In the previous episode, we explored Nikita Singh’s academic journey so far, her reasons to study in the UK and some important information about the course and the college. In this episode, let’s understand her motivation to pursue overseas education, research mechanism, and university application process.

What motivated Nikita to study abroad?

Nikita strongly believed in being a strong independent woman ever since the start of her undergraduate journey. Hence, she decided to opt for a study abroad program, which will give her the chance to develop a global outlook and gain a new life experience. She took a crucial decision to pursue higher education abroad as it will give her a competitive advantage to scale new heights in her career. As she is the first person in her family to go abroad for higher studies, she began her research during her undergraduate days.

Furthermore, some of her friends studying in Canada informed her about the application and documentation process. After gathering all the information, she prepared for the IELTS exam to be ready for her study abroad journey. At the same time, she began to work during the pandemic to gain work experience and thus, she turned the crisis into an opportunity, which she leveraged to secure a university spot.

Research – the most crucial part of the study abroad journey planning

Initially, Nikita shortlisted Germany and Italy as her preferred study abroad destinations as these countries have low tuition fees. However, it is essential to know their native language. Her cousin studying abroad recommended the UK to her as English is a widely spoken language. She was keen on gaining management expertise and hence, chose the International Management course.

Additionally, the duration of Nikita’s preferred course offered by the UK universities is 1-year, whereas other countries provide the same course for a period of more than 2 years. Since she preferred a course with a shorter duration, she opted for the UK university. She carried out detailed research to check the university rankings, facilities provided and other important aspects of campus life.

She highlighted a few important aspects, i.e., her daily commute, location, and connectivity, to shortlist the university. The major part of her research was conducted online. She gathered information from study abroad portals such as Shiksha and did thorough desktop research on the universities, tuition fees, the duration of the courses, the curriculum and other crucial parameters.

University application process

Nikita’s cousin gave her valuable information about the application process and required documents. When it was time to turn her plans into action, she connected with an education consultant for students who aspire to study in the UK. After conducting thorough research, she connected with the consultant who guided her further to narrow down the universities to apply. The consultant informed her that Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letter of Recommendation (LOR) will form a major part of her application.

SOP is an essay that conveys your academic journey so far, achievements, aspirations, career goals and everything about your academic journey. Most international universities will require this document to evaluate your application. Hence, writing an exceptional SOP and LOR is necessary to stand out. LOR is given by your professors or mentors from your previous educational institution. So, connect with your faculty member well in advance to inform them that you will require a letter of recommendation.

So, this is all about Nikita’s motivation to pursue overseas education, research mechanism, and university application process. In the next episode, we will learn about her academic intake, English proficiency exam, and the visa application process. Meanwhile, if you have any query, please remember we are just a call away.