1. Timings: One of the critical aspects of the Kira interview is understanding and managing your speaking time effectively. Begin by practising recording yourself to see how much information you can articulate within 30, 60, and 90 seconds. This exercise not only helps you become familiar with your pacing but also ensures that you deliver concise and well-structured responses. Knowing the optimal duration for your answers allows you to convey your thoughts clearly without risking information overload or running short of time.

2. Structure Your Answers: Given the time constraints, it’s crucial to develop a structured approach to your responses. If you have 60 seconds, for instance, consider starting your answer with a statement like, “There are two points I wish to make on this topic.” This not only signals to the person watching the interview later that you have a well-thought-out response but also provides a natural way to divide your answer into two distinct parts. Structuring your response in this manner ensures that you cover all relevant points without feeling rushed or incomplete.

3. Show, Don’t Tell: In a Kira interview, the adage “show, don’t tell” holds immense value. Use concrete examples to ground the points you’re making. Employ phrases such as “in particular” or “for example” to provide tangible instances that illustrate your ideas. This not only adds depth to your responses but also showcases your ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. Whether discussing your academic achievements or personal experiences, using examples helps your responses resonate with the interviewer and reinforces the authenticity of your answers.

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1. University Foundation Degrees: Many UK universities offer foundation degrees that serve as an intermediate stage between A Levels or equivalent qualifications and full-fledged undergraduate programmes. One such example is the Foundation Degree in Business Management, offered by Loughborough College. This two-year programme equips students with essential business knowledge. Although it doesn’t guarantee automatic progression to a degree, it provides an ideal stepping-stone to higher education.
2. Year 0 Programmes with Progression: Some universities incorporate foundation years directly into their undergraduate courses, providing a seamless transition for students. The Engineering Foundation Year at the University of Liverpool exemplifies this approach. This one-year foundation programme prepares students for engineering degrees, ensuring they’re well-prepared for the rigours of their chosen field.
3. Private Campus-Based Foundation Programmes: Private providers like INTO University Partnerships offer foundation programmes on university campuses in partnership with renowned UK institutions. An instance is the INTO Manchester in partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University. Students who complete the foundation programme gain entry to their desired degree programmes, provided they meet the respective university’s entry requirements.
4. Art & Design Foundation Courses: Creative souls can take art and design foundation courses to nurture their talents. The Central Saint Martins Foundation programme is a prime example. It focuses on honing artistic skills and building a portfolio to prepare students for future endeavours in fine arts, fashion, graphic design, and more.
5. Private Standalone Foundation Degrees: For a more personalized and immersive foundation experience, students can explore standalone foundation degrees offered by institutions such as St Clare’s Oxford. These programmes are distinct from traditional universities and often provide a unique learning environment. Graduates of these programmes can choose to progress to a university or explore various educational and career pathways.
6. One-Year A Level Programmes: Students eager to fast-track their education can opt for one-year A Level programmes, as demonstrated by MPW. These intensive courses condense the traditional two-year A Level curriculum into a single year, allowing students to gain high-level qualifications quickly and apply to a wide range of undergraduate courses.

The foundation degree pathways in the UK are as diverse as the educational aspirations of the students who pursue them. To find the right pathway for your academic journey, consider your goals and research the available options, keeping in mind the specific requirements and unique features of each type of foundation programme.

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Ivy League Schools Without Undergraduate Business Programmes:

1. Harvard University: Harvard does not have an undergraduate business programme. Instead, they encourage students interested in business to explore economics or related fields. Harvard’s undergraduate concentrations include economics and government, which students with business interests commonly choose.
2. Yale University: Yale, like Harvard, doesn’t have an undergraduate business programme. Students can explore economics, political science, or mathematics, which can provide a solid foundation for business-related careers. Yale College majors offer diverse academic paths.
3. Brown University: Brown University, known for its open curriculum, does not offer an undergraduate business programme either. Instead, students can tailor their education to align with their interests and career goals. Brown’s open curriculum allows students to explore various subjects, but a dedicated business major is not available.
4. Columbia University: There’s also no undergraduate business programme at Columbia College students. Undergraduates who aspire to study business often major in economics, political science, or related disciplines. Columbia College majors offer a wide range of choices.
5. Dartmouth College: The same is true at Dartmouth – students with business interests often major in economics or other related fields. Dartmouth’s majors and minors provide numerous options for students, but a dedicated business major is not among them.
6. Princeton University: Princeton University, like most of its Ivy League peers, does not offer an undergraduate business programme. However, students interested in business often pursue a major in economics or related fields. Princeton’s academic concentrations encompass many subjects, but a dedicated business major is not part of the academic offerings.

Ivy League Schools with Undergraduate Business Programmes:

1. University of Pennsylvania (Wharton School): The University of Pennsylvania is an exception among the Ivy League institutions, offering a renowned undergraduate business program through the Wharton School. Wharton’s undergraduate business curriculum provides students with a comprehensive education in business administration.
2. Cornell University (Dyson School): Cornell University offers an undergraduate business program through the Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management. Students at Dyson can major in applied economics and management to gain insights into business principles and practices.

Even at universities with dedicated business programs, students must fulfil core curriculum or general education requirements ensuring a well-rounded education. For instance, the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School requires students to complete a set of general education courses encompassing various disciplines. Similarly, at Cornell’s Dyson School, students pursuing a major in applied economics and management must complete liberal arts and distribution requirements. This reinforces the Ivy League commitment to providing students with a broad-based education.

In conclusion, while it is true that Ivy League universities typically do not offer undergraduate business majors, some exceptions exist, such as the University of Pennsylvania and Cornell University. Even in these cases, students are encouraged to explore diverse academic disciplines through general education requirements. This approach aligns with these universities’ tradition of offering a well-rounded education that fosters critical thinking and intellectual breadth, regardless of students’ ultimate career paths.

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• Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA)
• The Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA)
• The American Institute of Certified Educational Planners (AICEP)
• Career Development Institute (CDI)

These memberships evaluate our experience and assure our intentional and ongoing efforts to be aware of and maintain a high level of knowledge within the ever-changing world of higher education admissions. There is much information, changes and updates that we must work to find and digest to do our work to the best of our ability. We are so aware of the importance of responsibility and take it very seriously.

The IECA Principles of Good Practice list that “a member’s primary obligation is to assess, make recommendations for, and represent each student accurately and fairly based upon a professional evaluation of the circumstances, requirements of the case, and needs of the student.”

The University Guys organise recruitment events for international universities to support greater awareness of the options available to students; nevertheless, attendance at those events does not make it any more likely for these universities to feature on the university recommendations that we present to the students and families we work with than those who have never attended any of our events.

Ownership Statement

The University Guys is a trademark registered in the UK and owned by Hawkins Global Education Limited (company number 10556077). This is due to a requirement by UK law, which does not permit a company to use the word “University” in a company name other than by those who are universities.

Hawkins Global Education is owner-operated. It has two shareholders: Sheena Mehta and David Hawkins, the two directors, both of whom work full-time for the company.

We have no outside investors or other shareholders. Our profit funds three activities: the salaries, expenses and pensions of our staff, reinvestment into the company, and tax and legal obligations.

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Here’s an overview of the business programs or related disciplines available at the different UC campuses:

If you’re passionate about pursuing a business education at one of the UC campuses, it’s important to explore the specific programmes and opportunities available at each institution. Some UC campuses might not have dedicated business schools but offer related programs like economics, statistics, or technology management. This can be a great option if you’re looking for a broader perspective on business-related disciplines.

Moreover, the UC system encourages intercampus collaboration, allowing students to take advantage of resources and courses across campuses. So, even if your preferred UC campus doesn’t have a business school, you can still access a well-rounded education in related fields.

The University of California system provides a diverse range of options for students interested in business and related disciplines. Whether you’re aiming for a traditional business degree or a more specialized program, there’s a UC campus that can help you achieve your academic and career goals.

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A Global Comparison With approximately 4.3 million students graduating from U.S. high schools each year, the competitive landscape for undergraduate admissions is staggering. This has led to the existence of numerous highly selective institutions. To understand the scale of this selectivity, let’s compare the admission rates at five US universities with peers from other countries:

The data clearly underscores the heightened selectivity of U.S. institutions when compared to their international counterparts, with more students chasing after the same number – or often fewer – potential spaces as are available at international universities. Thus, the U.S. boasts a higher number of “elite” universities, resulting in fiercer competition among students.

Highly Selective Universities Beyond the Top 25: The competitive nature of U.S. undergraduate admissions extends far beyond the top-tier institutions. Many universities outside the top 25 national rankings are still considered highly selective. To illustrate this, let’s look at the admission rates of Boston University, USC, Boston College, Tufts University, and Georgia Tech:

These universities may not carry the same prestige as the Ivy League, but their admissions are highly competitive. They house talented students who bring diverse strengths and experiences to their campuses.

To further emphasize this point, let’s compare the average incoming SAT scores of students at Harvard, Princeton, Duke, Boston College, Boston University, Tufts, Georgia Tech, USC, and Rice:

These statistics reveal that while the most famous institutions maintain a higher average SAT score, there’s no huge difference between them and universities which might not have the same international cachet.

The concept of a “backup” university in the U.S. embodies the complexity and diversity of the American higher education landscape. While aiming high and pursuing top-tier institutions is commendable, it’s equally vital to recognize that universities beyond the big names are often just as competitive. It’s easy to be fooled into thinking that a university ranked outside the top-25 is a “sure thing” – the reality is somewhat different.

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1. Academic Imbalance: In the UK, students are accustomed to specializing in a single subject during their undergraduate studies. This depth of focus allows them to become experts in their chosen field. In stark contrast, US universities often mandate a broad, liberal arts education during the initial years of study. As a result, UK-educated transfer students can find themselves grappling with an unbalanced academic schedule if they do go to the USA. They must invest time and effort in fulfilling distribution requirements in areas like foreign languages, arts, and humanities, which they have not previously encountered. At the same time, they have likely done more in their area of specialisation than is available in the USA. This can lead to an academic juggling act that, in the end, might not be worth the effort.
2. Fierce Competition: US universities, especially prestigious ones, boast a reputation for competitiveness in admissions. This is even more the case for transfers, where they often reserve only a handful of spots for transfer applicants. As of my last update in September 2021, statistics indicated the dire odds. For instance, Harvard accepted a mere 1-2% of transfer applicants, and MIT followed suit with similarly low acceptance rates.
3. A different process: Transfer applicants face a convoluted process that differs from that of freshman applicants. This deviation can be a source of immense frustration as the transfer application process requires a deep understanding of the intricate workings of US higher education and how they interpret a UK degree structure when considering transfer credits.

While the idea of transferring from a UK university to a US institution might seem like a golden opportunity, it’s essential to look beyond the shimmering surface. The promise of the American college experience often masks the stark academic imbalances, fierce competition, and complicated application procedures that await transfer students. For UK-educated individuals, the supposed benefits of a US transfer may not outweigh the risks and uncertainties, making it an option best approached with caution.

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Why Choose Belgium for Your Bachelor’s Degree?

1. Quality Education: Belgium prides itself on offering high-quality education. Flemish universities, which make up the majority of Belgian higher education institutions, adhere to the same rigorous standards as Dutch universities, as they are both evaluated by the NVAO (Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders). This ensures that your bachelor’s degree is recognized and respected globally.
2. Multicultural Environment: Belgium is at the crossroads of Europe and is home to a rich mix of cultures, making it a dynamic and diverse place to study. Studying in such a multicultural environment can enhance your global perspective and cultural awareness, which is invaluable in our increasingly interconnected world.
3. English-Taught Programmes: Many Belgian universities now offer bachelor’s degrees in English, making them accessible to international students. This allows you to receive a world-class education while pursuing your studies in a language that is widely spoken and understood.
4. Affordable Tuition: Belgium offers reasonably priced tuition fees compared to many other Western European countries. This affordability, along with numerous scholarships and financial aid opportunities, makes pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Belgium an attractive option for international students.
5. Access to Europe: Belgium’s central location in Europe allows students easy access to other European countries. This makes it a strategic choice for those seeking to explore the continent and experience diverse cultures during their studies.

English-Taught Bachelor’s Degrees in Belgian Universities

Now, let’s explore some English-taught bachelor’s degrees available at various Belgian universities:

1. KU Leuven – KU Leuven offers an English-taught Bachelor of Business Economics programme. This comprehensive degree equips students with a solid foundation in economics, management, and business, preparing them for careers in a global business environment.
2. Brussels School of Governance – This university offers a Bachelor of Social Sciences program in English. It focuses on policy analysis and governance and prepares students for careers in the public and non-profit sectors, equipping them with essential skills for addressing societal challenges.
3. CAD Bruxelles – CAD Bruxelles provides an English-taught degree in Multimedia and Communication Technology. This program combines creativity with technology, giving students the skills needed for careers in the multimedia industry.
4. Karel de Grote University College – Karel de Grote offers an English-taught Bachelor of Applied Information Technology program. Students gain expertise in information technology and are prepared for roles in software development, data analysis, and more.
5. Odisee University of Applied Sciences – Odisee offers a Bachelor of International Business Management in English. This program is perfect for students interested in international business and provides a solid foundation in management, marketing, and finance.
6. Thomas More University of Applied Sciences – Thomas More offers a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Computer Science program. Students learn the practical skills and knowledge required for a career in computer science.
7. DAE Kortrijk – DAE Kortrijk provides a Bachelor of Digital Arts and Entertainment program in English. This is an excellent choice for students passionate about game development, 3D animation, and other digital arts fields.
8. Artevelde University of Applied Sciences – based in Ghent, this university offers five different bachelor’s degrees in English in areas including business, journalism and digital media.

In conclusion, Belgium’s commitment to offering high-quality, English-taught bachelor’s degrees makes it an increasingly popular choice for international students. With its affordable tuition, multicultural environment, and easy access to the rest of Europe, Belgium is a great destination to pursue higher education. Moreover, the diverse range of programmes offered at different universities ensures you can find a bachelor’s degree that aligns with your interests and career aspirations. So, why not consider Belgium as your gateway to a world of opportunity and academic excellence?

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In this blog, we’ll delve into the reasons why students should consider the EU for an engineering degree and provide insights into five prominent universities in the region.

Why Consider the European Union for an Engineering Degree?

1. Global Recognition: European Union member countries are home to several prestigious universities with engineering programs that are globally recognized. Obtaining a degree from one of these institutions can enhance your professional reputation and open doors to job opportunities worldwide.
2. Cultural Diversity: Studying in the European Union means exposure to a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions. The multicultural environment fosters a global perspective and the development of interpersonal skills, which are invaluable in today’s interconnected world.
3. English-Taught Programs: Many universities in Europe offer engineering programmes in English. This ensures that international students, regardless of their language proficiency, can access high-quality education without a language barrier.
4. Cutting-Edge Research: European universities are at the forefront of engineering research and innovation. By studying in the region, you can actively engage with the latest advancements in the field and participate in groundbreaking projects.
5. Travel and Exploration: Earning your engineering degree in Europe offers the unique opportunity to explore different countries and regions during your academic journey. Whether you’re attending lectures in Amsterdam or conducting research in Munich, your European adventure extends beyond the classroom.

What options are out there?

Here are brief summaries of five European universities offering English-taught engineering degrees:

1. TU Delft – Delft University of Technology, Netherlands: TU Delft is a world-class institution known for its cutting-edge engineering programmes. For example, the Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering at TU Delft covers topics such as aerodynamics, space exploration, and aircraft design.
2. TU Munich – Technical University of Munich, Germany: TU Munich offers a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering. This English-taught programme focuses on electrical systems, microelectronics, and computer science. It equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the ever-evolving tech industry.
3. Politecnico Milano – Politecnico di Milano, Italy: Politecnico Milano provides a Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Land Planning Engineering. This degree, taught in English, addresses critical environmental challenges, emphasizing sustainable planning and management. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of environmental engineering and resource management.
4. INSA Lyon – National Institute of Applied Sciences, Lyon, France: INSA Lyon’s Bachelor of Science in Engineering is an excellent choice for those seeking multidisciplinary engineering studies. The programme prepares students for a wide range of engineering roles.
5. UC3M – Carlos III University of Madrid, Spain: UC3M offers a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Technologies and Economic Analysis, taught in English. This degree combines engineering skills with economic analysis, providing a unique perspective on how engineering projects affect business outcomes. The university’s location in Madrid offers a vibrant international atmosphere and access to numerous job opportunities.

Pursuing an engineering degree in Europe is a gateway to world-class education, cultural enrichment, and an exciting global career. Whether you choose to study in the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, France, Spain, or elsewhere, European universities offer unique programs designed to prepare you for a successful future in the field of engineering.

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