University preparation: get ahead on your application over summer

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 07/24/2014 - 04:01

If you’re facing the daunting prospect of applying to university this year,
the summer holidays are the perfect time to get ahead. Make sure you think
carefully about all your options, as you don’t want to rush into a decision
at the last minute.

When it comes to your personal statement, you want to make sure you have
plenty to write about – this summer is probably the last chance you’ll have
before the pressure of preparing for your A Levels really kicks in.

Research the courses. Take a close look at what is on offer in the
subjects that you’re interested in studying. Remember to consider
differences in the modules covered, and how the courses are taught and
assessed.

Some universities may require you to do a year in industry for your subject,
while some places will give you the chance to spend a year studying abroad.

Other factors to think about include whether you want to do a joint honours
degree, whether you want to live in a city or on campus, and whether the
university offers scholarships and bursaries. It pays to do your research.
Make a note of when the open days are, so you can plan university visits in
advance.

>>IN PICTURES: University courses: better than
Oxbridge

Do some extra reading. When writing your personal statement, you will
need to be able to show that you’re committed to your subject. Simply
writing “I have a genuine passion in this area” without giving any evidence
won’t do you much good.

Make sure you take a look at the latest research in your subject, particularly
if you’re hoping to do a science degree.Think about expanding upon what
you’ve learnt in class – which topics have you enjoyed? Or is there
something else that you want to explore? A quick flick through some
university reading lists online might be helpful if you’re not sure where to
start.

Remember to jot down points of interest as you read – you might want to write
about it in your personal statement or discuss it in your interview.

Talks and Exhibitions. Your application will stand out if you have
something different to bring to the table – going to talks and exhibitions
is one way to do this.

If you’re hoping to study history, the Imperial
War Museum’s art exhibition Truth and Memory
might give you
another perspective on the First World War. If you’re applying to study
English Literature, the Virginia
Woolf exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery
might be one for you.

Places like The British Museum hold regular free talks on a range of topics,
so it’s worth seeing if there’s anything of interest.

Volunteering and work experience. For medicine, veterinary studies and
nursing, work experience will demonstrate your commitment to the field you
want to enter.

You might still be able to get a short placement at your local hospital or
veterinary practice, although these tend to be organised well in advance.
See if you can help out at a nursing home or at the local animal shelter –
not only will it give you valuable experience that may be useful in your
future career, but hopefully you’ll also get a sense of satisfaction from
the work.

When you write your personal statement, make sure you explain what you have
learnt and why it will help you in the future.

>> Getting experience without experience

Speak to current students. The best way to find out more about the
courses you’re thinking about is to speak to someone who is doing it at the
moment.

They’ll be able to give you an honest picture of what it’s really like, and
tell you a bit about how they found the application process.

If you don’t know anyone studying your subject, ask friends and family whether
they know someone. Many universities have student ambassadors that may be
able to tell you more. Hopefully speaking to a current undergraduate will
help ease any worries that you may have.

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