At this time of the year the thoughts of many older students and their parents are focused on their post school career. In our changing world there is a wide variety of choice for young adults as they leave school. Traditionally (ok when I was at school!) you would move from school to college, university, training, or straight into work. Nowadays more and more people are exploring the option of a ‘gap’ year between school and further education or employment. Next issue I will explore the benefits of a gap year. For now, for those of you set on a University career, here is some guidance from ISU’s IB Co-ordinator and College Counsellor, Ms Jan Groves.

College Choice

Your college list should include approximately five to eight colleges for U.S. and Canada. Six choices are allowed for UCAS.
One or two colleges where you feel you’ll most likely get in - “back-ups”
Two to four colleges that are overall good matches—75% chance. These colleges fit academically and socially.
One or two “reach” colleges—25% chance of getting in. These represent an admission challenge. The application fee for U.S. colleges is about USD $50.
The key is to plan your list now, so you’re not making last-minute decisions. Information from the CollegeBoard.com and UCAS.
For US and Canadian Universities
Information and application forms can be obtained from collegeboard.com

Deadlines for Application: Dec. 15, 2006

For UK Universities
Information can be obtained from www,ucas.com

Deadlines for Application:
Cambridge, Oxford, medical, veterinary or dentistry Oct. 15, 2006
Any other program January 15, 2007

Financial Aid is available from many US universities and several UK universities also offer bursaries, particularly for IB diploma students.

The Top Ten Strengths and Experiences Colleges Look for in a High-School Student

1. Challenging high school curriculum like IB.
2. Grades representing strong effort with an upward trend over the years.
3. Solid scores on standardized or external tests like SAT or IB.
4. Passionate involvement in a few activities; demonstrating leadership and initiative.
5. Community service activities.
6. Work or out-of -school activities.
7. A well-written essay or personal statement that provides insight into students’ personality and values. Focus on your internationalism and life in Africa, this will set you apart from other candidates.
8. Letters of recommendation from teachers.
9. Supplementary recommendation from adults.
Special talents that make you different
and unique.

Please credit this both to me – Kirsten Durward and to Jan Groves ISU. thanks