability to articulate
authentic fit improves
admission results.
Keep an Open MindIt’s important to be knowledgeable about options.
Don’t limit yourself too early on.
Keys to good research…
Trustworthy Sources
Multiple Sources
Student-Centred
Staying Organized
Assembling a university list…
UK - Apply to 5 unis total
US – Apply to 5-10 colleges
Other destinations
Ambition…with an element of caution
Far Reach
Reach
Possible
Likely
Safety
Personal
CareerAcademic
YOU
Making research relevant…
Enormous amount of university data available
Admission statistics
Course details
Academic environment
Extracurricular offerings
Important to assess in a holistic fashion – don’t let
one element dominate
Make data relevant by asking questions aimed at
assessing the student / university “fit”
Key sources of information…
Online
• Schools’ Sites
• Naviance
• UCAS.ac.uk
• CollegeBoard.org
• Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Line, etc.
• iTunes and phone apps
• General Guides
• Times Higher Ed Guide
• Fiske & Insider’s Guides
• Viewbooks, Brochures, Prospectuses
People
• Ms Walker, Ms Overton
• SHB University Visits
• Campus Visits
• Teachers, Parents, Classmates, Alumni (SAAP)
Online
Social Media
Connections & Relationships
University visitors
Admissions tutors
Email or telephone with questions
Connect via social media
Local alumni
Talk to graduates of the universities who live in Bangkok
Request interviews (US)
Campus visits
Trust your gut
Get off the beaten path
Visit schools you’ve never heard of
Staying Organized
Poor sources of information…
Random Internet Searches & Forums Easy to confuse similarly named universities
Unmonitored chatrooms, untrustworthy “advice”
Bangkok Rumour Mill Rumours are often biased and untrue.
Mum’s Cousin’s Boss’s Friend Every person’s experience with a college is unique.
Rankings Useful, but only in a limited fashion.
Outside Consultants Motivation often not in students’ best interest.
Where to start…
University visits
Higher Education staff: Ms
Walker, Ms Overton
Naviance
Take Aways
Keep an open mind – Enjoy being surprised and changing your ideas throughout this process.
Ask questions – Don’t be shy or afraid to ask about the simple things.
Use multiple resources – Print, online, in person.
Share your research – talk with parents and teachers about what you’re each learning and thinking as you go along.