Canadian Student Magazine // Issue:5

ISSUE: 5 • FALL/WINTER 2010

Study in Australia Top 100 Universities Medical Studies in the Caribbean Pennies for Peace Working Abroad Choosing a University in the UK

PROFILE

University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine School/Institution Name: University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine Institution Type: University Public / Private: Private Special Features of the Location: Located on Sint Eustatius which is a pristine, culturally diverse island in the northern Caribbean offering beautiful year round weather and minimal distractions from studies.

Programs Offered: Pre-Medical Program available for students who have not yet completed their undergraduate studies.

Doctor of Medicine Program—20 months Basic Science, 72 weeks Clinical Medicine = 4 years A Clinical Medicine Program considered by students to be one of the best in the Caribbean.

Total Number of Students: 400 active students (20% Canadian, 80% US citizens)

Accommodation Options: A variety of accommodations prevail; students live in the community and rent from local residents.

Student Life: Numerous activities related to the ocean and the island’s natural landscape are enjoyed, and the students have developed a variety of social and academic clubs.

Contact Details: University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine Tel: 516-656-9250 Email: info@eustatiusmed.edu Web: www.eustatiusmed.edu

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

Now, more than ever, healers are needed to see to the well being of a growing global community. Entering the medical profession is a time-honored path for individuals who strive to help their fellow man and improve the health and wellness of those around them.

Technological advancement, research, and increased knowledge of the human condition make it an excellent time to become a physician.

The University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine, located on the Caribbean island of Sint Eustatius (regionally known as Statia), was called into existence over 10 years ago to showcase the motivation, adaptability, intellect and caring nature of individuals seeking a career as a doctor of medicine. A strong, enhanced curriculum, combined with the commitment of its faculty and staff, is what has earned USESOM its reputation for unparalleled dedication to its students.

Considering your path through medical school is a serious undertaking. With over 600 graduates, we have proven that the standards required for enrollment in most North American Medical schools is not indicative of a student’s success.

Achievement in medical school is directly related to motivation, will, and tenacity; a “never give up” attitude coupled with knowing that your call to medicine transcends the possible material benefits. Our program is structured to accommodate that type of student and by applying to the University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine, every facet of your life and experience will be considered by our team.

The Pre-Medical Program includes four semesters of college level sciences

and humanities courses. This track is ideal for highly qualified students who are committed to the study of medicine upon their successful completion of high school. It is also a path for non-traditional students who wish to complete their prerequisite courses necessary for acceptance into the Medical Program (MD) at the University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine.

The Basic Sciences Program provides a strong foundation of knowledge, an introduction to clinical learning, and an awareness of cultural and clinical sensitivity necessary to practice medicine with a global perspective.

Successful completion of the USMLE Step 1 will allow you to progress to the clinical phase of your education where you will have the advantage of working in various clinical settings with access to prominent doctors and professors with advanced medical care technologies and therapies - encompassing the wisdom you will need to earn the trust of your patients and the ability to tend to their well-being.

Why the University of Sint Eustatius?

In two words: WE CARE! We care about the medical profession and the preparedness of our curriculum.

We care about our service to our students, and their service to the global community. We care about your individual success and interests, and your future opportunities.

Visit www.eustatiusmed.edu to learn more about the island and its culture, and our philosophy and curriculum.

We look forward to you becoming a part of our Sint Eustatius family in the near future and experiencing the Statia Difference for yourself.

Study In Canada • Study Abroad

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Vancouver

Thursday, March 3

Montreal

Saturday, March 5

Toronto

Sunday, March 6

SPRING 2011

www.studyandgoabroad.com

Message From

THE EDITOR Dear Readers: Here we are again, with another summer under our belts and the approach of Fall. Before we know it, we will be ringing in 2011!

As the saying goes, ‘Time flies when you’re having fun!’

The thing is, time flies either way, and we have to make the most of it at all times. The best way to do this is to set goals and start mapping out the best pathway towards reaching those goals.

This can mean anything from planning a surprise birthday party or long weekend camping trip, to organizing a trip abroad or a course of education. The main thing is that you set your sights high and work towards your objective with determination and confidence.

Canadian Student Magazine is all about providing ideas and resources to help you plan your education path and experiential travel opportunities, as well as inspiring you to balance your work and study with volunteer projects and activities that reach out into – and beyond – your community. All of these can lend themselves to great personal, academic and professional development and a rewarding sense of achievement.

Take the time to read the articles, profiles and ads. You are sure to find something that sparks interest or confirms your aspirations. Then use the contacts and ask lots of questions! The contributors in these pages are looking forward to hearing from you, and to hopefully being part of your short and long term planning.

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

Don’t forget to check back regularly on www.GoStudy.ca, the complementary website that has loads of information on country education systems, degree types, travel tips, etc. It is a great year-round resource for anyone looking for information on studying abroad or in Canada.

Lastly, visit the Study and Go Abroad Fairs. These fairs host education providers from Canada and around the world who want to meet with you. The next one will take place March 3-6, 2011, in Vancouver, Montréal and Toronto. So mark you calendar and don’t miss it!

I hope you enjoy this Fall/Winter 2010 issue of Canadian Student Magazine. I leave you with this quote: “The art and science of asking questions is the source of all knowledge.” Thomas Louis Berger, Author.

See you again in March!

Anita Kuehnel, Editor/Publisher Canadian Student Magazine

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INDEX

6-9

10-11

NEWS

12

STUDENT TESTIMONIALS

15

Profile: UNIVERSITY OF LIMERICK

17

Studying Medicine in the Caribbean

18

Profile: ST. GEORGE’S UNIVERSITY

22

Stages pour étudiants aux Etats-Unis avec le Programme Amity Intern Teacher

The Emerald Isle - Education in Ireland

26-27

Top 100 Universities

30-33

Study in Australia - An Experience that Lasts a Lifetime

34-36

Achieve Your Postgraduate Aspirations in a City of Excellence

47

20 Johannesburg - The heartbeat of Africa

Italy Embraces Foreign Students An Eduitalia Welcome

40 Étudier en Australie - l’opportunité d’une vie

44 Becoming doctors Down Under: Canadian Students Travel to Australia for Medical Training

50

24 Making a Difference, One Penny at a Time

rEvolve EPS Holdings Ltd. Director and Owner: Anita Kuehnel Chief Editor and Publisher: Anita Kuehnel anita@canadianstudentmagazine.com Administrative Manager: Sheila Fee sheila@canadianstudentmagazine.com

Wales - Higher Education

Consultant: Savaş Akar We thank the following for their editorial contributions: Cathy McNally Chaney Kourouniotis Christiane Leitinger D’Arcy Drachenberg Fareeda Chand Joanna Severino

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48-49

Canada’s Universities - An Overview

64-65

What is Service Learning?

Why is it an Important Part of Your Education?

Building an international profile in Spain 69

56

Top Five Reasons to Study in the USA

70-71

Working Abroad Adds Value To Your Résumé

72-73

SOS: Students Offering Support Student-led initiative helps students in Latin America

76-77

Top 50 MBA programs in the world Financial Times ranking

College Ranking Tables: How do You Know Which College is the Best for You? 84-85 86-87

Important Tips on Choosing a University in the UK Discover Korea

60 Think Education USA Discover Your Potential

80

74 Get a ‘Hands-On’ Education in New Zealand

Education UK: Innovative • Individual • Inspirational

84 88 YES - Entrepreneurs Can Change the World

Katie Edmonds Kelli Patterson Kelly Parke Liane Fraser Lies Ouwerkerk Lori Paris Luz Betancur Rehema Clarken Samia Chasi Sarah Edwards Yasir Majid

92 A Volunteer Project in the Chapada Diamantina Region of Brazil

Graphic Design: IQ Design A. Ender Birer Printer: Şan Ofset, Istanbul, Turkey Advertising and Sales: Katie ldle katie@canadianstudentmagazine.com

rEvolve EPS Holdings Ltd. 106-310 West 3rd Street North Vancouver, BC V7M 1G4 Canada Tel: +1 604 986 7704 Fax: +1 604 986 3047 info@canadianstudentmagazine.com www.canadianstudentmagazine.com www.revolve-eps.com

© 2010 Canadian Student Magazine™. All rights reserved. For editorial matters, please contact the editor. The views of contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the publishers. The publishers cannot be held responsible for loss or damage resulting from use of any information contained within this publication. Canadian Student Magazine is published semi-annually. Printed in Turkey.

T HF FOT H E

S S E R P

O

About 90% of world trade is carried by the international shipping industry and with nearly 71% of the world being made up of water – why not learn about this exciting sector? BI Norwegian School of Management have an exciting new Bachelor programme ‘Shipping Management’ launching in Fall 2011. Taught entirely in English, you will interact with and learn from an international group of fellow students with diverse cultural backgrounds, and develop analytical and strategic skill related to commercial, financial and organisational challenges in the Shipping industry.

Applications open from December 2010. www.bi.edu

Gain work experience in Europe!

The European Hotel Academy opened a new hospitality and language school in Vancouver and offers short term preparatory courses for hospitality together with cultural training and a guaranteed hotel job placement in Europe!

If you have just recently graduated from high school or hospitality college and would like to travel to Europe, you can apply at the EHA and work in a four or five star hotel in either the UK, Ireland or the British Channel Islands. The EHA team will give you full support while you work abroad and the ideal preparation before you leave Canada.

study@bi.edu

The Medical School for International Health is a unique collaboration between BenGurion University of the Negev and Columbia University Medical Center. This American-style medical school incorporates global health coursework into all four years of the medical school curriculum, and classes are taught in English.

Fourth-year electives are taken at Columbia University Medical Center and its affiliates, and students complete an eight-week Global Health clinical clerkship in supervised, clinical settings in underserved parts of world such as Kenya, Ethiopia, Peru, Nepal, India, Israel, Sri Lanka, Uganda, Vietnam and the United States. Residencies are conducted in highly-regarded medical facilities in the United States and Canada.

We make your stay a success and a fruitful life-experience.

Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Medical School for International Health, in collaboration with Columbia University Medical Center.

info@europeanhotelacademy.de www.europeanhotelacademy.com

www.cumc.columbia.edu/dept/bgcu-md

Daemen Graduates are Career Ready Daemen College internships prepare students for the real world. We know what employers expect and we make sure our students develop the professionalism, excellent communication skills, and the ability to solve problems they need to be successful.

Jessica Raimondo, a Daemen Business Administration/Marketing major, was an intern at Paragon Advertising in Buffalo, NY. She said, “I had an internship the semester before I graduated. It was the best thing – I was able to network and apply the skills I had learned in the classroom.”

Daemen works hard to coordinate placement for all of our students in high quality internship settings. For more information or to schedule a campus visit, call 716-839-8225 or go to www.daemen.edu/admissions.

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Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

Florida Southern Named a ‘Best Buy’ in 2011 ‘Fiske Guide’ Florida Southern College is honored in the 2011 edition of the prestigious Fiske Guide to Colleges as one of only 24 private “Best Buy Schools” among all private colleges and universities in the United States. The “Best Buy” list includes institutions with stellar academic programs, modest tuition costs, and outstanding student quality of life.

The Fiske Guide to Colleges is the No. 1 best selling college guide in the United States, and it contains information on 300 of the “best and most interesting” schools.

Florida Southern has been listed as a “Best Buy” in the Fiske Guide for three consecutive years.

High Point University continues to move up in the ranks, thanks to its continued transformation in academics, student life programs and facilities. The university was named No. 3 among comprehensive colleges in the South in “America’s Best Colleges” 2011 edition, published by the U.S. News & World Report. Last year, High Point was listed at No. 5 in the same report. Four years ago, HPU occupied the No. 15 spot. In the Regional Colleges category, HPU placed above all other schools in North Carolina, and above all but two of the 96 colleges ranked in the region. www.highpoint.edu

Professional Entry Health Science at La Trobe University La Trobe University’s two year Graduate Entry Masters programs provide an excellent opportunity for Canadian students with degrees in other areas of health or unrelated disciplines, to pursue a career change and obtain degrees that lead to professional registration in the health or welfare sectors. Located in Melbourne (Australia) the Faculty of Health Sciences at La Trobe University has an enviable reputation and a long history of being at the forefront of health science education in Australia.

Available for commencement in early 2011, our innovative two-year professional entry pathways include:

Study at University in Australia’s ‘Sunshine State’ of Queensland.

Ranked in the top 4% of universities worldwide - Griffith University offers over 300 programs including:

• Master of Physiotherapy Practice • Master of Occupational Therapy Practice • Master of Social Work • Master of Speech Pathology • Master of Health Information Management • Master of Clinical Prosthetics and Orthotics • Master of Podiatric Practice For a free information pack, or to meet with a representative in Canada, please contact international@latrobe.edu.au. CRICOS Provider 00115M

• Medicine, Pharmacy, Dentistry and Health Science: study at the beautiful Gold Coast campus and become a recognised Health professional. Pathways to an MBBS also available

• Education:

BA in Education, Graduate Diploma in Education and Master of Teaching. All recognised in Canada

• Business:

Follow an MBA that is ranked #2 in Australia and learn sustainable business practices.

• Financial aid available for Canadian students.

Embrace a world of opportunity! www.griffith.edu.au

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

Middlesex University offers visiting students the experience of a lifetime as you live and study in one of the world’s most vibrant cities. In addition to our three London campuses we have two additional campuses, in Dubai and Mauritius, where students can earn all or part of their Middlesex degree.

Our Dubai and Mauritius campuses offer a variety of pre-undergraduate, undergraduate, and postgraduate courses which are subject to the same rigorous quality assurance procedures that have earned Middlesex the highest possible endorsement from the UK’s Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education.

Learn more http://www.mdx.ac.uk/study/international

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Can we slow ageing?

Why do we grow old and what can we do to stop it?

According to new research published in the prestigious journal, The American Naturalist, a small set of genes in mitochondria passed only from mothers to offspring, plays a more dynamic role in predicting life expectancies than ever previously anticipated.

“As we unravel this complexity, we draw closer to the day in which we might use the genetic information encoded in the mitochondria to assist in the development of therapies that slow the onset of ageing in humans,” said Dr Damien Dowling, a research fellow at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia.

The mitochondrial genome is tiny, encoding just 13 proteins. Despite being so small, it can pack a punch when it comes to its ability to affect a range of fundamental biological processes.

Monash University www.monash.edu.au

Leading Public Health in the Caribbean This summer, the US Council on Education for Public Health announced its accreditation of St. George’s University’s Master of Public Health program. This University in Grenada, West Indies, is only the fourth non-US institution to be approved with this recognition.

The 11-year-old program is offered to students as an individual Master of Public Health degree, or as a joint degree within the School of Medicine or the School of Veterinary Medicine.

St. George’s University’s programs are approved and accredited by many governing authorities, and the University is repeatedly recognized as the leader in Caribbean medical education.

For more information on St. George’s University, visit www.sgu.edu

As well as internationally-renowned courses in Economics, Business, Medicine, and Politics, the University of Warwick also offers a fully-funded scholarship degree in the area of Theatre and Performing Arts: Masters in International Performance Research.

This course provides the opportunity to study not only at the University of Warwick but also at another of Europe’s most distinguished universities, in Amsterdam, Helsinki or Belgrade.

To be considered for the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship, applications must be made by 4 January 2011.

For more information on the highly-renowned academics teaching on this area at Warwick, or the programme, please see www.warwick.ac.uk/go/maipr

Where do you want to go? What do you want to be? Whatever your aspirations, Wayne State University can help you answer those questions.

Wayne State holds the Carnegie Foundation’s highest designation for research activity – a distinction shared by only 3.6 percent of U.S. universities. And that means the men and women who teach at Wayne State are creating the knowledge that will change the world of tomorrow.

Whether your field is alternative energy technology, the life sciences, fine arts or any of our hundreds of other excellent undergraduate, graduate and professional programs, you’ll find that discovery begins at Wayne State. Come be a part of it.

Visit our open house on October 16, 2010.

Learn more at www.wayne.edu

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Study In Canada • Study Abroad

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

Tecnologico de Monterrey (Monterrey) Founded in 1943, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Monterrey Campus is recognized today as one of the best universities in Latin America with an important international position, being the main, largest and most recognized campus in the ITESM system and it’s accredited by several national and international organizations, such as: SACS, EQUIS, AACSB and ABET. We have more than 200 regular university courses taught in English, so there’s no need to know the Spanish language in order to come and study abroad with us!

Do not hesitate to contact us for more information or visit our website at www.studyinmexico.com.mx

The University of Melbourne in Melbourne, Australia has introduced landmark educational reforms known collectively as the Melbourne Model.

In moving to the new model, the University is responding to the challenges of today’s changing environment as well as aligning itself with the best of European and Asian practices and North American traditions.

Under the Melbourne Model, students studying a new generation undergraduate degree complete a major in a particular discipline together with breadth subjects. These breadth subjects along with the opportunity for internships, study abroad and participation in industry projects, offer students the chance to explore a range of interests.

World Education Group Certified by the American International Recruitment Council World Education Group is one of the first student recruitment agencies to earn certification from the American International Recruitment Council (AIRC).

WEgroup, a founding agency member of AIRC, is the only US agency so certified. The certification process serves as an external quality review of agencies which recruit international students to accredited U.S. institutions.

“WEgroup is an interesting and innovative company which is performing efficiently and productively,” wrote David Arredondo, Director of International Student Services at Lorain County Community College, who served as WEgroup’s external reviewer during the certification process.

“They bring new ideas... to international education.” www.worldeducationgroup.com

Learn more about the ‘Melbourne Experience’ by visiting us at www.futurestudents.unimelb.edu.au or email us at mcha@unimelb.edu.au.

The University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine is an affordable investment in your future as a medical professional. Tuition for USESOM is highly competitively priced, and the university is approved for Canadian financing in most provinces. Additionally, living expenses on the island of Sint Eustatius are lower than that of most other Caribbean schools and significantly less expensive than North American based institutions.

• Pre-Medical Program offers the opportunity to begin your medical education immediately out of high school

• 20-month Basic Sciences Program based on U.S. medical school curriculum

• Optional 5th Term in the United States • Smaller class sizes offer higher teacher-student ratios • Unique educational philosophy • The beautiful and relaxed nature of the island of Sint Eustatius provides

students with a quiet learning environment and a variety of recreational activities • Approved for Canadian financing • Testing Center is designed to simulate the USMLE testing environment for all Basic Science exams to better prepare students for USMLE Step 1 • Excellent opportunities for Clinical Rotations and Residency Placements

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

Kyrewood

Equestrian Centre It is springtime in New Zealand, the grass is growing, and the Kyrewood horses are getting their summer coats. There have been two new arrivals to swell the horse numbers in the past few weeks, and both will be fit and ready to cater for the 2011 students when they start their courses on 1st February. The new horses are both thoroughbreds who are enjoying the change of vocation from racing to sporthorse. Come and ride them, or some of our more seasoned schoolmasters who are the backbone of our great team of showjumpers and dressage horses. www.kyrewood.co.nz.

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STUDENT TESTIMONIALS

STUDENT TESTIMONIALS Bangor Law School at Bangor University is extremely warm and welcoming to international students. The interaction between the academic staff, the administrative staff and the employees at the university has made me feel as though I belong here.

As the course is only 2 years, plus the extended breaks, I find that the time away from home seems very balanced for a family person studying a law degree.

Having the opportunity to study the law of England, Wales and the European Union is attractive to Canadian students as our system is also derived from this common-law.

I will certainly miss all the wonderful people I have met at Bangor when I leave. Coming from Canada to North Wales has been a great adventure!

Dan Seward, Vernon, British Columbia 2-year LLB Law, Bangor Law School

After getting the opportunity to work at a Norwegian company for a few years I decided it was time to add a business qualification onto my previous experience. I´d become aware of the positive reputation that BI Norwegian School of Management has both nationally and internationally and was thrilled to discover they offered a Bachelor of Business administration (BBA) completely in English. Since starting this course, I have never looked back and I am more than satisfied with the programme structure, not to mention the international vibe!

Mark Hartland, Great Britain, BBA

Academics: The academics on campus are very personalized; the classes that I took helped me develop my critical thinking in practical situations, as well as problem solving.

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The professors always make sure to address my questions and I never have any hesitation to approach my professors.

Campus Life: The campus is small; it is nice knowing that I do not need a car to get from one class to another. Daemen is a closeknit community and I feel safe living on campus. Also, I have been involved with student organizations such as the One World Alliance and have worked on campus.

Munish Sharma from Baguio City, Philippines Major: Doctor of Physical Therapy, Daemen College

At High Point University, it is easy to get involved on campus. I met so many people through participating on the Division I Cross Country Team, serving as a University Ambassador and being a member of the Biology Club. With everyone living on campus it truly feels like a community!

High Point University also lives up to the ‘caring people’ aspect of what college is supposed to be about, whether it’s other students, my professors, or the administration – whenever I need anything, I know I have the resources here to help me!

Shauna March, Biology major from Nova Scotia

Looking back at the last two years, I could not have been happier with my decision to study law at La Trobe University.

It has been one of the best educational and experiential decisions of my life. Even though I chose to fast track through my degree, I was still able to undertake various hands-on legal opportunities and employment with a leading commercial litigation law firm.

The teaching staff at La Trobe and recruitment advisor for law students are exceptionally resourceful and invaluable.

In the two years of my studies I have had the privilege to travel to Shanghai, and undertake an elective through a university sponsored grant; I worked

alongside a Magistrate and observed their role in Chambers. I was able to take on a placement at the Victoria Legal Aid and obtain an elective through the clinical education program.

Elle Haj Imani, Bachelor of Law La Trobe University

My study program is offered at Griffith University at a really high academic level and will help me significantly towards my future goals.

Griffith University provides all students with mentors, tutors, and career days.

The best part of my program is that we receive guidance from an advisor ahead of time regarding which electives and core subjects to take.

I love the weather here, the people are friendly and I would tell all potential students that this is a once in a lifetime experience where the quality of the courses is incredible. I now intend to do my whole degree at Griffith University.

Karen Papier, Canada Bachelor of Public Health - Nutrition, Griffith University

Initially, I was drawn to St. George’s University because of its outstanding USMLE pass rates. After more research, I found that this university in Grenada has been responsible for putting nearly 10,000 physicians into practice worldwide.

More importantly, I wanted to attend a university with a well-structured education system and extensive student support offerings. St. George’s helps students manage the overwhelming amount of information they have to retain in a very short period of time, and pushes every student to learn at his or her maximum potential.

Although the coursework is challenging, the experience is next to none – socially and academically.

Corina Tatar, Montreal 2nd Year Med Student, St George’s University Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

Rebecca Willems, Ontario

I have a BScH and MSc from Queen’s University in Life Science and Pharmacology. I have an interest in Intellectual Property and decided to study further because I wasn’t interested in a career in laboratory science. Combining my science background with a law degree was an opportunity to problem solve daily outside the lab environment.

I chose Monash because it was a reputable university and I liked the flexibility of having trimesters instead of semesters. This will allow me to complete my degree more quickly and start working as a legal practitioner sooner.

Ms Danae Benjamin, LLM (Juris Doctor) Monash University Current International Student - Canada

I participated in the Mayan Route Summer Program 2010. It was a memorable experience whereby I got the chance to see the Mayans’ rich cultural sites and at the same time being immersed to live in a foreign land. The interesting thing of being in another country is that you get to feel what it’s like to actually live there and I certainly had a first-hand experience by travelling around and visit different places of attraction. The bottom line is that the Mayan Route trip is definitely an excellent option to study abroad!

Davin Wangsa Tecnologico de Monterrey (Monterrey) Exchange Student

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

It has been a great privilege for me to be part of the very first medical school class at UL. We have been instructed by experts in their fields and the faculty have taken a personal interest in each one of us and have gone out of their way to see all their students succeed and excel. Our class has become a tight knit community and we have forged friendships which will only grow and develop over the coming years.

I chose the Swiss Education Group because I wanted to study hospitality at the highest level of professionalism.

At SEG the professors are your coaches and the students are your friends. SEG has been a place for me to explore who I am and opened my eyes to different points of view.

Eric Landymore, Vancouver, Canada University of Limerick

My decision to attend Wayne State University is one of the best I’ve ever made. I am majoring in Psychology and a member of Kappa Delta sorority. As a resident of Ontario I’m able to take advantage of WSU’s “Good Neighbor” policy - a program that allows Ontario residents to receive in-state tuition rates. I love hanging out with my friends in Midtown Detroit, trying out new restaurants and hanging out in the residence halls. I’m so happy I decided to attend Wayne State.

My experience at University of Melbourne has been incredible. I chose UoM due to its strong international reputation. The work load is intense, but what I find most astounding is the amazing peers, top notch staff, and fabulous professors. Not only are they some of the world’s top researchers in their respected fields, but they are also truly compassionate about their students’ education and welfare. I enjoy living in Melbourne and find it very student friendly. After 1.5 years of living here, I’ve only scratched the surface of all the things to do in this fabulous city!

Stef Lim, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine University of Melbourne

Studying Philosophy at Warwick has been a wonderful enriching experience. It’s been truly incredible for me to learn from the faculty here, who are internationally recognised for their excellence, and also a pleasure to meet and discuss philosophical ideas with other students of similar interests.

In addition, there are many resources available at Warwick to support wellbalanced living: from extra-curricular language training, to sports facilities, to practice-rooms at the Music Centre.

Warwick is an exceptional learning environment that I cannot recommend enough.

STUDENT TESTIMONIALS

To say my time spent at Kyrewood Equestrian Centre was life changing would be an understatement!

The Sporthorse Certificate truly encompasses all aspects of horsemanship, and having the opportunity to ride up to three horses per day really refines your skills as a well-rounded rider able to cope with a wide variety of horses. I emerged from the course a confident and capable horse person with a broad education of horse care. From bits and bridles, to paddock management and weeds, to lateral movements and jumping - you cover it all at Kyrewood!

Mr Filippos, Student, Swiss Education Group

Claire Ihuwan – Windsor, Ontario

When medical students come to Statia we all have one common goal – to one day become excellent physicians.

Being a student at the University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine ensures that you will not only have help and support of the faculty, but from other students as well to make sure you succeed. When it comes to life outside of the classroom, Statia is peaceful and safe and in a short time the culture becomes a part of your own. Statia may be a small island, but it has more to offer than you could ever imagine.

Jaclyn Guliano

Ryan Priddle, MA Continental Philosophy University of Warwick

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IRELAND

The Emerald Isle

Education in

Ireland

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Study In Canada • Study Abroad

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

Awarding Bodies

Ireland’s economic success since the 1980’s has been based primarily on such inbound investment, particularly from large American corporations.

The main factors influencing this investment were seen as Ireland having a young, English-speaking, educated population; large European market; pro-business fiscal policies; and an attractive location for expatriate staff.

Irish universities offer internationallyrecognized qualifications.

Some institutions, including a growing number of institutes of technology, are authorized to grant their own awards.

Institutes of technology and colleges are subjected to quality assurance reviews by The Higher Education Authority and Training Awards Council (HETAC). HETAC makes awards and monitors standards of higher education up to the doctorate level.

Universities

Bachelors: these are higher education qualifications that lead to degrees

such as BA (Arts), BSc (Science), or MB (Bachelor of Medicine). They are usually three-year programs combining lectures, tutorials, and practical demonstrations. The grading system is as follows:

IRELAND

For over 40 years, the Irish government has invested heavily in Education as a key element in its economic development. Having educated Irish people at home was seen as a key factor in attracting multinational investment into Ireland: Educated Irish who emigrated to major economic centres were not only well-positioned to get rewarding jobs, but also often became key influencers in promoting Ireland as an excellent destination for incoming corporate investment.

First Upper Second (2:1) Lower Second (2:2) Third Pass Fail Masters: these can be research-based or taught, or a combination of both.

They take a minimum of 12 months to complete and grades are awarded as distinction, merit, pass, and fail.

As Irish policy-makers developed economic growth plans for the 21st century, they focused on education and research as key areas for investment. They also realised the need to develop new links and networks with the growing economies in Asia.

Under the National Development Programme (NDP) [2007-13], the Irish government has committed € 6 billion (CAD$ 10 billion) to develop research capacity in key areas – and much of that funding is allocated to education institutions. This plan envisages the recruitment of top-notch international researchers into Irish programmes, as well as the doubling of PhD output of the higher education colleges.

Higher Education System The higher education system in Ireland is also referred to as tertiary or thirdlevel education. This encompasses qualifications offered by universities, institutes of technology, and colleges.

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

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The qualification system in Ireland fits into the National Framework of Qualifications. This is a system of ten levels incorporationg all the recognized Irish awards available at each level. Students can use the system to compare the qualifications on offer at their level and choose the best route of educaion. For more information on this, visit www.nfq.ie/ nfq/en.

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© Rognar - Dreamstime.com

IRELAND Doctorate: qualifications offer you the opportunity to complete an original piece of research, usually in the form of a dissertation. This takes a minimum of three years and requires full time work at it and a lot of independent study. Doctorates are usually awarded as a pass or fail, with distinction in rate cases.

Institutes of Technology There are 14 institutes of technology in the Republic of Ireland. They offer a variety of programs that are validated by the individual institutions and quality-assured by HETAC. The qualifications offered include bachelor’s degrees, honours bachelor’s degrees, and post-graduate awards.

The programs on offer have a more practical and technological focus and usually include subjects such as Science, Engineering, Technology, and Business, with some offering programs in areas such as Art and Design, Humanities and Languages, Healthcare, and Tourism.

Colleges of Education There are several colleges of education dedicated to the training 14

Study In Canada • Study Abroad

of primary school teachers. These offer three-year degrees leading to a Bachelor’s of Eduation. Teachers at the secondary school level tend to study at university degree, followed by a Higher Diploma in Education Why Ireland?

• Ireland is recognized as an international location for highquality scientific research • Ireland is an English-speaking country, yet continues to celebrate its rich linguistic heritage with its own distinctive language – Gaelic – officially recognized as an EU language • Irish people are renowned for their friendliness and hospitality, which greatly contributes to the ease with which overseas students adapt to student life in Ireland

• Ireland is a highly-developed democracy with a modern economy that is particularly strong in software development, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing and international services • The number of international students visiting Ireland is increasing each year, as students from all over the world are taking advantage of the high standard of education in Ireland, the unique cultural experience, and the outstanding friendliness of the Irish people.

Sources: http://www.i-studentadvisor. com/studying-in-ireland.html, http://www. studyinbritain.com/ireland/

• With 40% of the population being under the age of 25, Ireland is one of the more exciting places in the world to be a student • Ireland is beautiful: Its unspoilt landscape provides a rich environment for the many outdoor leisure pursuits for which it is famous, like watersports, hill walking, rocking climbing and caving Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

PROFILE

University of Limerick

Get your Medical Degree at the University of Limerick Ireland

School/Institution Name: University of Limerick Institution Type: University Public / Private: Public Special Features of the Location: The University is situated on a superb riverside campus of over 131 hectares with the River Shannon as a unifying focal point.

The University of Limerick (UL) is situated on a superb riverside campus of over 300 acres with the River Shannon as a unifying focal point.

Outstanding recreational, cultural and sporting facilities further enhance this exceptional learning environment.

BM BS Bachelor of Medicine Bachelor of Surgery (Graduate Entry) The University of Limerick’s BM BS Graduate Medical Programme (GMP) is open to graduates from any discipline.

It has a highly innovative curriculum which offers students the opportunity to complete undergraduate medical training in four years in an environment specifically designed for graduate students. During your four years of study, you will be taught all of the basic medical and clinical sciences necessary to form the basis for postgraduate training and for a career in one or another branch of medicine.

Programme of Study The academic year runs from September to June. Years 1 & 2 are taught on campus and consist of 33 teaching weeks per year. Years 3 & 4 consist of clinical training, where students rotate through the major clinical disciplines in affiliated hospitals and General Practices.

The curriculum has three main modules or domains: • Knowledge of Health & Illness • Clinical and Anatomical Skills • Professional Competencies

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Programs Offered:

Entry Requirements for Canadian Students Candidates must hold a minimum 2.1 (second class honours, grade one) result in their first honours bachelor degree. Candidates will also need to provide a competitive MCAT or GAMSAT score. Applicants must also attend for interview as part of the selection process.

Application Process for Canadian Students Canadian students are requested to apply for this programme through the Atlantic Bridge Programme. The Atlantic Bridge Programme is a cultural diversity program through which the Irish medical, dental, and veterinary schools admit North American students.

Email: info@atlanticbridge.com Web: www.atlanticbridge.com UL Course Contact Details: UL Graduate Medical School, Room E1025, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland Email: medicalschool@ul.ie • Phone: +353-61-233740/+353-61-233756 • Fax: +353- 61 233778 Web address: www.ul.ie/medicalschool

Undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD programmes in the four faculties of the University; Kemmy Business School, Faculty of Arts Humanities and Social Sciences, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences and the Faculty of Science and Engineering Total Number of Students: 10,500 Total Number of International Students: approximately 1,000 Accommodation Options: Five on-campus villages to choose from with over 2,300 individual rooms Student Life: UL has a great location near Limerick City, and Ireland’s most beautiful campus, on the banks of the River Shannon, 30 minutes drive from Shannon International Airport. The campus is in both County Limerick (South Bank) and County Clare (North Bank). Outstanding recreational, cultural and sporting facilities further enhance this exceptional learning and working environment.

Contact Details: University of Limerick Limerick, Ireland Tel: +353-61-202414 Fax: +353-61-213062 Email: int.ed@ul.ie

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INFORMATION

Studying Medicine in the

Caribbean The lure of the beauty of the Caribbean isn’t just for those seeking fun and relaxation. With over 60 medical schools listed in the International Medical Education Directory (IMED), the Caribbean has increasingly become the preferred destination for students seeking alternatives to their domestic medical schools.

The 25 most popular Caribbean medical schools are located on islands varying in size, demographic, and environment. Official languages of a majority of the region’s islands/ countries are English, French, Spanish, Dutch, and Papiamento. Well known tourist havens such as Aruba, Antigua, the Cayman Islands, St. Kitts and Nevis, share a common bond with smaller islands including Sint Maarten, Sint Eustatius, and Saba, in that each island is host to at least one medical school.

Aside from the tropical weather and sandy beaches, another commonality amongst medical schools located in the Caribbean is that most offer a curriculum based on that of U.S. medical schools with the goal of assisting students in passing the multiple components of the United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE), and similarly the Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination (MCCQE), on their way to becoming successful physicians.

prerequisite training, or possibly as the starting point of their post-high school education. The remainder of the medical education process, including clinical training and residency, is often completed in the U.S. and Canada, although some universities offer opportunities further abroad.

Students considering applying to a Caribbean medical school should first thoroughly research each institution to be sure it is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and listed in IMED – a joint collaboration by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) and the Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER) – which is a “resource for accurate and up-to-date information about international medical schools that are recognized by the appropriate government agency in the countries where the medical schools are located.” (www.faimer.org) Studying medicine in the Caribbean has been an experience shared by thousands of practicing physicians and offers a unique opportunity to students looking to study abroad.

Contributed by: Steve Grantowitz University of Sint Eustatius, School of Medicine www.eustatiusmed.edu

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Students of a four-year Caribbean medical school program generally attend classes on-island for the first 16 months (four Terms) of the basic sciences portion of their education.

The fifth Term of the basic sciences is either continued on-island or at a location in the U.S. depending on the institution. Additionally, some programs include two years of pre-medical education, usually on-island, prior to the start of the basic sciences. This may be a viable option for students without necessary

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PROFILE

St. George’s University School/Institution Name: St. George’s University

Institution Type: University

Public / Private: Private

Special Features of the Location: St. George’s University main campus rests on the southwestern corner of Grenada overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Over 60 65 buildings were constructed in a major expansion over the last 10 years and students enjoy all the amenities of modern campus life in the middle of a tropical paradise. Over 2,000 students live on campus and others live in the surrounding neighborhoods, which are served by the Universityprovided free bus transportation.

Programs Offered: MD, DVM, PhD, MPH, MBA, MSc, MD/MPH, MD/MSc, MD/MBA, DVM/MPH, DVM/MBA, DVM/MSc, BS, BS/ DVM, BS/MD. MD candidates may begin Basic Sciences study in Grenada or spend the first year in a twin academic program – the Keith B. Taylor Global Scholars program, at the University of Northumbia, in the United Kingdom.

Total Number of Students: 6,052

Total Number of International Students: Over 40% of the St. George’s student body hails from counties other than the United States

Accommodation Options: Almost 1,500 students are housed on campus in a vareity of dormitory configurations – from single rooms to multi-party suites. Other students, and those with families, live off campus in University-approved private accommodations. The University provides free bus transportation to the surrounding neighborhoods.

Student Life: As an international university located in a tropical environment, St. George’s offers student a diverse variety of non-academic activities. Students participate in outdoor activities in their free time such as snorkeling, swimming, and scuba diving and many sports activities, from basketball to soccer to field hockey to runs. Over 50 student organizations draw students to different areas of student life: cultural, religious, social, academic, professional, and community service.

Contact Details: To speak with enrolment counselors about individual programs via email use SGUEnrolment@sgu.edu. Or call toll free - 1(800) 899-6337. Website: www.sgu. edu. Information on the University is available at www. sgu.edu, and through YouTube, Facebook and Twitter at StGeorgesU.

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St. George’s University, in Grenada, West Indies, has contributed nearly 10,000 physicians, veterinarians, scientists, and public health and business professionals to the global workforce since its founding in 1977.

The faculty and students at this international medical education center hail from over 140 countries, and the University boasts a strong network of affiliations with institutions in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and Ireland.

Innovative Academic Programs St. George’s offers many academic options in medicine, veterinary medicine, public health, business and the arts and sciences. Its programs have been validated by numerous accreditations and approvals from international institutions and governing bodies.

Students may pursue MD or DVM degrees or dual degrees, including the Doctor of Medicine/Master of Science or Doctor of Veterinary Medicine/Master of Public Health. St. George’s 11-yearold MPH program is accredited by the U.S. Council on Education for Public Health.

Independent MBA degrees or dual MD/MBA or DVM/MBA degrees are also offered. An MBA in Multi-Sector Health Management trains students to manage organizations and community enterprises, especially those crossing sectors in international settings. The MBA in International Business prepares students for an international career, enhancing their managerial skills and helping them to gain international experience and competency.

Extraordinary Caribbean Campus St. George’s $250+ million campus is a bustling university city on a peninsula overlooking the sea. It is technologically advanced with more than 60 state-ofthe-art buildings, including a library, anatomy labs, dormitories, several restaurants, lecture halls, and a research institute.

Research Possibilities The University-affiliated Windward Islands Research and Education Foundation maintains a research institute on campus and collaborates with prestigious North American, European, Caribbean, and African institutions. Among other studies,

the Foundation draws internationally recognized scholars and regional scientists to research various communicable and noncommunicable diseases and health issues affecting the developing regions of the world.

A Dedication to Student Success St. George’s University’s dedicated Department of Educational Services teaches students how to learn, and teachers how to teach. This unusual and highly effective faculty is the largest on campus, and is an important component of our student and graduates successes. Close to 100% of the University’s students, and many of the professors in all schools, avail themselves of the support offered through its innovative programs, including time management, notetaking skills, and utilizing technology effectively in teaching and learning.

Information on the University is available at www.sgu.edu, and through YouTube, Facebook and Twitter at StGeorgesU.

The Gold Standard in International Medical Education Since 1977, St. George’s has drawn students and faculty from 140 countries to its innovative program in medicine. In the years since, the University broadened its mission to offer undergraduate and graduate degrees in veterinary medicine, public health, science, business, and liberal studies. These programs are marked by a strong network of affiliations with educational institutions worldwide, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Ireland. They have been validated by numerous accreditations and approvals from international institutions and governing bodies.

Student support services is an important part of the St. George’s academic culture.

The University’s Department of Educational Services teaches students how to learn and teachers how to teach. This unusual and highly effective faculty is the largest on campus, and is an important component of our student and graduates successes.

Close to 98% of the University’s students and many of the professors in all schools avail themselves of the support offered through a variety of innovative programs, including time management, note-taking skills, and utilizing technology effectively in teaching and learning.

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suit up. train. to think beyond.

Do you want to go big, push limits, change medicine? With programs on the forefront of global change and faculty and students who have come from over 140 countries, SGU has contributed nearly 11,000 physicians to the global healthcare workforce. Join them. Challenge yourself to Think Beyond.

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5 www.sgu.edu/future-students

1 (800) 899-6337 ext. 9 280

SGUEnrolment@sgu.edu

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Eland and Mandela Bridge in Braamfontein © www.redmonkey.co.za

SOUTH AFRICA

Johannesburg The heartbeat of Africa 20

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The Constitutional Court, South Africa’s highest court, is located in Johannesburg. The city occupies a rich place in the country’s history and houses several history museums.

While the Apartheid Museum and the Hector Pieterson Museum chronicle the rise and fall of Apartheid, the Origins Centre takes visitors on an extraordinary journey discovering the origins of humankind in Africa. The Cradle of Humankind, located some 25 km northwest of the city, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Soweto, South Africa’s largest township, visitors can find the famous Vilakazi Street, the only street in the world to have been the address for two Nobel Prize winners: Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

Constitutional Court on Constitutional Hill © www.redmonkey.co.za

Johannesburg has several art museums, galleries and theatres and hosts a number of cultural festivals throughout the year. The city also boasts world-class shopping and dining

SOUTH AFRICA Soccer City © Jon Borz - Dreamstime.com

Johannesburg, affectionately also known as Jo’burg, Jozi, Egoli and City of Gold, is the largest and most populous city in South Africa. It is the provincial capital of Gauteng, the wealthiest province in South Africa and the fourth largest economy in Sub-Saharan Africa, and the financial, economic and cultural centre of South Africa. Johannesburg is one of the 40 largest metropolitan areas in the world and Africa’s only officially designated global city. It has its roots in gold and diamond mining due to its location on the mineral-rich Witwatersrand range of hills.

venues. Serviced by Africa’s largest and busiest airport, Johannesburg provides a travel gateway to neighbouring countries such as Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, Zimbabwe and the rest of the Continent. The Kruger National Park, Africa’s largest wildlife reserve, is only a few hours’ drive away.

in Johannesburg offers you the opportunity of becoming part of, and enriched by, an urban institution in its interaction with what is undoubtedly one of the world’s most diverse and vibrant cities.

Contributed by: Mrs Samia CHASI (MA, MPhil) Manager International Partnerships University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg www.wits.ac.za

During the recent FIFA 2010 World Cup held in South Africa, Johannesburg hosted both the opening and closing ceremonies and witnessed World Cup history being written in two POSTGRADUATE STUDY newly renovated stadiums: Ellis WHY WITS? Park and Soccer UNIVERSITY Wits University, with five Faculties City. Other SOUTH AFRICA and 34 Schools, has a reputation popular sports in for being research-focused, publicly the city include engaged and committed to advancing the public good. cricket and rugby Wits graduates set the benchmark for success. They are successful and and, with five distinguished leaders who make their mark locally and globally. golf courses, Johannesburg Wits takes pride in and celebrates diversity of people and ideas. This provides the cosmopolitan and globally networked environment conducive to is also a golfer’s building an excellent institution of higher learning. paradise. The City offers sports The University offers an international platform for intellectual debate and critical thinking across disciplines. Politicians, intellectuals, authors, enthusiasts a researchers and scientists all have their say at Wits. range of facilities for indoor and Wits is at the forefront of a changing society. It is committed to generating outdoor activities. knowledge that will ultimately advance the public good.

Wits. The intellectual hub of Africa

WITS

Johannesburg has a welldeveloped higher education system with two public universities, the University of Johannesburg and the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg (Wits). Studying

Wits has a reputation for academic and research excellence. Boasting 4 Nobel laureates, the institution is the first choice for those seeking to generate advanced knowledge, regardless of their socio-economic or cultural backgrounds.

Wits acts locally and performs globally. It is embedded internationally as an institution of sound academic and research standing and is committed to fostering intellectual communities and to strengthening strategic partnerships at home, on the continent and beyond.

For further information, please contact Ms Samia Chasi (Manager International Partnerships: Wits International Office) on +27 11 717 1052 or email Samia.Chasi@wits.ac.za

Challenge your intellect • Add a multidisciplinary dimension to your career • Re-skill for 21st Century careers • Enhance your employability

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

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www.wits.ac.za

Wits gives you the edge

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INFORMATION

Stages pour étudiants aux Etats-Unis avec le Programme Amity Intern Teacher Amity Institute – organisme à but non lucratif, fondé il y a 50 ans, agréé pour délivrer des visas J-1 pour les échanges culturels internationaux.

Le programme Intern vous propose de passer une année scolaire ou un semestre en tant qu’assistants de français dans des écoles primaires et secondaires en plus de 30 états des Etats-Unis.

Le programme vise à la fois à faire découvrir la langue et la culture françaises aux élèves américains, et la vie et la culture de la communauté nord Américaine aux assistants. Il offre une alternative aux études traditionnelles à l’étranger et est particulièrement bien adapté à ceux qui souhaitent acquérir une expérience de l’enseignement.

L’assistant travaille sous la supervision d’un professeur pour 32 heures par semaine. L’assistant est nourri et logé dans une famille américaine et reçoit une petite somme d’argent de poche chaque mois.

Les conditions requises: • avoir au minimum 20 ans • être inscrit à une faculté universitaire ou être titulaire depuis 12 mois maximum d’un diplôme de l’enseignement supérieur • avoir un projet professionnel dans l’enseignement • avoir un bon niveau d’anglais • avoir le désir de partager la culture et la langue française avec les élèves américains La date limite de candidature est 31 décembre 2010 pour l’année scolaire Août 2011 – Juin 2012.

Pour poser la candidature visitez: www.amity.org. > “Intern Program” > “Apply now”. Envoyez la candidature à mail@ amity.org

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Gain work experience in Europe!

Preparatory course in Vancouver & guaranteed job placement in Europe

School is just about over; your graduation certificate is in your pocket, the world is truly your oyster – so why not go for it?

Interested in learning something about another culture, in meeting new friends in other countries and in earning enough money to finance your stay abroad?

earnings are around 1300 CAN$ per month, which will cover food and accommodation, taxes and social security and still allow you to save for your trips to Europe after you have finished working.

What’s more, when you come back to Canada, we can help you claim back all the taxes you paid in the UK.

The European Hotel Academy (EHA) has come up with the right program for you! The EHA is a German company that has been running qualifying courses for jobs in the hotel business, combined with hotel job placements in the UK, Channel Islands and Ireland, since 2005.

Working hours are about 40 hours per week, with two days off in every seven. Many of our partner hotels are in country settings where you will quickly make new friends and start to feel at home in Europe. You will not only be working with people from the UK, but also people from Poland, Romania, Czech Republic, Portugal, France, Germany, Holland and many other countries. Several of our partner hotels belong to the group of Small Leading Hotels of the World or to other premier chains like Hilton, Ramada or Intercontinental, while others might be British national hotel chains like Exclusive Hotels.

In the summer of 2010, the EHA and its Canadian affiliate, CET Vancouver, opened a hotel and language school in Vancouver where Canadians and other nationalities are prepared for hotel and restaurant jobs in Europe. The two or three-week courses include cultural training, hands-on restaurant service training and a computer course in Micros Fidelio, a software program used in hotel reception work. The EHA will secure placement for the candidates in 4 and 5-star hotels across the UK. Your job placement is guaranteed, providing you take part actively in our course. We are committed to your success prior, during and after the course and are always on-hand to help you with any questions or issues that you have. EHA staff members regularly visit work locations of our former students to ensure the continued success of the program.

In your new job, you will be working in restaurant service, bar service or at the front desk. Of course, other jobs are also available if you are interested. During the normal minimum stay of 6 months, you will stay in staff accommodations and you can provide food for yourself or eat in the staff lounge. Normal

If you have any questions, contact us by e-mail: info@europeanhotelacademy.de

As a Canadian citizen, you will need to apply for a Youth Mobility Program visa. All you need for this is your Canadian passport.

Further information can be found on the UK Border Agency website: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk.

This visa entitles you to a work permit for up to 24 months in the UK, during which time you can enter and leave the UK as often as you wish. Please find more information, application forms and a handbook on www.europeanhotelacademy.com.

As an alternative to our European hotel program you could also apply for a Work & Travel USA position. Take a look at detailed information on this program on our website: www.cetusa.org/public/offers/work-and-travel-program.

The European Hotel Academy in cooperation with CET Vancouver Language school. #100 – 200 Nelson Street Vancouver, BC V6B 2E2, Canada tel: +1 604 669 2930 fax: +1 604 669 2929

INSPIRATION

Making a Difference

One Penny at a Time What happens when you combine one idealistic mountaineer and a school full of passionate and believing elementary school students?

When the idealistic mountaineer is Nobel Peace Prize nominee Greg Mortenson, and the students are the dedicated kids at Westside Elementary School in River Falls, WI, you get Pennies for Peace!

Pennies for Peace is Greg Mortenson’s award-winning youth service-learning program designed to broaden youth’s cultural horizons and teach them about their capacities as philanthropists – one penny at a time.

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Greg Mortenson went to Pakistan in 1993 to climb K2, the second highest mountain in the world. While mountaineering was his passion,

Greg’s purpose in climbing K2 was much deeper. His sister Christa had died the year before and he wanted put a memento in her memory on the summit of the mountain to honour her.

He spent 78 days on the mountain but never made it to the summit. His sense of failure followed him off the mountain and down the massive Baltoro glacier as he made his way home. Over time he found himself in the most impoverished village he had ever been in: Korphe.

As poor as the people were they welcomed him with a hospitality he had never known before. While he spent time in Korphe

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

he realized that there was no school – that the children went to school in an apricot orchard, sitting on the ground, doing their lessons with sticks in the dirt!

In an instant he understood that he could honor his sister more, by helping build a school for Korphe’s children, than he ever could have if he had placed a memento of hers on the summit of K2. He returned home fueled by his fervent desire to help the children of Korphe and set about raising the money to build the school: He wrote 580 letters to famous people asking for their help, but no one stepped forward to help build the school.

Six weeks later Jerene called and told Greg, “You really made an impression on the kids at Westside. They couldn’t believe there is a place where children don’t have a school, and they want to help, so they used the only thing they have access to – pennies. And they raised 62,345 pennies! $623.45!” At the time it was the largest donation that Greg had received, and it wasn’t adults who had helped, it was students helping other students, half a world away!

This inspired Greg, as he realized youth were open to learning about the world and were committed to helping, and based on that experience Greg founded Pennies for Peace.

Greg also deeply understood the value of education in the developing world. Research has shown that if you educate a girl in the developing world to a 5th grade level or higher, you do more for the sustainability of

Since those early days, Pennies for Peace has grown into an awardwinning youth service-learning program, which tens of thousands of students around the world participate in every year. The Pennies for Peace program has grown from a basic fundraising program to a program that now encompasses a K-12 curriculum with rubrics, assessment tools and activity reproduceables; videos; books; pictures; a Getting Started & Implementation Guide; a map; fact sheets; a book & movie reference list; and much, more. University students often take the template of the Pennies for Peace program and adapt it for their university setting.

They often organize lectures and panel discussions using resources on their own campus. More can be found at www.penniesforpeace.org.

Youth around the world use Pennies for Peace to learn about their capacities as global change agents, and learn that they can improve the condition of the world around them, no matter how old they are, no matter what needs to be done. All they need

© David Oliver Relin

Dejected, Greg went home to visit his mom, Jerene. Jerene was the principal of Westside Elementary School in River Falls, Wisconsin. She consoled her son and encouraged him to continue, and she also asked him to talk to the students at Westside Elementary because she knew it was an opportunity for them to learn more about the wider world. Greg spent two days going to the classrooms and talking to the students at Westside.

At the end of those two days a boy named Jeffery came to Greg and said “I have a piggy bank at home and I am going to help you build that school.”

Greg smiled and didn’t think about it anymore.

INSPIRATION

developmental solutions than anything else. It’s called the Girl Effect and it’s powerful! Once a girl or boy has an education they can think critically and they have power over their lives.

Education helps them understand the danger of extremist thinking, and the value of building their community in a peaceful and empowered way.

is belief in themselves and a deep understanding of how to empower change in a situation.

Oh, and a few pennies help as well – they can move mountains!

Contributed by: Christiane Leitinger www.penniesforpeace.org

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INFORMATION

TOP 100 U N I V E R S I T I E S

University Name

Country

HARVARD University University of CAMBRIDGE YALE University UCL (University College London)

2009 Ranking

2009 Overall Score

United States

1

100

United Kingdom

2

99,59

United States

3

99,08

United Kingdom

4

98,98

University of OXFORD

United Kingdom

5

97,75

IMPERIAL College London

United Kingdom

5

97,75

University of CHICAGO

United States

7

96,83

PRINCETON University

United States

8

96,63

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

United States

9

96,11

California Institute of Technology (CALTECH)

United States

10

95,91

COLUMBIA University

United States

11

95,6

University of PENNSYLVANIA

United States

12

94,17

JOHNS HOPKINS University

United States

13

94,07

DUKE University

United States

14

92,94

CORNELL University

United States

15

92,54

STANFORD University

United States

16

92,23

AUSTRALIAN National University

Australia

17

90,49

MCGILL University

Canada

18

90,39

United States

19

89,88

United Kingdom

20

89,26

Switzerland

20

89,26

Japan

22

88,85

United Kingdom

23

88,45

Hong Kong

24

87,53

Japan

25

87,12

The University of MANCHESTER

United Kingdom

26

85,69

CARNEGIE MELLON University

United States

27

85,58

École Normale Supérieure, PARIS

France

28

85,38

University of TORONTO

Canada

29

85,28

Singapore

30

84,25

BROWN University

United States

31

83,95

NORTHWESTERN University

United States

32

83,54

University of California Los Angeles (UCLA)

United States

32

83,54

United Kingdom

34

83,44

Hong Kong

35

83,33

France

36

83,13

The University of SYDNEY

Australia

36

83,13

The University of MELBOURNE

Australia

36

83,13

United States

39

82,72

University of BRITISH COLUMBIA

Canada

40

81,19

The University of QUEENSLAND

Australia

41

80,67

Switzerland

42

80,57

Trinity College Dublin

Ireland

43

80,06

OSAKA University

Japan

43

80,06

Australia

45

79,96

Hong Kong

46

79,55

Korea South

47

79,04

Australia

47

79,04

Netherlands

49

78,94

China

49

78,94

University of MICHIGAN University of EDINBURGH ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology) The University of TOKYO KING'S College London (KCL) University of HONG KONG KYOTO University

National University of Singapore (NUS)

University of BRISTOL The HONG KONG University of Science and Technology École Polytechnique

University of California BERKELEY (UCB)

Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de LAUSANNE

MONASH University The Chinese University of HONG KONG SEOUL National University The University of NEW SOUTH WALES University of AMSTERDAM TSINGHUA University

Source: http://www.topuniversities.com/world-university-rankings Check website for full details and explanations on ranking procedures and classifications 26

Study In Canada • Study Abroad

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

You will be looking for many different aspects when searching for a school: location, program offerings, curricula, cost – and reputation as well. Keep in mind that the reputation is based on many different criteria so you need to find out for yourself what is important

University Name

to you. As a reference tool, have a look at a reliable ranking system and research how the ranks are calculated.

Below you will find the top 100 universities as compiled

by QS Quacquarelli Symonds Limited (QS Network). To see how the ranking is determined and defined, check their sites directly. This is one ranking list that you can already use to check out the top universities around the world.

Country

2009 Ranking

2009 Overall Score

University of COPENHAGEN

Denmark

51

78,83

NEW YORK University (NYU)

United States

52

78,43

PEKING University

China

52

78,43

BOSTON University

United States

54

77,81

Germany

55

76,28

Japan

55

76,28

Germany

57

76,18

United Kingdom

58

75,66

Canada

59

75,36

LEIDEN University

Netherlands

60

75,26

The University of AUCKLAND

New Zealand

61

74,74

University of Wisconsin-Madison

United States

61

74,74

Denmark

63

74,54

United States

63

74,54

Belgium

65

74,23

University of BIRMINGHAM

United Kingdom

66

73,93

London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

United Kingdom

67

73,72

Sweden

67

73,72

KAIST - Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology

Korea South

69

72,6

UTRECHT University

Netherlands

70

72,39

Technische Universität MÜNCHEN TOKYO Institute of Technology Ruprecht-Karls-Universität HEIDELBERG The University of WARWICK University of ALBERTA

AARHUS University University of ILLINOIS at Urbana-Champaign Katholieke Universiteit LEUVEN

LUND University

University of YORK

United Kingdom

70

72,39

University of GENEVA

Switzerland

72

72,29

Nanyang Technological University (NTU)

Singapore

73

71,98

United States

73

71,98

Sweden

75

71,88

University of TEXAS at Austin

United States

76

71,47

University of CALIFORNIA San Diego (UCSD)

United States

76

71,47

University of NORTH CAROLINA Chapel Hill

United States

78

71,27

United Kingdom

79

71,17

University of WASHINGTON

United States

80

71,06

The University of ADELAIDE

Australia

81

70,76

The University of SHEFFIELD

United Kingdom

82

70,55

Netherlands

83

70,45

Australia

84

70,25

DARTMOUTH College

United States

85

70,14

GEORGIA Institute of Technology

United States

86

70,04

PURDUE University

United States

87

69,84

University of ST ANDREWS

United Kingdom

87

69,84

University College DUBLIN

Ireland

89

69,73

United States

90

69,63

United Kingdom

91

69,43

University of Zurich

Switzerland

92

69,22

NAGOYA University

Japan

92

69,22

Germany

94

69,02

Taiwan

95

68,92

United Kingdom

95

68,92

Japan

97

68,61

Germany

98

68,4

United Kingdom

99

68,3

United States

100

68,1

WASHINGTON University in St. Louis UPPSALA University

University of GLASGOW

DELFT University of Technology The University of WESTERN AUSTRALIA

EMORY University The University of NOTTINGHAM

Freie Universität BERLIN NATIONAL TAIWAN University (NTU) University of SOUTHAMPTON TOHOKU University Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München University of LEEDS RICE University

INFORMATION

Searching for a university that delivers everything you are expecting is a daunting task. But don’t despair – there are many tools available to help you in your search.

Source: http://www.topuniversities.com/world-university-rankings Check website for full details and explanations on ranking procedures and classifications Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

Study In Canada • Study Abroad

27

RMIT University is Australia’s largest dual-sector educational institution, with a reputation for producing some of Australia’s most employable graduates.

RMIT offers you the most relevant and globally recognised programs and courses due to its strong connection to industry and partnerships with communities throughout the world.

Close to 470 programs across TAFE, undergraduate, and postgraduate levels are regularly evaluated by an industry-advisory board and are delivered by renowned leaders.

Study areas include: » Architecture » Art and design » Advertising and communication » Aviation and aerospace » Biotechnology » Education » Environmental studies » Engineering » Health and medical science » IT and computer science » Management and logistics » Media, film and TV » Property and project management » Science

Go plAces

Melbourne, Australia

Located in the heart of MeLbourne,

RMIT UnIveRsITy pRovIdes edUcATIon To oveR 71 000 sTUdenTs woRldwIde And Is The chosen desTInATIon of 11 000 InTeRnATIonAl sTUdenTs. Why RMIT? You’re driven to get more than just a foot in the door— RMIT provides you with the opportunity to: » Gain practical experience with local or international firms before you graduate » Be connected to industry leaders from the likes of BMW, KPMG and Calvin Klein » Attain internationally-recognised qualifications from one of the most internationalised universities in the world*.

RMIT has campuses in Melbourne and in Vietnam and delivers programs through partner institutions worldwide » Expand your horizons with a study tour to one of 26 different countries » Study at an institution that impels independent thinking and innovation and is the top entrepreneurial university in Australia** » Live at the heart of a vibrant city and the Sports Capital of the World*** Student Mobility Programs » Study Abroad and Exchange If you are looking to add an international flavour to your degree, then consider a Study Abroad or Exchange program. These programs provide you with a unique opportunity to complete part of your studies in Australia—combining one or two semesters of study at RMIT University with your studies at home.

RMIT has exchange partnerships with various Canadian Institutions including Concordia University, Ryerson University, University of Alberta and University of Waterloo. www.rmit.edu.au/globalpassport/educationabroad » RMIT International Industry Experience and Research Program (RIIERP) As part of your RMIT program, RIIERP offers you the opportunity to gain international work experience with the likes of Airbus, the Siemens Group, Volkswagen, Rolls-Royce Group, and Robert Bosch. The benefits of this are huge—not only does the international work experience put you steps ahead of your competition but you have the chance to get yourself noticed by the world’s most renowned firms. www.rmit.edu.au/globalpassport/intworkplacement * 2009 Times Higher Education Supplement Survey ** 2009 GSEA annual Top Entrepreneurial Universities List *** 2009 SportBusiness Sport Management Awards Photo of Ronan Buick Master of Applied Science (Geospatial Science) CRICOS Provider Code: 00122A 11280 0810

RMIT Work Integrated Learning (WIL) RMIT has a reputation for producing some of the most employable graduates and this is largely due to its mantra of ‘Learning by doing’.

Over half of RMIT’s programs include some form of work experience from collaborative industry projects to work-placements and internships of up to a year.

Melbourne life Nothing compares to the buzz of a living city, and Melbourne knows how to live.

Melbourne’s urban charm is characterised by its maze of hidden laneways and arcades which conceal some of the city’s most eclectic cafés, bars and boutique art and fashion. All tastes are considered and almost everything in this city is celebrated with a festival. Comedy, fashion, food, art—even winter—gets its own week or month long celebrations! And when music festival season hits in Spring, it’s weekend after weekend of camp-outs and road-trips with the best live bands and dj’s.

For sport lovers—there’s no better place to be than the reigning Sports Capital of the World!

The best bit about it all? RMIT is right at the centre of the action.

> To learn more about the opportunities available to you, email RMIT on isu@rmit.edu.au.

www.rmit.edu.au/international

© Ron Sumners - Dreamstime.com

AUSTRALIA

Study in

Australia An Experience that

Lasts a Lifetime

About Australia

• • • •

A multicultural population of 22 million (1 in 4 Australians was born outside of the country) A land of diverse climates with spectacular scenery (with 10 per cent of the world’s biodiversity – many of its native plants, animals and birds exist nowhere else in the world) The world’s 13th largest economy and one of the most stable in light of the recent global financial crisis Canberra is the nation’s capital, with Sydney and Melbourne the largest cities respectively

Sources: www.australia.gov.au and www.dfat.gov.au

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Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

Australia’s education providers promote innovative, creative and independent thinking, delivering practical solutions for real-world problems. Students learn to work as part of a team, to communicate effectively with others from around the globe and to develop the practical skills and intellectual abilities that are required for global success. Students can be assured that they will receive a world-class education from experts: ten Australians have been awarded Nobel prizes – for medicine, science and literature1.

Australia is the third most popular destination of choice for Canadian students going abroad, after the United States and Britain, with over 4,700 Canadians studying in Australia on an annual basis. The diversity of courses available is extensive and because each of the education sectors is linked, students can progress their education pathway, moving easily between institutions.

Australia is also renowned for its golden beaches, stunning scenery and friendly people.

Student Support

research and business links that have mutual long-term benefits.

By investing billions of dollars each year, the Australian Government ensures that the country’s reputation for quality services, innovative research and strong international partnerships is maintained and strengthened.

Student welfare is of the highest priority for the Government, which is why it has introduced a number of policies that ensure that an Australian education experience is a positive and safe one.

All Australian education institutions that enrol international students must be registered with the Australian Government and meet high standards

Study Law at an Australian Law School with a difference The School of Law at La Trobe University offers an innovative, high quality education with a strong global and social justice perspective and a real emphasis on practical learning experiences.

Our School of Law offers: • Graduate Entry into the three-year Bachelor of Laws for Canadian students • Alternative Dispute Resolution • Unique clinical legal education programs • Institutional links with Duke University’s summer school programs in Hong Kong and Geneva • Competitive mooting • Scholarships – exclusive to Canadian students in 2011 For more information, or to meet a representative in Canada, please contact La Trobe International.

E international@latrobe.edu.au T (+61 3) 9627 4805 latrobe.edu.au/international

TANK 7614/1 CRICOS Provider 00115M

Australia is a welcoming environment for international students, and the Government appreciates the value that international students bring to its society, through developing cultural,

AUSTRALIA

Australia has a well-deserved reputation for providing top quality education services. These services range from prestigious universities, vocational education and training, to schools and English language training.

Last year, Australia received around 630,000 student enrolments from around 200 countries across these four sectors. Australia’s universities have extensive linkages with Canadian universities and colleges, offering structured internationalisation and articulation (credit transfer/recognition) opportunities.

AUSTRALIA of quality and ethical practice. These standards relate to curriculum, qualifications of teaching staff, facilities and specialist equipment. Students can therefore be confident that they will receive the quality of education that they pay for.

Rigorous steps are also taken by all education institutions to provide comprehensive student support.

Specialist services to help international students adjust to life and study in Australia and to achieve their goals include: • language tuition; • designated international student advisers; • on-arrival reception and orientation programs; and • health, counselling, accommodation and career and employment services.

The Education Service for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act holds education providers accountable for their services:

Canadian students in Australia

•

•

•

Canada was one of the Top-25 sources of international students for Australia in 2009 and the numbers of Canadian students in Australia have doubled over the past seven years Nearly three quarters of all Canadian students in Australia undertake higher education, either at the Bachelor or Masters level Canadian students undertake a wide array of fields of study in Australia such as teacher education, medical studies, rehabilitation therapies, legal studies and communication and media studies.

32

Study In Canada • Study Abroad

in the rare event of a college closure, tuition fees are protected.

provides skills that are transferable to any part of a student’s life.

About the Australian Education System

Australia’s VET system delivers industry-based qualifications that provide students with the skills identified as critical by employers. This training ensures students develop the knowledge and expertise they need to enter the workforce for the first time, re-train for a new job, re-enter the workforce, or upgrade their skills.

Schooling in Australia begins with a preparatory year followed by 12 years of primary and secondary education.

Attending school is compulsory until the age of 16 or completion of Year 10.

Students who continue their education through years 11 and 12, study towards a government-endorsed certificate that provides a pathway to further education in an Australian tertiary education institution.

There are two types of tertiary education programs in Australia: 1. those offered by universities and other public and private higher education providers; and 2. those offered by public and private training providers and institutions in the Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector.

There are 39 Australian universities2, based both in the major cities as well as regional centres. Several of these universities regularly appear in the various world rankings (for example, the Shanghai Jiao Tong University ranking and The Times Higher Education Supplement University Rankings).

Australian universities offer programs that lead to qualifications ranging from undergraduate bachelor degrees to postgraduate doctorates.

Many Australian institutions also offer foundation studies or bridging courses to help students meet the entry requirements for further study.

Completing study through an Australian university increases employability and

Many Australian institutions also offer English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS).

Starting Your Journey to Australia To start your journey to Australia, go to www.studyinaustralia.gov.au, the Australian Government’s website for international students. It has all the details on the courses available in Australia to international students. You can use its search facility to establish a personal profile or find particular institutions or courses that you are interested in.

The website also provides details and links to other government websites which will guide you through your student visa application and provide advice about living, learning and growing in Australia.

With over 300,000 unique visits each month, www.studyinaustralia.gov.au is the first place to start your journey to Australia.

Contributed by: Fareeda Chand Austrade, Canada 1. http://www.studyinaustralia.gov.au/Sia/ en/WhyAustralia/NobelPrizes.htm 2. http://www.australian-universities.com/ list/

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

• • • • • •

Choose your education sector: university, vocational education and training, school or English language training Select a course Apply for admission Apply for a visa

AUSTRALIA

Studying in Australia

Plan for your departure (finance, transport, accommodation, quarantine and customs) Arrival!

Source: www.studyinaustralia.gov.au

Where to go for more information

• The multi-lingual official Australian guide to studying in Australia: www.studyinaustralia.gov.au • A comprehensive study guide for international students, including advice on arriving in Australia, accommodation, public transport, money matters, health and wellbeing: studyinaustralia.gov.au/Sia/en/StudyGuide_pdf.pdf

• English language training: www.elicos.edu.au • Austrade, 175 Bloor Street East, Suite 1100, South Tower, Toronto, Ontario Canada M4W 3R8; email: fareeda.chand@austrade.gov.au

Study Health Science in Australia Qualify as a health professional in two years!

La Trobe University’s innovative professional entry programs enable graduates with degrees in other areas to pursue a Master’s degree and career move into an exciting and ever-changing sector.

Programs include: • Master of Physiotherapy Practice • Master of Occupational Therapy Practice • Master of Social Work • Master of Speech Pathology • Master of Health Information Management • Master of Clinical Prosthetics and Orthotics • Master of Podiatric Practice

E international@latrobe.edu.au T (+61 3) 9627 4805 latrobe.edu.au/international

TANK 7614/2 CRICOS Provider 00115M

For more information, or to meet a representative in Canada, please contact La Trobe International.

AUSTRALIA

Achieve Your Postgraduate Aspirations in a

City of Excellence

© Johnny Lye - Dreamstime.com

In today’s competitive environment, employers around the globe are looking for fresh talent and new recruits with a competitive edge. A postgraduate qualification from Western Australia can give you that edge and steer the success of your career.

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Study In Canada • Study Abroad

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

The skills you learn during your postgraduate studies and your training at a Western Australian centre of excellence will not only help shape your career, they’ll also benefit the communities where you choose to apply these skills.

Each year, Western Australia receives more than 55,000 international student enrolments, and over 5,000 of these belong to postgraduate programs.

With 130 research and 800 coursework programs to choose from, Perth offers extensive postgraduate opportunities to take your studies further.

These are just some of Western Australia’s centres of excellence representing different fields of research and training:

Whether it’s architecture, engineering, environmental studies, information technology, psychology or performing arts, the qualifications you receive in Western Australia will be recognised by employers and leading education institutions around the world.

PARTNERS IN EXCELLENCE Western Australia has a major focus on research and innovation and has achieved global recognition for its contributions in the fields of medicine and technology.

Developing ideas, discovering new ways of doing things and changing lives requires not only talented individuals, but strong partnerships as well.

Every Western Australian university has alliances with industry and other academic and research institutions in Australia and overseas, including many of the State’s centres of excellence.

Together they work on cutting-edge research projects relevant to current and future issues facing the local community, Australia and even the world.

Western Australia’s centres of excellence offer research programs, postgraduate studies, internships, training seminars and advanced facilities to students studying in their area of research.

Each centre plays an important role in its field on a global scale. The partnering universities working with the centres make a valuable contribution by helping recruit and train young, innovative thinkers eager to learn and to help make a difference.

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

The Centre of Excellence for Climate Change, Woodland and Forest Health researches the premature decline of some native Western Australian tree species in the context of climate change. The centre’s ultimate objective is to ensure healthy woodland and forest ecosystems for future generations. Its research is recognised around the world. Learn more at www.foresthealth.com.au The Interactive Television Research Institute studies the future of television. Its cutting-edge research focuses on how new media platforms affect viewers and shape the media industry. Some of its current research projects include exploring new advertising models and understanding the psychology of the interactive viewer. Learn more at www.itri.tv iVEC is Western Australia’s hub for advanced computing. Its research spans across a range of areas, including nanotechnology, radioastronomy, high energy physics, medical and mining training, medical research, mining and petroleum, architecture and construction, multimedia, and urban planning. In 2013, Western Australia will be home to the largest supercomputers in the world - the AU$80 million Pawsey Centre. Learn more at www.ivec.org The Marshall Centre for Infectious Diseases Research and Training carries out world class infectious diseases research and disease surveillance, develop new vaccines and diagnostic tools for certain bacteria and viruses, provide postgraduate and professional training, and educate the public about infectious diseases. Learn more at www.biomedchem.uwa.edu.au/ research/marshall-centre The Urban Design Centre of Western Australia researches important areas such as water shortages and the design implications of drought tolerant

approaches, sustainability and transitoriented development, eco-tourism and its impact on environmentally fragile areas, and other relevant topics.

The centre provides urban design education and offers students practical learning opportunities through its graduate program. Learn more at www.udcwa.org

AUSTRALIA

Perth, the capital city of Western Australia, is the ideal place for aspiring scientists and innovators. Through its five universities and hundreds of centres of excellence, the state combines a world class education system with innovative research.

The Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts gives its students the opportunity to realise their artistic ambitions through a wide range of internationally recognised performing arts courses. It has a reputation as Australia’s premier performing arts academy and its graduates are praised nationally and internationally. Areas of study include acting, broadcasting, costume, dance, design, music and sound, plus many others. Learn more at www.waapa.ecu.edu.au The Western Australian Marine Science Institution’s research areas include climate change, marine life, ocean geology, weather patterns, storms, large scale ocean movements, fishing, coral reefs, medical compounds, biodiversity and social issues. It provides educational opportunities and scholarships to postgraduate students. Learn more at www.wamsi.org.au The Western Australian Nanochemistry Research Institute provides expertise, equipment and facilities for nano-based research.

Its mission is to conduct world class research and development, commercialisation and training in nanochemistry. The outcomes of the research conducted here can be applied to various industries, including mining and resources, environment and health. Learn more at www.wanri.org.au The Western Australian School of Mines specialises in mining engineering, metallurgical engineering and extractive metallurgy, applied geology, spatial sciences and exploration geophysics. Its graduates have an almost 100% employment rate and some of the highest starting salaries of any other graduates in Australia. During their studies, students receive detailed insight into the operation of the mining industry and the practical skills necessary to succeed. Learn more at www.wasm.curtin.edu.au Study In Canada • Study Abroad

35

AUSTRALIA

OPPORTUNITY, DIVERSITY AND LIFESTYLE IN ONE PLACE Continually voted as one of the world’s top ten most liveable cities (The Economist, 2004-10), Perth’s lifestyle speaks for itself.

Perth has one of the highest standards of living in the world, but is more affordable than many other study destinations such as the United Kingdom and the United States (Mercer’s 2010 Cost of Living Survey).

It’s a welcoming, friendly city with great multicultural diversity. People of more than 200 different nationalities live and study here, speak over 170 languages and practice more than 100 religions.

Perth is well connected to major cities in Asia, Africa and Europe, and because of its time zone, it’s easy for students to keep in touch with friends and family back home.

Perth Education City is one of Western Australia’s official representatives for international education and is a reliable source for anyone wishing to find information on studying and living in Perth.

The academic year in Western Australia is divided into two semesters, although some courses are divided into three trimesters. It starts in late February and finishes at the end of November, followed by a summer break. This is the ideal time to apply your knowledge in a working environment as there are many internship opportunities available to students during the summer holidays.

Western Australia’s five universities, plus over 45 private and public schools, vocational education providers and English language colleges are members of Perth Education City. Of all the international students studying here, 97% are enrolled at one of these member institutions.

Graduate certificates and diplomas in Western Australia start at AU$9,000 per year; and masters and doctoral (PhD) courses start at AU$11,000 per year.

Contributed by: Kelli Patterson, Marketing Director Perth Education City www.pertheducationcity.com.au

READY TO TAKE YOUR STUDIES FURTHER? Search for your postgraduate program in Western Australia today at www.pertheducationcity.com.au

© Kaneos - Dreamstime.com

When you enrol in a postgraduate program in Western Australia, chances

are, you’ll be studying in the city of Perth and not in another town or a remote area of the State. All main university campuses are located within 25km of the city centre, so they’re easy to reach by train or bus.

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Study In Canada • Study Abroad

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

Study in Perth ...the truly authentic Australian experience

Wide choice of Bachelor, PhD and Masters Degrees State-of-the-art research and training facilities Receive a 40% discount on all public transport Job opportunities for working holiday makers Ideal for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts Clean, safe and secure environment More affordable than the UK and USA (Mercer’s Cost of Living Survey, 2010)

Learn more about our world class universities:

www.international.curtin.edu.au

www.ecu.edu.au

www.uwa.edu.au

CRICOS Code 00301J

CRICOS Code 00279B

CRICOS Code 00126G

Search for your course today at...

www.pertheducationcity.com.au/ca

Situated in one of the world’s most liveable cities*, the University of Melbourne is the only Australian university that offers a truly international curriculum aligned with the very best global higher education models. The Melbourne Model is an innovative approach to learning and teaching, and the rigour of this curriculum structure is underpinned by the Melbourne Experience, through which students can access unprecedented academic enrichment opportunities.

To deliver this objective, the University maintains a richly diverse staff and student community, and offers an international, culturally sensitive curriculum which values other cultures, languages and ways of understanding.

These experiences are not confined to campus but extend to opportunities to study and learn in institutions around the world, or to volunteer in activities with communities in local, national and international settings.

As an internationally engaged institution, the University meets global challenges with intelligence and ingenuity, and respect for cultural difference and common humanity. It draws on the diversity of its staff and student body, strong relationships with overseas partner institutions, and an alumni network of talented graduates spread across the globe.

For more information, visit: www.mobility.unimelb.edu.au/incoming

CRICOS: 00116K

*Melbourne - voted the world’s third most liveable city by the London-based Economist Intelligence Unit in 2009.

www.mobility.unimelb.edu.au/incoming

The University of Melbourne Experience.

Global Education + Global Networks = Global Opportunities

n

Ranked 47th in the world in the 2009 Times Higher Education - QS World University Rankings

n

A comprehensive teaching and research university offering over 900 degree programs across nine faculties

n

One of the most international university campuses in the world with over 135 nationalities represented in our student cohort A MEMBER OF

Group of Eight AUSTRALIA'S LEADING UNIVERSITIES

www.unsw.edu.au UNSW International Office, Australia: Tel. +61 2 9385 6996 n internationaloffice@unsw.edu.au

The Network for International Higher Education

CRICOS PROVIDER CODE 00098G

The University of New South Wales (UNSW) is Australia’s first international university

L’AUSTRALIE

Étudier en

© Ron Chapple Studios - Dreamstime.com

Australie l’opportunité d’une vie

L’Australie en bref

• • • •

Une population multiculturelle de 22 millions d’habitants (1 Australien sur 4 est natif d’un autre pays) Des climats variés avec des paysages spectaculaires (L’Australie possède 10% de la biodiversité mondiale - la plupart de ses plantes indigènes, ses animaux et ses oiseaux n’existent nulle part ailleurs) La 13e puissance économique mondiale et l’une des plus stables, vis-àvis de la récente crise financière Canberra est la capitale nationale, avec Sydney et Melbourne, qui sont les plus grandes

Sources: www.australia.gov.au et www.dfat.gov.au

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Study In Canada • Study Abroad

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

Avec plus de 4700 étudiants canadiens annuellement, l’Australie est la troisième destination préférée des Canadiens qui choisissent d’étudier à l’étranger, après les États-Unis et l’Angleterre. Ayant une panoplie de cours disponibles et des programmes d’étude inter-reliés, les étudiants ont la possibilité de parfaire leur cheminement scolaire et de changer facilement d’établissement.

L’Australie offre un environnement accueillant pour les étudiants étrangers. Le gouvernement apprécie grandement leur présence puisqu’elle favorise le développement culturel, l’avancement des recherches et facilite l’émergence des liens commerciaux offrant des bénéfices réciproques à long terme.

Grâce à ses investissements de plusieurs milliards de dollars, le gouvernement australien s’assure de maintenir et de solidifier sa réputation à travers la qualité de ses services académiques, ses recherches innovatrices et son partenariat international prospère.

Les enseignants australiens prônent la pensée indépendante, innovatrice et créative en plus d’offrir des solutions pratiques à des problèmes concrets.

Les étudiants apprennent ainsi à travailler en équipe, à communiquer de façon efficace avec des membres de diverses cultures et développent des aptitudes pratiques et des habiletés intellectuelles permettant l’obtention d’une réussite collective. Les étudiants sont assurés d’obtenir une éducation de qualité mondiale : dix Australiens ont été honorés par un prix Nobel – en médecine, en science et en littérature1 L’Australie est aussi réputée pour ses plages dorées, ses scènes à couper le souffle et pour ses habitants chaleureux.

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

Encadrement étudiant L’aide financière aux étudiants fait partie des priorités du gouvernement.

Ainsi, la mise en place de directives assure une expérience académique australienne positive et sécuritaire.

Les institutions australiennes d’enseignement qui admettent des étudiants internationaux doivent être enregistrées auprès du gouvernement australien. De plus, elles doivent offrir une éducation de qualité supérieure et doivent endosser des pratiques éthiques. Ces normes sont au cœur du cursus académique, des qualifications du personnel enseignant, des locaux et des équipements spécialisés.

Les étudiants peuvent ainsi être assurés qu’ils recevront la qualité d’enseignement pour laquelle ils paient.

Des étapes rigoureuses sont mises en place par chacune des institutions d’enseignement afin d’offrir un encadrement adapté aux besoins des étudiants internationaux. Pour ce faire, des professionnels sont mis à leur disposition afin de les aider à s’adapter à la vie et aux études en Australie, ainsi qu’à atteindre leurs buts : • bourse linguistique; • conseiller assigné pour les étudiants internationaux; • programme d’accueil et d’orientation; et • services de santé, de suivi psychologique, d’hébergement et de recherche d’emploi.

La loi à l’égard du service d’éducation pour les étudiants étrangers (ESOS - Education Service for Overseas Students) tient responsable l’établissement d’enseignement pour ses services offerts : lors d’un cas exceptionnel de fermeture d’un collège, les frais de scolarité sont protégés.

Le système d’éducation australien en bref L’éducation australienne débute avec une année préparatoire, suivie de 12 années d’enseignement primaire et secondaire. L’assiduité à l’école est obligatoire jusqu’à l’âge de 16 ans ou jusqu’à la réussite de la 10e année. Les étudiants poursuivant leurs études au-delà de la 11e et la 12e année suivent un certificat

approuvé par le gouvernement qui donne accès à des études supérieures dans une institution d’enseignement australienne.

L’AUSTRALIE

L’Australie a une réputation bien établie grâce à la qualité supérieure de son enseignement. En effet, on y trouve des universités prestigieuses, des établissements d’enseignement, des écoles de métiers et des instituts linguistiques de langue anglaise. L’an dernier, l’Australie a accepté quelque 630 000 étudiants provenant de 200 pays dans l’un ou l’autre de ses quatre secteurs d’enseignement. Les universités australiennes ont un lien privilégié avec les universités et les collèges canadiens, permettant de créditer des cours complétés dans un cadre international.

Il existe deux types de programme d’études supérieures en Australie : 1. ceux offerts par les universités et autres établissements d’enseignement d’études supérieures publics ou privés; et 2. ceux offerts par des écoles de métiers publiques ou privées et des établissements vocationnels et formation professionnelle (VET - Vocational Education and Training).

On dénombre 39 universités australiennes2 localisées dans des grandes villes et dans des centres régionaux. Plusieurs de ces universités se classent régulièrement parmi les meilleurs à l’échelle mondiale (par exemple, le classement académique mondial de l’université Jiao-Tong à Shanghai ou le palmarès des universités du Times Higher Education Supplement).

Les universités australiennes offrent des programmes qui conduisent vers des qualifications allant du cours pré-universitaire jusqu’aux post-doctorats. Plusieurs institutions australiennes offrent aussi des formations et des cours d’appoint pour aider les élèves à répondre aux préalables pour des études ultérieures. Compléter des études dans une université australienne augmente les perspectives d’emploi et permet à l’étudiant de développer des

Étudiants canadiens en Australie

•

•

•

En 2009, le Canada s’est classé parmi l’un des 25 pays ayant le plus participé au programme d’études international d’Australie et le nombre d’étudiants canadiens a doublé au cours des sept dernières années.

Près du trois quart des étudiants canadiens en Australie ont suivi des études supérieures, soit au Baccalauréat ou à la maîtrise.

Les étudiants canadiens entreprennent leurs études dans diverses disciplines en Australie telles que : l’enseignement, le domaine médical, les thérapies de réhabilitation, le droit et les études en communication et médias.

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L’AUSTRALIE

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compétences transférables dans tous les domaines de sa vie.

Le système vocationnel de formation professionnelle australien VET (Vocational Education and Training) permet le développement des qualifications particulières à l’industrie, donnant à l’étudiant des compétences recherchées par les employeurs.

Cette formation lui permet d’acquérir des connaissances et une expertise dont il aura besoin pour faire sa première entrée sur le marché du travail, faire un changement de carrière, réintégrer le marché du travail ou améliorer ses compétences. De nombreuses institutions australiennes offrent également des cours intensifs d’anglais pour les étudiants étrangers (ELICOS).

Débuter votre séjour en Australie Pour débuter votre séjour, commencez par visiter le site internet du gouvernement australien pour les étudiants internationaux: www. studyinaustralia.gov.au . Vous trouverez tous les détails sur les cours

accessibles aux étudiants étrangers.

Créez votre profil personnel en utilisant le moteur de recherche, puis identifiez les établissements d’enseignement ou les cours particuliers correspondant à votre champ d’intérêt.

Ce site internet offre également des informations supplémentaires et des liens vers d’autres sites gouvernementaux, de la marche à suivre pour faire une demande de visa étudiant, en passant par des conseils sur comment vivre, apprendre et croître en Australie.

Avec plus de 300 000 visiteurs uniques à chaque mois, le site www. studyinaustralia.gov.au est sans aucun doute, le meilleur endroit pour débuter votre aventure australienne.

Contribué par: Fareeda Chand Austrade, Canada 1. http://www.studyinaustralia.gov.au/Sia/ en/WhyAustralia/NobelPrizes.htm 2. http://www.australian-universities.com/ list/

Étudier en Australie

•

• • • •

•

Choisissez votre secteur d’éducation : étude universitaire, établissements vocationnels de formation professionnelle, institut linguistique ou formation classique Sélectionnez vos cours Soumettez votre demande d’admission Faites votre demande de visa étudiant Préparez votre départ (finance, transport, hébergement, quarantaine et douanes) Soyez les bienvenus en Australie!

Source: www.studyinaustralia.gov.au

Où aller pour trouver plus d’information

• Le guide d’étude officiel multi-langue pour étudier en Australie : www.studyinaustralia.gov.au • Le guide d’étude complet pour les étudiants internationaux, comprenant des conseils pour l’arrivée en

Australie, le logement, les transports publics, les questions à l’égard de l’argent, de la santé et du bien-être. http://www.studyinaustralia.gov.au/Sia/en/StudyGuide_pdf.pdf

• L’institut linguistique : • Austrade, 175 Bloor Street East, suite 1100, South Tower, Toronto, Ontario Canada M4W 3R8; courriel: fareeda.chand@austrade.gov.au

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Study with one of the world’s top 50* Universities

A range of professional programs for Canadian students are available at Monash University in Melbourne

About Monash Established in Melbourne in 1958, Monash is Australia’s most progressive and internationalised university. Through collaborative research, student exchange programs and an ever-growing Alumni network, Monash has links with people, organisations and industry throughout Asia, Europe, the Americas, Africa and the Middle East.

Ranked among the top 50 universities in the world in the Times Higher Education rankings, and a member of the prestigious Group of Eight, Monash is a young, modern and dynamic institution, committed to quality education and research.

Degrees offered Canadian students continue to return to Monash to study and graduate with professional qualifications that help to develop their careers. Popular study areas include: Communications Programs focus on the challenges posed by the emergence of digital media, globalisation and increasing levels of cross-cultural exchange. The last decade has been one of unprecedented change in communications and media content, forms, technology and policy with wide-ranging implications for business, politics, public administration and everyday life. The program in communications and media studies examines these developments from an historical, political and theoretical perspective.

Finance Programs present materials from an applied perspective, providing opportunities for students to examine real world finance issues through an applied theoretical framework. This includes an opportunity to put theory learned into practice by participating in units held in the Accounting and Finance Simulated Teaching and Research Laboratory (STAR Lab). The system integrates financial data and back-office reconciliation of transactions bringing together market information, development of strategies, communication and profitability.

Education Monash education is dedicated to the notion of learning across the lifespan, recognising that education is relevant for everyone across all facets of life. Graduates can pursue careers in early childhood, primary and secondary teaching, adult learning, sport and outdoor recreation, as well as a range of Masters and higher degree by research programs (Masters and PhD).

Law The Monash JD is a graduate law degree designed to teach the knowledge and skills required to practise law. This innovative degree recognises the needs of graduates who wish to study law, providing the transferable skills and knowledge only a law degree from one of Australia’s leading universities can provide. The Monash JD offers: • Convenient CBD location in the Monash Law Chambers • Small classes, interactive learning environment • Highest quality teaching by legal academics and practitioners • Scope to undertake electives from our extensive masters program Nursing and Medicine Nursing programs aim to develop graduate nurses who are expected to be committed to the promotion, maintenance and restoration of health and to the prevention of disease. It is anticipated that these first level practitioners will be skilled in the delivery of holistic health care and be able to apply an extensive body of knowledge from the relevant disciplines in a range of practice settings.

The Monash MBBS is a five-year undergraduate degree. It is an interdisciplinary course, combining biomedical sciences and clinical skills training. The course is thematic and places emphasis on clinical communication skills, with clinical contact visits to medical practices, community care facilities and hospitals commencing in the first year. Students are also required to spend time in rural areas as part of a health care team. There are 60 places for international students per year.

Pharmacy Programs produce graduates with comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the enabling sciences, applied pharmaceutical sciences, clinical science and pharmacy practice and the professional skills and generic attributes which underpin the profession of pharmacy. A degree in Pharmacy may lead to careers in many different areas of practice including community pharmacy, hospital pharmacy, consultant pharmacy and the pharmaceutical industry.

For full details please contact Jaime Jobson at jaime.jobson@monash.edu www.monash.edu *THES Ranking 2009

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AUSTRALIA

Becoming doctors Down Under: Canadian Students Travel to Australia for Medical Training

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AUSTRALIA

Barbara Bradshaw is in her bedroom, looking into an opened suitcase sitting on top of her bed. She walks across the room and carries over an arm full of medical books, placing them into the suitcase. She leaves the room and returns with a stethoscope, and it too goes inside the luggage.

Once she finishes up packing, Bradshaw hugs her husband, friends and family in Edmonton goodbye, and then boards a plane.

To Australia. For four years.

Pursuing her lifelong dream to become a doctor, Bradshaw has enrolled in a Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery program in Queensland – and she’s not alone. Bradshaw, like hundreds of other Canadians each year, has taken a different route and decided to earn a medical degree abroad as in Canada, the number of applications to medical schools far outreaches the amount of spots available, creating a tough entry field for applicants.

In Ontario alone year before last, more than 5,600 candidates applied for the 857 spots available, according to the Ontario Application University Centre.

More than 1,800 candidates applied for the 256 vacant seats at the University of British Columbia, while at the University of Alberta, 1,149 applicants vied for one of the 142 available spots.

So with world-respected schools located across the country, Australia has become a Canadian haven for those who haven’t been able to break through the competitive Canadian medical school market, including Bradshaw.

“I was on my third year of attempting admission to Canadian medical schools,” Bradshaw explains. “Despite competitive experience, grades, MCAT, and interview ratings, I could not seem to secure a seat. I received interviews within Alberta, but missed the cut-off for acceptance once by only 0.3 per cent.”

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Bradshaw then did some research into applying to Australian medical schools and realized she could pursue her career goals and travel at the same time. “Australia is a place I had always wanted to experience,” she says. “I never imagined I’d be living here!”

The Parallels Australia’s balmy beaches and Canada’s frigid icebergs stereotypically define these polaropposite climates, however, the medical education systems in place within the two British Commonwealth countries draw a close parallel.

Students enrolled in a Canadian medical school program will study for four years to receive a Doctor of Medicine, followed by a residency. It’s a slightly different process in Australia, where graduate-entry students receive a Bachelor of Medicine/ Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree in four years, followed by a one-totwo-year internship followed by a specialist residency. Currently there are 19 Australian universities that offer medical school programs, seven of which accept international students.

Labeling Canada and Australia as long-lost twins who grew up apart, Cecile McGuire, International Manager of the School of Medicine at UQ, says the education system similarities are what draw Canadians to study Down Under. “I think when Canadian students come here, they quickly become a part of the medical student cohort and after a while, you can’t

differentiate between the two students until they open their mouths to speak,” says McGuire, who is a Canadian herself.

Bradshaw agrees. “There is minimal culture shock and no language barrier, the people are truly wonderful, and the country itself is astonishing,” she says.

The Trip Back Home Prior to accepting a letter of offer to an Australian medical school, applicants have one particular question in mind: Can they return to Canada to practice medicine?

This is where the Canadian Resident Matching Service (CaRMS) comes into play. This non-profit organization provides an electronic application service for entry into postgraduate medical training throughout Canada.

CaRMS provides a way for applicants, both Canadian and foreign-trained, to decide where to apply for residency.

In order to receive accreditation as a licensed doctor, a residency is required. Any graduate of a medical school outside of Canada or the United States is considered an International Medical Graduate, even if they are originally from Canada. To apply to CaRMS for a residency placement, they need to first pass the Medical Council of Canadian Evaluating Exam.

If they pass, they will then be placed in a separate, competitive pool for a residency match.

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AUSTRALIA

According to CaRMS Executive Director/CEO Sandra Banner, the problems faced by Canadians studying in Australia are universal to all medical students facing career decisions and practice plans. “There are limited opportunities to train internationally-trained physicians, and Canadians studying abroad are part of this group,” says Banner.

shortages. “Many provincial governments are reviewing its processes to ensure there is no built-in bias that prevents Canadians studying abroad from being considered for positions available to internationallytrained physicians,” she explains, adding the number of residency matches has increased over the past year.

There is a vast difference between the number of applicants and the number of residency positions available. For the 2007-2008 match, more than 1,400 International Medical Graduates applied for the 400 available positions.

Banner offers advice to those Canadian students studying medicine abroad who, one day, wish to return.

“My advice is to think seriously of the identified needs we have in Canada,” she says. “We have a critical shortage of family physicians and generalists,” she says. “If the student’s career goals meet our human resource needs, there is more opportunity to train in Canada.”

In terms of providing insight to students wishing to pursue a career in medicine, Bradshaw offers advice she herself followed. “Don’t take no for an answer,” she says. “If you really want to get there, there are ways to make it happen.”

Contributed by: Cathy McNally, Communications Manager, OzTREKK Educational Services. www.oztrekk.com, cathy@oztrekk.com.

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With a doctor shortage occurring across Canada, Banner says there is recognition in many parts of Canada as to the role these students can play in meeting Canada’s physician

Bradshaw says she’s interested in palliative care or rural medicine, but she’s not sure about where she plans to practice medicine come graduation in 2012. “I can easily see myself staying in the Australian system or returning back to Canada,” she says.

“The options are still quite wide at this point.”

Areas of study include: Accounting, Banking and Finance Advertising and Design Architecture Aviation Biotechnology Business and International Relations Dentistry and Oral Health Education (Primary and Secondary) Engineering Environmental Science and Ecotourism Film, Television and Photography Forensic Science Information Technology and Multimedia Journalism Law, Criminology and Criminal Justice Music and Music Technology Nursing and Public Health Pharmacy Physiotherapy and Exercise Science Psychology Tourism and Hotel Management Visual and Creative Arts 46

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Ranked in the top 4% of universities worldwide . . .

www.griffith.edu.au/international

(HES-QS Times World Ranking)

CRICOS CODE 00233E

ITALY

Italy Embraces Foreign Students

An Eduitalia

Welcome Eduitalia is an Association of Schools and Universities that offers courses to foreign students.

The Eduitalia member Schools and Universities offer a variety of courses including: Language and Culture, International Business, Law, Economy, Communications, Art, Sculpture, Photography, Painting, Design, Fashion, Jewelry, Dance, Cinema, Music, Opera, Theatre, Soccer, Culinary, and much more.

These courses are available in the most fascinating and beautiful cities in regions throughout Italy, extending from gorgeous seaside coastlines to the inland centres of art and fashion. Many of these courses are also taught in English as well as in Italian, so there are many options.

Eduitalia not only guarantees international students a wide selection of courses, but also assists them with bureaucratic issues. In fact, Eduitalia can also help to speed up the legal procedures for students arriving in Italy. Eduitalia helps students in preparing and submitting Permits to Stay, Declarations of Presence, as well as helping to obtain temporary tax codes “Codice Fiscale”.

To see the listing of current course offerings, as well as all the services you can expect from Eduitalia when choosing to study in Italy, please see our website www.eduitalia.org

REPRESENTING EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS THROUGHOUT ITALY OFFERING COURSES FOR FOREIGN STUDENTS

Italy...a unique experience Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

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CANADA

Canada’s Universities An Overview

There are more than 90 universities in Canada, all of which offer unique settings and experiences. What they have in common is a dedication to high-quality teaching and research and to providing opportunities that enhance your learning, your career, and your life.

all levels of education, including universities. Instead, membership in the AUCC, coupled with the university’s provincial government charter, is generally deemed the equivalent to accreditation.

Canada offers a wealth of higher education options and life-enriching opportunities at its universities and university degree-level colleges. These institutions are diverse – varying in size and programs – and they’re located across the country, with at least one in every province.

Each university has a style all its own.

You can study at a large, researchintensive campus in an urban centre such as Montréal, Toronto or Vancouver, or you can enroll at a small liberal arts institution with a focus on undergraduate education, such as Mount Allison in Nova Scotia or Trent University in Ontario, where most of the students live in residence.

Some universities specialize in areas such as business, engineering or arts, while others offer a wide range of undergraduate, graduate and professional programs.

Academic Programs Universities offer programs that range from fine art, biology and commerce to astronomy, engineering and medicine.

Currently, there are more than 10,000 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, as well as professional degree programs and certificates offered in Canada. Regardless of the program, Canadian degrees are globally-recognized and considered equivalent to those from other Commonwealth universities and the United States.

Canada has no federal ministry of education or formal national accreditation system. The provinces and territories are responsible for 48

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University Size and Character

Language and Enrolment Options Canada has English-language and French-language institutions and a few universities, such as University of Ottawa, offer instruction in both official languages. Many universities offer fulltime and part-time enrolment options as well as opportunities to participate in cooperative education, distance learning, continuing education and student exchange or study abroad programs.

Services and Programs for Students Canadian universities also provide support and opportunities for their students through a wide range of services and resources. They include: • First-year student programs (orientation week, study skills workshops, counselling); • Academic and campus services (bookstore, career placement centre, academic advisers); • Financial assistance (entrance scholarships and bursaries); • Athletics (recreational, interuniversity teams, fitness centres); • Student exchange programs (study abroad for part of your degree).

Students also have access to career, personal or academic counsellors and can get help with medical concerns or resolving housing issues.

Many universities also have services for students with specific needs, such as single parents; students with physical, sensory or learning disabilities; Aboriginal students; parttime students; gays and lesbians; mature students; and students of diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

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Universities as Part of Your Community Our universities play a vital part in their local communities, offering concerts and plays, daycare centres, sports and fitness facilities, lectures, museums, oncampus radio stations and art galleries.

Visit a university – either in person or online at www.aucc.ca/can_uni/our_ universities/index_e.html – to see for yourself how varied and enriching their offerings can be for you.

Your Career – a Key Reason for Attending a Canadian University No matter what you study, or where, attending a Canadian university helps you prepare for a rewarding career.

For Canadians, higher education is considered the ticket to future success because a university education translates into new skills, better prospects and higher salaries. To illustrate: • The labour market increasingly requires highly-educated individuals and rewards them accordingly. Over their lifetime, university graduates on average earn $1 million more than do those without a postsecondary education.

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• Between 1990 and 2006, the number of jobs requiring a university education doubled from 1.9 million to 3.8 million.

Now, and even more in the future, a postsecondary education – a university degree, a college diploma or some combination of the two – will help you get a great job. University also prepares you for the challenges you will face throughout your life. Going to university will help you learn how to solve problems, think critically and creatively, present your ideas persuasively, work in teams, and make effective decisions – all attributes that are in high demand by today’s top employers.

A comprehensive Directory of Canadian Universities is available from the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada. It contains detailed information about courses available at all universities, scholarship tips and contacts for internships and cooperative education opportunities.

Please visit the AUCC website, www.aucc.ca/DCU, to order one your copy at just 49.95.

Here are some helpful online resources: www.aucc.ca (for a list of all 90 university members and links to their websites as well as for online resources and free publications available to prospective students) www.canlearn.ca (CanLearn Interactive offers practical advice and selfassessment tools to guide university decision-making process) www.cicic.ca/postsec/indexe.stm (the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials site can help assess educational credentials by referring students to appropriate bodies) Contributed by: Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada. www.aucc.ca

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WALES

Wales Higher Education Record numbers of international students are enrolling to study higher education at universities throughout Wales. For the sixth successive year figures of full-time, non-EU students have increased, and there are currently 11,374 international students are studying in Wales. The percentage increase of over 19% is the highest increase in the last six years. Since 2005/06 the number of international students in Wales has increased by 73%.

A further 400 international students are on part-time courses in Wales and over 1,000 students are taking a distance learning course with a Welsh university.

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Wales recruits from over 120 countries with many students from China, India, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Hong Kong, Qatar, Libya and the US along with a large contingent of students from Canada.

Offering 12 higher education institutions, at 9 locations throughout Wales it offers the chance to be part of a unique and vibrant culture steeped in 3,000 years of history. Wales offers captivating and cosmopolitan cities, small market towns, universities by the sea, universities on the edge of Snowdonia National Park and universities surrounded by castles.

Wales offers a number of the top research specialisations in the country

including an award winning Film school, the leading Civil Engineering department, the leading Optometry & Vision Sciences department, the leading Architecture school, two of the top rated Psychology schools, one of the leading International Politics departments, one of the top Materials Technology departments, three of the top Theology and Religious Studies schools and a world renowned Institute of Biological and Environmental Research.

Also based in Wales are the national Music and Drama conservatoire of Wales, the leading “new university”, a Government Charter Mark holding university, one of the largest and most progressive library schools in Britain,

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A wealth of collaborative research projects have recently been launched in Wales including The Wales Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience which combines the expertise and resources of Aberystwyth University, Bangor University and Swansea University. The Screen Academy of Wales merges the expertise of University of Glamorgan, University of Wales Newport, Cardiff University, Swansea Metropolitan University and Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. Other collaborative research centres include The Wales Institute for Social and Economic Research Data and Methods (WISERD), The Wales Institute of Mathematical and Computational Sciences (WIMCS), The Low Carbon Research Institute (LCRI) and The Research Institute of Visual Computing (RIVIC).

In the last few months Cardiff University launched three new multidisciplinary research institutes; the Sustainable Places Research Institute, the Neurosciences and Mental Health Research Institute and the Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute.

In total Wales has over 30 centres of excellence offering cutting edge research initiatives that combine the expertise of education institutions with the world’s leading companies such as the new £30m Institute of Advanced Telecommunications and the new £50 Institute of Life Science, both at Swansea University; and the collaborative research institutes the High Performance Computing Wales and the Health Modelling Centre.

Throughout higher education in Wales it is evident that research and teaching expertise from wide-ranging disciplines is being drawn together to tackle the demand for knowledge in some of the most prominent worldwide industries including Information & Communications Technology, Energy & Environment, Advanced Materials & Manufacturing, Life Sciences and Financial Services.

To look at just one of these industries - over the last decade, while other countries have talked about making the environment a priority, Wales has been actively placing it at the heart of its policies and working to preserve

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the landscape of Wales which defines it as a nation. Wales has set itself on an ambitious path of sustainable economic growth, fostering and promoting a sustainable technologies sector, that is truly innovative enabling Wales to become a showcase for leading edge technologies.

However the real strengths of a higher education in Wales lie beyond its world class teaching and research, they are found in its superb and safe environment, cultural uniqueness and an enviable life style at a low cost which has led to its renowned international student experience.

Wales’ success in attracting international students from all around the world has been linked to its focus on students, with some of the best and most innovative international student support in the UK. Schemes such as Bangor University’s Buddying programme which is one of the largest of its kind in the UK have proved extremely effective in ensuring student satisfaction. In addition, unique programmes like Swansea University’s recent Welsh classes for international students offer a more diverse international student experience and help the integration of international and home students.

Aberystwyth University has recently been voted 1st of 123 higher education institutions worldwide in both “student satisfaction” and “the best place to be” in the International Student Barometer.

In the most recent National Student Survey, Aberystwyth was also placed top in Wales and 5th in the UK. The sixth annual survey of students has shown that more than four in five students in Wales continue to be satisfied with their university course.

Alan Edwards, International Welfare Officer at Bangor University said, “Our universities recognise that the key to ensuring international students continue to choose Wales is about ensuring that the international student experience is the best in the Wales.

The best ambassadors for Welsh education are the students who return to their countries telling others about their great experiences in both study and life in Wales. The award winning international student support teams in Wales are key to the increasing numbers of international students choosing Wales.”

WALES

two business schools that achieved a Chartered institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) and a renowned Manufacturing Engineering Centre.

www.walesinternationalconsortium.com View our e-guide to higher education in Wales www.i-studentadvisor.com/wic/ Take a tour of Wales www. walesinternationalconsortium.com/ walesinternationaltour/ WIC on facebook zh-cn.facebook.com/pages/WalesInternational-Consortium/132035513475242 WIC on twitter twitter.com/walesHE Contributed by: Wales International Consortium www.walesinternationalconsortium.com

BANGOR LAW SCHOOL Bangor University’s Law School is a modern and forward-looking international law school focused on equipping students with the skills and knowledge required to respond to the challenges of the 21st century.

Undergraduate degree programmes: • 3 year LLB Degree Schemes • 4 year LLB Degree Schemes with European Languages • 2 year LLB Law Degree Scheme (for those already holding a degree or who have successfully completed 1 or 2 years of a bachelor / undergraduate degree in another subject)

• Traditional University with over 125 years of teaching excellence • 2nd best value University City in the UK (Independent University Guide) • Scholarships and Bursaries available

Postgraduate degree programmes: • LLM International Commercial & Business Law • MBA Law and Management • MBA Banking and Law • MA Banking and Law • LLM Public Law and Devolved Governments • LLM Law (General) • PhD/MPhil/LLM (Research)

For further information: Bangor Law School, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2DG, UK  + 44 (0)1248 383 781 • law@bangor.ac.uk • www.bangor.ac.uk/law

SPAIN

Building an

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international profile…

In today’s increasingly global environment, international experience has become, if not a necessity, a significant asset. Essentially, there are two ways to gain that experience: You can either study abroad or pursue a degree with a decidedly international slant.

Every student who has spent a semester or year abroad will attest to how that time away from home, in a different country, changed their lives 52

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for the better. Studying abroad is an amazing experience that more and more students enjoy every year thanks to exchange programs.

with people from different cultures and societies, and to develop broader perspectives and a greater capacity for adaptation.

The experience can also be taken to the next level by studying an entire degree program (undergraduate or graduate) abroad, which is not only life changing, but also affords a recognized degree from a foreign institution. Studying abroad provides the chance to share points of view

… in Spain!

Spain has always been a favorite location among students looking to acquire international experience and immersion in a dynamic, multicultural Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

© IE Business School

enables the country to attract visitors of varied nationalities and serve as a platform for trade and the exchange of information. This environment, coupled with the entrepreneurial mindset growing throughout Spain, is a valuable combination for those preparing to enter the workforce.

Studying in Spain is a way to open many doors both in Spain and abroad, given that organizations need employees with diversified and international profiles to keep pace with global business development.

Spain is a strategic location that links Europe, North America, and Latin America. This privileged position

As universities and schools adapt to the new European standards, Spain is among those countries leading the

SPAIN

Living in Madrid Spain is known for its beautiful cities, and at its heart, Madrid is praised for its vibrant atmosphere and nightlife. As a major European capital and business hub, Madrid offers all the facilities a student could need: • Universities and graduate schools that offer high academic standards, abundant library resources, and superior research facilities • An excellent transport system that makes moving around Madrid easy: the subway comprised of 12 lines serves the whole city

© IE Business School

society. Moreover, Spain brings the opportunity to learn or perfect a language spoken by half a billion people worldwide, a language that is gaining significant prominence in the business world. Many degree programs in Spain are now offered in both Spanish and English.

International students can choose either option depending on their language level, and locals get the chance to perfect their English and develop a more international outlook themselves.

process by offering highly specialized and international programs. The Bologna Accord is currently seeking to standardize higher education degrees throughout Europe with the creation of the European Higher Education Area.

Basically this means a degree from a Spanish university will automatically be recognized by the 47 participating countries. One of the main advantages of the Bologna Accord is that it makes it much easier to move from one country to another – be it to experience life in another country or to seek employment following graduation. These changes will also enable greater integration between the European and the North American systems.

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SPAIN

• Student organizations and residences that provide help with information on the city, financial aid, and housing.

Historical buildings and monuments stand side by side with breathtaking modernity to provide a backdrop steeped in the Spanish culture and way of life, from the lively streets of La Latina to the green open spaces of El Retiro. Madrid has always been immersed in culture: there are the magnificent collections and ongoing exhibitions at the Prado Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, live performances in Madrid’s numerous theatres and venues, as well as music concerts, fairs, and festivals.

The cost of living in Madrid is lower than in most European capitals. Food is relatively cheap and going out is very affordable. The cost of accommodation, however, is comparable to that of other European capitals, so sharing an apartment is probably the best option for most students. In addition to saving on costs, sharing a flat with Spaniards or other international students will be an enriching experience, and will help build a network of close friends from around the world.

The Netherlands Bachelor Master PhD Graduate Schools

Since its inception in 1614, the University of Groningen has enjoyed an international reputation as a dynamic and innovative centre of higher education offering high-quality teaching and research. Balanced study paths encourage students and researchers to develop their individual talents.

By joining forces and pooling resources with prestigious international partner universities and networks, the University of Groningen plays an important role in the exchange of knowledge.

© IE Business School

Thanks to excellent connections by bus, train, and plane, Madrid is only a few hours away from other major cities in Spain, as well as other European capitals. Low cost companies and frequent offers enable travel all over Europe at very reasonable prices to iconic cities such as Rome, London, or Paris, which is a great way to round off an unforgettable international adventure.

Masters Degree in International Management Just as studying abroad can make for a more flexible mindset, academic study is another way to acquire the kind of international experience and cross-cultural perspective that is increasingly in demand in today’s job market.

A Masters in International Management (MIM) is an excellent example of a program that does just that, while equipping students with a solid working knowledge of subjects.

Economics and Business Humanities Law Behavioural and Social Sciences Life Sciences Science and Technology Spatial Sciences

This degree usually combines subjects as varied as international business,

digital business, finance, and sales and marketing. Such a program is traditionally aimed at young graduates in the early stages of their professional development which means that, unlike an MBA, previous working experience is not a must. The main objective is to help students improve their skills right after finishing their undergraduate studies.

The student body of MIM programs also tends to comprise extremely varied profiles, from economics and history majors, to engineers. This range of academic experience cultivates a creative and innovative classroom environment where a diverse mix of students can compare different mindsets and points of view. It goes without saying that this helps students develop a well-rounded network of peers.

The international focus of this type of masters program also entails learning how to facilitate the exchange of information within companies and agencies based in different countries. The skills, knowledge, and networking that a master in international management provides increase the chances of finding a challenging job in multinationals, international agencies, or in companies where globalization is a key corporate strategy.

Last but not least, there is a good possibility that such a career path will offer a wide range of experiences that involve travel and continued growth opportunities, like meeting new people and immersing yourself in different cultures.

Contributed by: Kerry Parke IE Business School www.ie.edu

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

www.rug.nl/internationalstudents

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College Ranking

Tables How do You Know Which

© Izabela Habur - IstockPhoto.com

College is the Best for You?

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In theory, a prospective student should be able to consult such ranking tables in order to decide which schools offer the best education in a particular area of study.

Unfortunately, things are not so simple.

Each organization uses a range of diverse statistical measures to generate its respective tables, some of which may produce rankings that are entirely irrelevant to a student’s academic interests.

Canadian students who are looking to apply to American colleges and universities should therefore be wary of the differing statistical methodologies used to generate ranking tables.

Some of the factors considered in generating a ranking list include (but are not restricted to) class sizes, range of degree options, specificity of degree options, opportunities for internships, scholarships and bursaries, peer review publications and research output, existence of technical degrees (such as law, medicine and business administration), financial success of alumni, and student, alumni and professor surveys.

The list below is composed of some of the most popular college rankings.

Here you will find a number of ranking systems along with a brief description of the measures that each system uses to distinguish between top-performing colleges.

U.S. News America’s Best Colleges (annual ranking) ranks national universities, liberal arts colleges, business programs and engineering programs. U.S. News uses a variety of indicators that are supposed to “capture academic quality,” the organization says.

According to U.S. News, those indicators fall into the following seven categories: assessment by administrators at peer institutions, retention of students, faculty resources, student selectivity, financial resources, alumni giving, and “graduation rate performance,” which refers to the difference between the proportion of students who are expected to graduate and the proportion of students who actually do.

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U.S. News feels that its ranking tables tell students and parents how well an “institution does its job of educating students.”

However, U.S. News admits that “many factors other than those we measure will figure in your decision, including the feel of campus life, activities, sports, academic offerings, location, cost, and availability of financial aid.”

None of those items are included in the U.S. News rankings.

In 2009, US News ranked Harvard University as the number one university. For more information on the U.S. News rankings, visit their website at http://colleges.usnews. rankingsandreviews.com/college The Washington Monthly’s “College Rankings” produced a controversial, though comprehensive, report in 2005 (published in 2006) entitled “Is our students learning?” That report offered American university and college rankings based upon how well the college had performed as an engine for social mobility.

The surveyors researched whether colleges helped poor student get rich and educated or whether they just helped rich students stay rich and get even more educated. Washington Monthly’s ranking also considered the degree to which colleges fostered scientific and humanistic research that aimed at improving society through the promotion of an ethic of public service. Washington Monthly reported that the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) emerged as the number one college in the United States based on those measures. http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/ features/2006/0609.collegechart.html Forbes magazine online (Forbes. com) published a list of “America’s Best Colleges” in 2008. In association with the Centre for College Affordability and Productivity, Forbes used an Alumni Who’s Who in America, student evaluations at www.ratemyprofessors. com, four-year graduation rates, enrolment-adjusted numbers of students and faculty who had received nationally competitive awards, and four-year accumulated student debt as its indicators. Forbes also separated colleges into top “overall,” “public” and “private” schools.

The college that topped Forbes’s “overall” listing was Princeton University, which also topped its

“private” school category. The college that topped Forbes’s “public” listing was the United States Military Academy. http://bestcollegerankings.org/popularrankings/forbes-college-rankings/

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Various private organizations within the United States and globally generate annual or periodic college ranking tables. Those tables are supposed to provide readers with a list of the best and worst universities and colleges in the U.S.

The Times Higher Education, a British publication that reports on higher education news, in association with Quacquarelli Symonds, publish the THES - QS World University Rankings—a listing of 500 universities from around the world. The list included many more non-American universities (especially British schools) in its upper tier of top colleges and universities. The THES - QS ranking uses a “peer review” system that incorporates the views of more than 3000 scholars and academics working in various research fields. In 2008, the Times Higher ranked Harvard as its number one university. At the end of this year, Quacquarelli Symonds will be reviewing its measures and methodology for future rankings. http://www.timeshighereducation. co.uk/hybrid.asp?typeCode=243 The École des Mines de Paris (located in Paris, France) also ranks world universities. Its system is based on the success of its alumni, where “success” is interpreted as having achieved a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) position in Fortune Global 500’s leading international businesses. That ranking system put Tokyo University in the number one position for 2009. http://www.ensmp.fr/Actualites/PR/ EMP-ranking.html#7 Students and parents should use these ranking tables with caution.

They can be useful tools as they can help students identify colleges and universities that they would not have otherwise thought to consider.

However, determining which college or university will be best suited for any particular student includes considering a wide range of factors.

Each of the rankings discussed above does not, and cannot, incorporate the personal needs of any one student.

Thus, rankings are best understood as subjective tools rather than absolute guides.

Contributed by:

By Joanna Severino, Founder & President of PREPSKILLS® Inc. www.prepskills.com

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Study in Boston,USA at Bunker Hill Community College Why Choose BHCC? We Offer: Transfer opportunities BHCC offers transfer opportunities to top universities throughout the USA.

Affordable two-year college education Dedicated faculty and small classes Individualized attention Outstanding academic programs BHCC has a strong English as a Second Language Program, and offers 94 Associate Degree and Certificate programs in such areas as: • International Business • Visual & Media Arts • Biotechnology • Finance • Engineering • Travel & Tourism Management

website: www.bhcc.mass.edu e-mail: international@bhcc.mass.edu phone: 617-228-2460 fax: 617-228-2442

The science of success.

Wayne State University, located in the heart of Midtown Detroit, prides itself on academic excellence across its 13 schools and colleges. From groundbreaking research in the Biomedical Engineering department – with its potential to help people live longer, healthier lives – to teaching tomorrow’s technology today through the brand-new Electric-Drive Vehicle Engineering program, there’s plenty of proof that on our campus, you can make a real difference. Honors College students can jump in with both feet through innovative programs such as MedStart, HealthPro Start and B Start – all of which offer a bright beginning. Learn more at wayne.edu.

AIM HIGHER

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USA

A S U n o i t a c u d E Think r Your Potential e v o c s Di 60

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Traditionally, a concern for Canadians interested in studying in the United States was cost. Today, many U.S. States extend their domestic tuition fee to Canadian students in an effort to eliminate the international student tuition barrier experienced by many international students. Furthermore, the availability of athletic and academic scholarships, as well as financial aid, has made study for Canadian students in the United States more attractive and viable than ever before.

An unknown fact for Canadian students is the availability of Canadian provincial funding when enrolling at a U.S. postsecondary program.

Canadian students can qualify for provincial funding if attending a U.S. postsecondary school, as long as the U.S. school appears as a designated school for the purposes of student loans under the Canada Student Loans Program (CSLP) master list. To confirm your eligibility for student financial assistance visit www.canlearn.ca.

The environment and culture – both on and off campus – in the United States can offer Canadian students a highly diverse, rich and memorable educational experience. Colleges and universities in the northern states can provide familiar climate conditions and easy access to home for those that want it, whereas institutions in the southern states can offer warmer climates and more independence from parents if that is the desire. Whether a student is looking for artistic and cultural centers, the fast-paced life of a major city or something in between, the United States has something for everyone.

The campus experience at a U.S. college or university offers students access to up-to-date technology, small or large classes, and housing on or near campus with fellow students. The teaching style is similar to that offered in Canada with quizzes, midterms, essays, assignments, labs, exams, seminars, and tutorials used as evaluation methods. There are plenty of opportunities for students to interact

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The transition from Canada to the United States for college or university is relatively painless with no language barriers to overcome, modern campuses and surrounding cities, and relatively modest travel costs.

Similar customs and values minimize culture shock and potential feelings of uncertainty while still allowing for exploration and discovery in the differences that do exist between Americans and Canadians. Local customs, foods, celebrations and a wide variety of regional differences provide opportunities to expand a student’s knowledge of the United States.

community colleges, professional schools, technical institutes, and religiously-affiliated schools. In the United States, the terms “college” and “university” are largely synonymous and interchangeable, and a school’s merit comes from its programs rather than its official title. Generally, the only substantive difference between a college and a university is that universities offer graduate programs while colleges do not, although there are many exceptions to this pattern.

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with professors, both in and out of the classroom, because the variety and number of academic institutions in the United States often allows for a smaller student-to-teacher ratio. Students are encouraged to participate in classroom discussions and challenge their fellow students’ as well as their professors’ arguments. This student-faculty openness is particularly beneficial, and many professors act as mentors to their students. Designated faculty advisors and international student advisors are also common, and provide additional guidance.

A common option in the United States is a “2 + 2” course of study. This allows students to save money while still earning a degree from a

The U.S. and Canadian education systems share similar structures. As a high school student applying for undergraduate programs, a student will likely need to complete the SATs, ACTs, and school-specific application forms. Fortunately, an increasing number of schools accept the Common Application, which makes it easier to apply to multiple U.S. schools. The Common Application Form is similar to the provincial application centers in Canada; but schools across the country use it to facilitate the application process.

For a graduate program, the GRE, GMAT, MCAT, or LSAT exam may need to be completed and supplemental information such as personal activities, educational plan, essays, and letters of recommendation may be necessary.

As daunting as this may sound, it is entirely manageable for a student who is well organized and communicates with the institutions that he or she will be considering for admission.

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An increasing number of Canadian students are exploring opportunities to further their education in the United States. In fact, over 29,000 Canadian students enrolled in U.S. postsecondary institutions during 20082009, making Canadians the fourth largest group of international students attending post-secondary schools in the United States.

The academic environment in the United States offers many options: In addition to colleges and universities, either state or privately run, there are two-year colleges,

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USA well-known institution. Many students choose this course by spending their first two years at a two-year college or a community college and then transferring to a larger public or private institution for their final undergraduate years.

A common question asked by Canadians considering studying abroad is the recognition of their degrees once they return to Canada.

As part of the evaluation process of

Organizations such as College Board, Education USA, NAFSA, StudyUSA and Think Education USA can be of assistance to students planning their education at an US institution. For more information on U.S. education and assistance in finding out more about the variety of options available in the United States, contact Education Specialist, Luz Betancur of the U.S. Commercial Service in Ottawa at 613.688.5216.

Typically, during the first two years as an undergraduate in the United States, a student takes a variety of courses from different disciplines and the student specifies a major to make up the bulk of the later portion of his or her studies, although there is still leeway for electives. At the graduate level (Masters and Doctorates), the programs are similar between Canada and the United States; however, in Canada the majority of Ph.D. programs require a Master’s prior to admittance while in the United States there are more Ph.D. programs that accept students directly from the undergraduate level.

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potential schools, students should contact the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials (www.cicic.ca) and request information on the status and acceptability of the program, institution, and credentials.

Contributed by: Luz E. Betancur, National Coordinator, Education & Training Initiatives US Commercial Service – US Embassy Ottawa Luz.betancur@mail.doc.gov

Study In Canada • Study Abroad

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

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Interested in a career in global health?

The Medical School for International Health is the only four-year, NorthAmerican style medical school that incorporates global health coursework into all four years of the required M.D. curriculum.

I did my undergraduate work at the McGill University in Montreal, but I chose the MSIH because it gave me the unique opportunity to study population health and cross-cultural medicine as part of my M.D. degree and gave me clinical experience in areas like refugee health and humanitarian emergencies.

Classes are taught in English. The campus in Beer-Sheva, Israel is the perfect location for hands-on experience with diverse populations.

I took my clinical electives in India and at Columbia University Medical Center and placed in a competitive U.S. residency program in Pediatrics.

Where will you be in four years?

Ben-Gurion University of the Negev - Faculty of Health Sciences

The Medical School for International Health in collaboration with Columbia University Medical Center

212-305-9587 admissions bgcu-md@columbia.edu www.cumc.columbia.edu/dept/bgcu-md

INFORMATION

What is

Service Learning?

Why is it an Important Part of Your Education?

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Truth be told, the traditions of university education are quite similar around the world. Students take courses in classrooms large and small; they learn by reading textbooks and listening to professors; they are tested with exams – often multiple choice. This is the way it has been, but it is not the way of the future. Recently, teachers have been working hard to change the face of higher education by taking learning out of the classrooms and tests out of bubble sheets. These instructors teach “service learning” classes.

What is Service Learning? It is not a major or the name of a particular course; it is the way a class is taught.

The teacher looks for real-world applications for the material studied

in class. For example, in a computer class on how to build websites, students could work with non-profit organizations in the community to help update and improve their website. In an English class, students might write letters to the local newspaper to raise awareness about a new recycling program. A theatre class might work with an after-school program to teach students about HIV/AIDS through dramatic skits.

Everyone knows the importance of volunteering. Not only is it a résumé builder, it is a way to get involved, make friends and have fun. We also know the importance of a college education. It prepares you for a good job and a good life.

Service Learning tries to combine these two things: volunteering and education. It is a way of teaching a university class which incorporates service in the community with the subject being taught. It is easy to see that service learning is great for the local community since schools, non-profits and other organizations benefit from skilled student volunteers. It is also very good for the students. By practic-

ing the skills they are learning in class they actually learn the material better and remember it longer.

There are various universities that are dedicated to service learning, with instructors who incorporate volunteering into their classes. Service Learning spans many departments such as Education, Nursing, and Psychology, among others.

Both the sciences and the arts benefit from service learning classes. You should make sure that service learning is part of your education because it makes a difference.

By Rehema Clarken Northern Michigan University www.nmu.edu

INFORMATION

Some people think that university education is disconnected from the everyday realities of real life. They say that college professors are locked in an ivory tower where they make up a world as remarkable as a Disney princess in an animated film. Others accuse universities of being stuck in the past because old, white-haired men have been talking at students in lecture halls for more than 400 years.

a Great eDuCatiOn at a Great DestinatiOn

12:1 student-faculty ratio Guaranteed internships Guaranteed study-travel experience More than 50 academic programs Championship nCaa Division ii athletics located between Orlando and tampa in central Florida

learn it. live it. Own it! [ lOve it! ]

For more information, go to www.flsouthern.edu/ownit

• 15:1 student/faculty ratio • Suburban location in Amherst, NY near Buffalo

Daemen offers more than 40 majors, including: Accounting Art Arts Administration Athletic Training Biochemistry

Biology Business Administration English French Graphic Design

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Nursing Physical Therapy Physician Assistant Political Science Pre-Med Psychology

Health Care Studies History History & Government Mathematics Natural Sciences

Religious Studies Social Work Spanish Sport Management Teachers College and more!

Get a “feel” for what Daemen College is all about ! www.daemen.edu 716.839.8225

Open House

Saturday, October 23

At High Point University, every student receives an extraordinary education in an inspiring environment with caring people.

Fast Facts: • • • • • • • • • •

Undergraduate Population: 3,300 Percentage of Freshmen Living on Campus: 97% Number of Undergraduate Majors: 68 Number of Pre-Professional Programs: 9 Number of Graduate Programs: 7 Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1 Average Class Size: 17 Number of States Represented: 46 Number of Countries Represented: 50 Percentage of Students from Out of State: 75%

High Point, NC • www.highpoint.edu

Earn a certificate with the University of California, Los Angeles

Stay competitive in the job market. Advance your current position. Or prepare for an exciting new career. Whatever your professional goal, UCLA Extension can provide the knowledge and skills you need.

We offer over 50 certificate programs in focused fields of study, which are approved for international students and recognized worldwide for their outstanding quality. Explore our popular programs in: • Marketing • International Trade & Commerce • Music Business • Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language

• General Business Studies (daytime option available) • Cinematography • Project Management • and more!

At UCLA Extension, you will study side-by-side with American students and enjoy the dynamic culture and attractions of sunny Los Angeles. Contact us today and take the next important step in your education and career development.

Contact: UCLA Extension International Programs 10995 Le Conte Avenue Los Angeles, California 90024 U.S.A. Phone: 001-310-825-9068 Fax: 001-310-825-6747 Email: alc@uclaextension.edu Website: uclaextension.edu/iso

“The program offered the perfect amount of instruction, and the teachers had lots of relevant work experience directly related to what they were teaching. I’m considering going back for another certificate in writing or directing. Coming from a cold climate, living half an hour from the beach is something that I never took for granted!”

— Virginia Kingston, Canada, Certificate in Entertainment Media: General Studies

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Top Five Reasons to Study in the

Considering an education outside your country’s borders? If so, you’re not alone. Every year, more and more students worldwide are realizing that the best route to professional success is to go around the world!

Many universities in many nations welcome international students as a source of diversity (and, frankly, revenue) for their campuses. Forwardthinking university leaders realize that international students benefit their campuses just as much as their education benefits the student. Due to these increasingly open borders, your options are dizzying.

So, when considering a university degree in another country, where should you go?

The United States is still the top destination for international students from every corner of the globe. In 2009, 671,616 students came to study in the US from around the world – and Canadians made up the fourth largest group. Here’s why: 1. The best higher education system in the world. While the US has lost some of its global leader status, its higher education system is still the envy of the world. Its emphasis on well-rounded study

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plans, creative and critical thinking, and unfettered research have created an incubator for many of the world’s greatest minds. US university students do not focus on rote learning, but on making their own contributions to their chosen field. And the US policy of general education – requiring every student to take at least a few courses outside their specialty – produces graduates with highly adaptive capabilities.

2. It’s a better bargain than it was even five years ago. The downside to America’s phenomenal university system is, of course, its phenomenal price tag. Especially for students from countries where education is paid for by public taxes, it’s difficult to stomach a fivefigure annual cost for their studies.

However, the current weakness of the US economy is a boon for international students – with the dollar low against many other currencies, your tuition money will go further in the US. 3. The flexibility to do what you love. Unlike many university students, American students are encouraged to explore different options before choosing a major.

This policy enables each student to make an informed, educated

choice about a major that matches his or her interests and strengths.

As a result, US students are likely to be more engaged in their coursework and their classrooms.

As graduates, most are better prepared for careers they genuinely enjoy.

4. Freedom of expression. Though discourse often devolves into shouting matches, the US university setting is a near-sacred place for expressing one’s opinions.

Short of hate speech, students and faculty can and do engage in frank discussions on any topic they wish. This kind of freedom is especially valued by students from more restrictive countries.

5. Opening professional doors.

For all the reasons listed above – and more – employers worldwide respect and value US university graduates. No matter what your future plans are, a US university degree can only improve them.

Contributed by: Chaney Kourouniotis Vice President World Education Group, LLC www.worldeducationgroup.com

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INFORMATION

Working Abroad Adds Value To Your Résumé Every year thousands of young Canadians take advantage of the chance to work and live abroad.

The desire to learn about another culture and discover one’s self within the context of the world is easily appreciated. Working holidays offer people the chance to explore an exciting country while gaining international work experience and earning an income.

Many career-oriented young people are intrigued by the idea of a working holiday, but decide that they do not have the time to take off from school and work. In reality, working abroad for a year or two can add value to education and professional qualifications. Résumés with international work experience stand out. Employers appreciate the independence, personal resourcefulness and problem-solving skills necessary to work abroad.

Young Canadians are privileged in being eligible for working holiday visas from several countries, including

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the United Kingdom, Ireland, Austria, Germany, France, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Japan, and South Africa. Working holiday visas for these countries are only issued once in a lifetime, and have strict age restrictions. It’s essential to go while still within the age limitations, and before becoming locked into mature responsibilities.

Many people on work programs pursue more career-related positions, while others quickly find casual work in the service and hospitality industries.

Most find work within the first twoweeks but it can take a little longer to find a specifically field-relevant professional job. “We recommend that people who are looking for a more career-type job be open to taking a casual work while searching for a job more relevant to their field of interest,” says Libby Law, Director of SWAP Working Holidays. There are plenty of jobs available to Canadians working abroad in fields such as graphic design, production, English tutoring, bartending, and secretarial, just to

name a few. Working holiday visa holders are free to pursue any type of employment.

Some programs do not place participants in jobs, but rather provide all of the resources needed to find work and accommodation in the destination country, and applies for the working holiday visa on applicants’ behalf. An important part of working and living abroad involves pursing the type of job, accommodation, friends and lifestyle that each individual is most interested in.

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Support services save time, money, and frustration upon arrival in the chosen host country. When participants arrive in their destination country they attend an orientation at the overseas partner’s hosting centre.

The support staff members go over how to find work and accommodation, employment and tax laws, and what format resumes should be in.

They offer assistance in opening a

bank account, obtaining a tax file number, and much more. Up-to-date job postings, as well as computers, Internet, fax machines, printers, and phones are also provided. Social events are also hosted so that travellers can make new friends from all over the world.

Working holidays are truly lifechanging and incredibly rewarding experiences for Canadians. People who go on a working holiday find more opportunities available to them, and increased confidence when they return to Canada. It is the sort of adventure that will build character and self-reliance that will be relied upon in future professional settings.

Work holidays are rarely regretted, though many people do regret not taking advantage of the chance to live abroad.

Contributed by: Sarah Edwards Marketing Coordinator, SWAP Working Holidays www.swap.ca Photo credits: SWAP

INFORMATION

One of the most rewarding components of working abroad comes from gaining opportunities independently. One participant currently working in Ireland, Melissa Strange, loved how her work program gave her the support she needed, while she maintained her freedom.

Melissa says, “I like how the program is designed to assist you in creating your own adventure rather than planning one out for you. If SWAP lined you up with a job rather than providing you with the resources to find your own, the entire experience would not be as beneficial.� Melissa loves the working holiday-maker lifestyle and plans on going on a working holiday in Australia after her Irish visa expires.

VOLUNTEERISM

SOS

Students Offering Support

Student-led initiative helps students in Latin America The cycle of student volunteerism in universities and colleges often goes something like this: A student arrives on campus and signs up to be a part of a campus club, filled with the promise of new friendships, volunteer experience and sometimes even the chance to raise money for a good cause.

Fast forward eight months to when the student is packing up their parents’ minivan in April to head home; they are smiling and happy from the friendships they formed, and somebody somewhere has benefitted from the funds raised by their club. But do the students who baked the cookies, washed the cars or canvassed their neighbours for spare change

actually get to see with their own eyes whose life has been bettered by their fundraising efforts? In many cases, the answer is no.

This was the dilemma in 2004 for the leader of a small campus club that provided tutoring services at Wilfrid Laurier University. How can students be a part of the whole process, from fundraising to putting that money in action where it is needed? The idea the club came up with then has now ballooned into an internationally recognized non-profit organization called Students Offering Support, or SOS for short.

“It started out as just an opportunity for some students to get to know each other,” explained then business and computer science student Greg Overholt, 25, now the NGO’s Executive Director. “We got a couple of students together who were pretty good at math

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Overholt and the staff at Students Offering Support are always on the lookout for motivated student leaders to start up a chapter at their university or college.

and we started to help our peers study for their exams. The groups of people wanting help got bigger and bigger and we realized that there was a lot of potential for us to raise money in this way.”

With that, SOS was formed. The club would ask for a $20 donation from each student in exchange for good quality tutoring, led by peers, so the material was clear and understandable. At the end of the year, the money raised was sent to build education-based sustainable development projects in Latin American countries, which are built by student volunteers who travel there on outreach trips.

“It was a no-brainer for me,” said Jason Frittaion, a student who has attended a number of SOS sessions and is now a tutor himself. “By learning from my peers, I understood the material so much better, did better on my exams, and I knew that my money was going to a good cause. It’s a winwin.”

The students who provided the tutoring were offered the chance to bring the money to the chosen community, and build a new school, brick by brick themselves.

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“We actually got to meet the kids who would be learning in the school that we built,” said volunteer Melissa Desouza, who traveled to Belize as part of SOS’ first outreach trip. “I had never done anything like that with another campus club.”

The word spread, and now SOS is a fixture in 16 universities across Canada. In the club’s six-year history, they have had participation from more than 1000 student volunteers throughout Canada, raised more than $440,000 through their tutoring program, visited 11 communities in Latin America and constructed 14 different schools, community centers and community gardens.

“There is so much opportunity for other students to do something like this on their campus,” he noted. “This is a chance to make a really meaningful impact in a short period of time which is pretty cool.”

To get more information about Students Offering Support or to start up a chapter at your university or college, visit www.studentsofferingsupport.ca.

Contributed by: Katie Edmonds Students Offering Support www.studentsofferingsupport.ca Photo credits: SOS

VOLUNTEERISM

“It’s just a simple idea that started as something really small,” said Overholt.

“It’s amazing how many people have become involved and who have wanted to give back. What starts as somebody wanting to get a better mark on an exam can mushroom into 20 years of education in a small rural community, and that’s pretty awesome.”

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NEW ZEALAND

Get a ‘Hands-On’ Education in

New Zealand Studying in New Zealand is a ‘very hands-on’ experience for most. Whether they’re researching a doctoral thesis, training to become an outdoor adventure leader, or hoping to understand and predict natural disasters, they can enhance their studies in New Zealand with real-life experiences.

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For students specializing in geology or environmental studies, New Zealand is the ideal place to get their hands dirty. The country has several active volcanoes, underground geothermal areas, low-lying glaciers, and is situated on the border of two tectonic plates. This allows for some unique research opportunities. Over one-third of New Zealand’s area is protected parkland or forest, so it’s easy to access natural areas without having to stray far from educational facilities or urban conveniences.

New Zealand’s remoteness also makes it a great place to study protected wildlife, with populations of penguin, albatross, the world’s only alpine parrot – the kea – and the world’s heaviest insect, the giant weta.”

New Zealand is also famous for being an adventure-lover’s playground. The rugged but accessible landscape makes it a must-do for hikers, mountaineers, kayakers, surfers, skiers, mountain bikers, and of course bungy jumpers! For some, the great recreational activities in New Zealand are just a bonus of studying here. For others, the recreational activities are a key element in their studies.

Everything from a certificate to a postgraduate degree can be obtained in the field of outdoor recreation in New Zealand. Studying in a country renowned for adventurous outdoor experiences is ideal for students who want a piece of the action. In addition to more general qualifications, students in New Zealand can become

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

Along with the eight universities, New Zealand has 21 Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics around the country offering practical courses which lead to certificates, diplomas and degrees in a number of subjects. Often their courses include the opportunity to get valuable work experience as part of their programs. This gives students skills that just can’t be learned in the classroom.

Hundreds of private training providers round out the options for students, with courses that lead directly to careers in fields like IT, business, travel and hospitality.

and participation in class, mean that students from overseas get to know their classmates quickly and make friends easily. Leisure time is important to New Zealanders, so students are likely to have a lot of fun while they’re in the country. That balance of great education and memorable experiences is what makes New Zealand such a popular place to study.

Studying in New Zealand, whether for a few months or a few years, is an experience that international students treasure for the rest of their lives. You may get your hands a bit dirty, but you’ll also get a chance to participate in practical training and research to help launch your career.

Source: Education New Zealand www.newzealandeducated.com

New Zealand has a national quality assurance system, called the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA). This ensures that students taking courses in New Zealand are consistently getting a great education that can be transferred to other schools around the world and is recognized by potential employers. This makes it easy to complete an entire degree in New Zealand or just a few DO YOU specialized Want to work with horses ? courses as part Want a qualification to prove you are good at it ? of a semester Want to travel and explore another country ? abroad.

Kyrewood Equestrian Centre

The small population of New Zealand also means that class sizes tend to be smaller, allowing students more personal attention from lecturers and tutors. The small classes, along with the emphasis on discussion

THEN COME TO NEW ZEALAND To the Equestrian Centre that has it all Outstanding facilities Excellent horses Friendly, experienced, QUALIFIED tutors

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OF UP TO 34 WEEKS AND GAIN A CERTIFICATE issued by the New Zealand Government’s Education Department, that will be recognised world wide

YOU MAY SPECIALISE

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NEW ZEALAND

qualified as skydiving instructors, scuba diving instructors, and skiing or snowboarding instructors, to name just a few.

INFORMATION

Top 50

MBA programs in the world

Financial Times ranking

© Andres Rodriguez - Dreamstime.com

Whether you are looking for a full-time MBA or a two-week course to improve your management skills, the Financial Times rankings list the best management programs available worldwide.

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Study In Canada • Study Abroad

To be eligible to participate in the rankings, European or US schools should be accredited by an international accreditation body, e.g., AACSB, Equis or Amba; they must have a program that has been running for at least four years; and they must have graduated its first class at least three years before the ranking publication date.

Have a look at the most recent rankings:

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

School

1 London Business School 2 University of Pennsylvania: Wharton

Country

Salary increase (%)

Employment (%)

U.K.

124

81

U.S.A.

111

75

3 Harvard Business School

U.S.A.

109

87

4 Stanford University GSB

U.S.A.

110

85

France / Singapore

102

79

5 Insead 6 IE Business School

Spain

159

89

6 Columbia Business School

U.S.A.

121

77 83

8 MIT Sloan School of Management

U.S.A.

120

9 Hong Kong UST Business School

China

131

91

9 University of Chicago: Booth

U.S.A.

116

82

11 Iese Business School

Spain

136

86

12 Indian School of Business

India

166

97

13 Dartmouth College: Tuck

U.S.A.

112

83

13 New York University: Stern

U.S.A.

121

80

15 IMD

Switzerland

86

88

U.S.A.

131

85

U.K.

108

74

18 HEC Paris

France

104

89

19 Esade Business School

Spain

126

81

20 Duke University: Fuqua

76

16 Yale School of Management 16 University of Oxford: Saïd

U.S.A.

101

21 University of Cambridge: Judge

U.K.

110

89

22 Northwestern University: Kellogg

U.S.A.

100

80

22 Ceibs

China

133

75

24 Lancaster University Management School

U.K.

131

78

Netherlands

102

85

U.K.

89

95

Singapore

109

81

28 Chinese University of Hong Kong

China

127

93

28 University of California at Berkeley: Haas

U.S.A.

82

81

28 University of Michigan: Ross

U.S.A.

96

71

31 University of Virginia: Darden

U.S.A.

112

77

U.K.

107

85

25 Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University 26 Cranfield School of Management 27 Nanyang Business School

32 Imperial College Business School 33 UCLA: Anderson

U.S.A.

105

71

34 Carnegie Mellon: Tepper

U.S.A.

102

81

U.S.A.

119

72

Australia

87

81

34 Emory University: Goizueta 36 Australian School of Business 36 Cornell University: Johnson

U.S.A.

101

70

Italy

105

85

U.S.A.

110

78

40 Manchester Business School

U.K.

91

93

41 City University: Cass

U.K.

83

93

38 SDA Bocconi 38 Georgetown University: McDonough

42 Warwick Business School

INFORMATION

Ranking

U.K.

86

89

43 University of Maryland: Smith

U.S.A.

100

85

44 Rice University: Jones

U.S.A.

105

83

45 University of Toronto: Rotman

Canada

87

83

46 University of North Carolina: Kenan-Flagler

U.S.A.

94

69

47 Boston College: Carroll

U.S.A.

96

82

48 University of Rochester: Simon

U.S.A.

110

83

49 Washington University: Olin

U.S.A.

99

91

49 University of Western Ontario: Ivey

Canada

92

87

Source: http://rankings.ft.com/businessschoolrankings

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

Study In Canada • Study Abroad

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STUDY WITH

IN NORWAY

THE BEST COUNTRY IN THE WORLD TO LIVE IN BI Norwegian School of Management has become one of the largest business schools in Europe and the second largest academic institution in Norway.

BI’s bachelor programmes are based on economics, marketing and management subjects areas. In addition the bachelor programmes provide students with the opportunity to specialise within a selected field. The bachelor programmes give you the opportunity to combine your own interests with specialised knowledge which is highly sought after in the labour market.

Bachelor of Business Administration The world of education is becoming increasingly global and the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) programme at BI Norwegian School of Management has been developed to reflect this. This three-year, full-time programme is taught entirely in English and has an international focus and student body.

Bachelor of Shipping Management The Bachelor of Shipping Management at BI will give you a taste of an exciting and globalised industry: the Shipping Industry.

Norway is still one of the leading shipping nations in the world and BI has along tradition of teaching and doing research in the Shipping area. Commencing in fall 2011 the programme is taught entirely in English. The programme will enable you to develop analytical and strategic skills related to the Shipping Industry.

Master Programmes BI Norwegian School of Management offers 7 different two-year, full-time Master of Science (MSc) programmes that provide professional skills to meet the increasing need of businesses.

Taught entirely in English the MSc programmes provide a stimulating and multi-cultural learning environment with an international outlook. The MSc programmes are thorough, demanding and interactive.

MSc in Business and Economics MSc in Financial Economics MSc in Strategic Marketing Management MSc in Innovation and Entrepreneurship MSc in Political Economy MSc in Leadership and Organisational Psychology MSc in International Management To find out more about the Bachelor and Master programmes available please get in touch Web: www.bi.edu Email: study@bi.edu Call: +47 81 00 05 00 Or meet us in person, when we visit your country

“Having grown up abroad it was nice to come home to Scandinavia, and even nicer to find that in my BBA class 55 nationalities were represented so I still had a good third of the world with me.”

Carl-Adam Sjölander, Sweden, BBA 2nd year

EFMD

L’ANGLETERRE

Education UK:

© Albo - Fotolia.com

Innovative • Individual • Inspirational

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Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

L’ANGLETERRE En choisissant de suivre un programme d’études au Royaume-Uni, vous adhérerez à une tradition d’excellence et d’innovation qui a produit plus de 40 lauréats du prix Nobel au cours des cinquante dernières années, seulement dans le domaine scientifique. Cette tradition: • a inventé le principe du Web; • a mis au point le premier ordinateur programmable; • produit 9% des articles scientifiques publiés dans le monde et 13% des textes les plus cités (pas mal pour un pays qui compte seulement 1% de la population mondiale); • se traduit par une productivité de recherche supérieure à celle des États-Unis: les chercheurs du Royaume-Uni produisent 16 articles de recherche pour chaque million de £ investi comparativement à 10 articles aux États-Unis et 4 articles au Japon.

S’il existe une foule de raisons pour lesquelles vous devriez étudier au Royaume-Uni, le nombre de matières parmi lesquelles choisir est encore plus grand: des centaines d’universités et de collèges d’éducation Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

supérieure offrent des cours allant de l’aérospatiale à la zoologie et un diplôme britannique vous permettra de vous spécialiser dans le domaine qui vous intéresse, dans un pays réputé partout au monde pour la qualité de sa recherche et l’excellence de ses enseignants.

Les diplômes de premier cycle du Royaume-Uni sont respectés et reconnus à travers le monde. Un baccalauréat ou encore un diplôme professionnel de type HND ou Foundation délivré par un collège ou une université britannique vous donnera les compétences dont vous aurez besoin pour être dans la course quand viendra le temps d’obtenir un emploi ou une place au sein d’un programme d’études supérieures. Il sera la preuve pour les employeurs que vous êtes capable, faites preuve d’autodiscipline et avez l’habitude de mener et d’analyser vos propres recherches. Ils sauront que vous pouvez apporter une réelle contribution à leur entreprise ou organisation. En revanche, si le milieu universitaire vous intéresse, les aptitudes à la recherche que vous y acquerrez seront une excellence introduction à des études supérieures. Les diplômes des cycles supérieurs du Royaume-Uni - une maîtrise, un doctorat ou encore un M.B.A. - sont aussi respectés et réputés à travers le monde.

Study In Canada • Study Abroad

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L’ANGLETERRE

La plupart des programmes de maîtrise et de M.B.A. des universités britanniques durent une seule année comparativement à deux ans dans plusieurs autres pays. En choisissant d’étudier au Royaume-Uni, vous n’aurez à payer des frais de scolarité que pendant un an et serez de retour sur le marché du travail dans le temps de le dire. Votre séjour au Royaume-Uni vous permettra de vous immerger totalement dans l’anglais, la langue internationale des affaires. En même temps, vous deviendrez partie intégrante d’une communauté vraiment internationale – un pourcentage élevé des étudiants des cycles supérieurs au RoyaumeUni proviennent de l’étranger et on retrouve jusqu’à 50 nationalités différentes sur un même campus.

Cette formidable expérience vous donnera une longueur d’avance à la fin de votre cours.

l’enseignement supérieur britannique se maintienne à un niveau qui est respecté et admiré partout au monde. Périodiquement, le Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) évalue la qualité de la recherche menée dans les collèges et universités britanniques. C’est grâce à des systèmes d’assurance qualité comme celui-là que le Royaume-Uni conserve sa réputation de chef de file au chapitre de la qualité de l’éducation et qu’il continue à offrir une expérience d’apprentissage exceptionnelle à un nombre croissant d’étudiants internationaux.

Durant vos études au Royaume-Uni, vous pourrez pratiquez votre anglais tous les jours, dans les boutiques et les cafés, pendant vos sorties avec des amis anglophones ainsi que dans les séminaires et

les groupes de discussion de votre programme scolaire. Beaucoup d’universités britanniques offrent des activités de soutien en anglais et, si vous avez besoin d’une assistance supplémentaire avant de commencer, les cours internationaux d’introduction vous aideront à amener vos aptitudes de communication au niveau voulu.

Le large éventail de cours offerts vous donne une grande flexibilité. Vous pouvez vous inscrire directement à un programme de baccalauréat, ou commencer par suivre un programme HND ou Foundation de deux ans, puis, si vous le désirez, poursuivre pour obtenir un diplôme. Vous pouvez vous inscrire à un programme spécialisé, consacré à une seule discipline, ou

Si les diplômes britanniques sont aussi réputés à l’échelle mondiale, c’est en partie à cause des normes de qualité strictes auxquels ils sont soumis. Le Royaume-Uni est reconnu mondialement pour son système unique d’assurance qualité qui garantit une responsabilisation dans tous les secteurs. À la grandeur de l’organisation, depuis les services de soutien à l’étudiant jusqu’au personnel enseignant, chaque école et établissement d’enseignement professionnel et supérieur est l’objet d’un examen rigoureux afin d’assurer le respect de normes de qualité.

© Garik Barseghyan - Fotolia.com

Un an après la fin de leurs études, plus de 95 pour cent des diplômés de premier cycle britanniques sont avec l’emploi. Pour devenir médecin ou avocat, vous devez, bien sûr, avoir les qualifications requises, mais un diplôme est tout aussi important dans de nombreux autres domaines: fonction publique, édition, relations publiques et marketing. Un diplôme indique aux employeurs que vous êtes capable de penser par vous-même, de mener des recherches et des analyses et que vous êtes prêt à travailler fort.

La Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) veille à ce que

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Study In Canada • Study Abroad

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

Dans une université britannique, vous rencontrerez des gens issus des quatre coins du monde, dont les différences culturelles et les nouvelles perspectives enrichiront votre expérience. Les étudiants internationaux constituent 14% de la population étudiante à plein temps au Royaume-Uni et 43% des chercheurs des cycles supérieurs. Peu importe où vous étudierez, vous rencontrerez des étudiants d’Asie, d’Afrique, d’Europe, des Amériques et de l’Australasie.

Grâce aux associations culturelles de l’université, vous aurez la chance de comprendre leur culture et de leur faire découvrir la vôtre. Ces expériences sociales façonneront votre perception de la communauté internationale au sein de laquelle vous chercherez bientôt à faire carrière.

Pour en apprendre davantage sur les études au RoyaumeUni, visitez le site Web Education UK du British Council à www.educationuk.org.

Canada: British Council Canada www.britishcouncil.org/canada Liane Fraser, Gestionnaire d’information, Montréal Education.enquiries@ca.britishcouncil.org

L’ANGLETERRE

© DeVIce - Fotolia.com

opter pour un programme spécialisé bidisciplinaire ou multidisciplinaire. Aux cycles supérieurs, vous pouvez commencer par vous inscrire à un cours de second cycle (PG Dip), puis passer à la maîtrise ou commencer par suivre des études de MRes – maîtrise de recherche –pouvant conduire au doctorat. Il n’en dépend que de vous!

UNITED KINGDOM

Important Tips on Choosing a

University in the UK While applying to study abroad, you have to consider a lot of issues beyond simply what course you want to study or which university to apply to. There might be quite a number of universities that offer the subject you are interested in, so how do you decide among them? Following some of these tips will guide and assist you to make an informed decision.

yourself a lot of questions that you want to sort out; then take suggestions from friends living abroad, examine university websites (ask them to send you a brochure if they have that option), and use relevant links and materials you can compile to help find the answers to your questions and to compare information.

Open House

Research It is of paramount importance that you do thorough research before you start applying for admission to the school(s) of your choice. Be prepared to ask 84

Study In Canada • Study Abroad

It is worthwhile to visit the UK in June/ July, when most of the UK universities arrange open days. It is the best way to find out whether the institutions you are thinking of applying to are

up to your expectations. You can visit individual departments, ask questions of lecturers and generally get a feel for the place. Visit www.opendays.com for where and when you can visit.

Roam Around the City If you are visiting a university for an open house, take the opportunity to see the city itself and get a sense of the surroundings. You will be living there for one to three years, so it is worth roaming around and, if possible, to meet alumni or students currently staying there.

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

Most of the UK universities now visit Canada regularly giving students a chance to meet them in person and enquire about courses, the university, UK lifestyle, a particular city, etc. If you are currently engaged in full-time studies, ask your career services centre about which university is visiting next. The Study and Go Abroad Fairs is currently providing the largest showing of UK institutions at one time, so be sure to visit them when they are in your city. www.studyandgoabroad.com University Representatives Universities also appoint representatives, who either will be based in your city or easily reachable.

You can get their details from the university website or by doing a google search on: “UK university representatives in Canada”. Before contacting any of the representatives, make sure you do a bit of research on them and find answers to your questions such as if they have successfully sent students to the UK; which universities they work with; the extent of their knowledge about the

courses; and most importantly the they work with your best interest as priority and not just to fulfill a university quota. They should not try to convince you to attend only the universities they represent, rather, they should assist you in the overall process for any university. If you are applying to a bachelors program, consult with a UCAS registered representative based in your area.

Course A number of universities have particular subjects that they specialise in. For example, some may specialize in Media and Business programs, others in Tourism and Journalism courses, and others yet in Law or Medicine. Ask a registered representative, your study abroad advisor, or guidance counsellor which schools are particularly strong in your area of interest.

City or Campus There are about 124 state (government funded) universities and one private UK university. Some of them are scattered throughout the town or city in which they are located, while others

www.qmul.ac.uk

Study in London

• Queen Mary is one of the largest colleges of the worldfamous University of London

• We are top-ranked with a worldwide reputation for excellence

• We have a unique campus environment, including accommodation, only 15 minutes from central London

• We are at the cutting edge of knowledge due to our outstanding research, teaching and study facilities

• We offer 3 year undergraduate programs (including the LLB), 1 year graduate programs, and doctoral programs

• We have a welcoming, cosmopolitan environment with extensive social and sporting activities

studyinlondon@qmul.ac.uk Arts • Business • Law • Medicine • Dentistry • Engineering • Sciences

are all in one place: on a campus. So decide yourself if you want all your lectures and general amenities near your accommodation, or you would rather prefer facilities that are a bit more spread out.

Stay Informed There are myriad websites and information tools available to you. In addition to choosing the right program and institution, be sure to check out information on visa requirements, accommodations, overall costs, working rules and conditions. There is a lot involved, but if you stay informed and prepare yourself well, you will have the experience of a lifetime!

Contributed by: Yasir Majid (President) Students Solution – UCAS registered representative based in Toronto. www.studentssolution.co.uk

UNITED KINGDOM

Exhibition/Information Sessions

KOREA

Discover

Korea! © Benjamin Huseman - Fotolia.com

From Russia with Love – for Kimchi

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Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

When asked about their motivation to study abroad most students will of course – being good students – recite a textbook answer: “To improve my language skills” or “To enhance my résumé of experience to get a good job.” But behind these practical and indeed very good reasons, often lies something deeper – and something much more personal.

One such reason to study abroad is to explore your cultural heritage.

Each year many ‘heritage-seeking’ students come to Korean universities from all over the globe, sharing one thing in common: the desire to learn more about the country of their origins.

Having been born and raised abroad, and as a result not very familiar with Korean customs, food or language, these students seek to learn more about the land of their ancestors, to get a better sense of their own cultural identity.

“We see a large number of what we dub ‘heritage-seeking’ international students participating in our programs,” says Mr. Jongkeun Kim, Manager of Student Mobility programs at Korea University, one of the nation’s leading private universities. “I would estimate that perhaps 10 to 15 percent of our incoming international students have some Korean background, either through their families having emigrated years ago, or through being adopted abroad.”

Indeed the extent of the Korean diaspora is much larger and vast than many realize. Consisting of nearly seven million people scattered over 100 countries, there are Koreans in almost every corner of the globe.

However, five countries currently make up about 85 percent of the total Diaspora - China, USA, Japan, Canada and Russia.

Mikhail Li, currently a Master’s student in convention management, is a good example of someone who came to Korea to explore his family’s roots while continuing his studies. With a mischievous smile and a playful demeanor, Mikhail is a friendly and talkative young man in his midtwenties, who will be finishing his studies in Korea in February, 2011.

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

“After I graduated from school in Russia, I decided to come to Korea to take a degree and at the same time learn more about my family’s heritage,” says Mikhail. “When I was growing up, I often wondered about what Korea was like and how it had influenced my family, so when I heard of an opportunity to study there, I jumped at it.”

Mikhail’s family has lived in Uzbekistan, one of the former Russian Soviet republics, for over three generations.

He has traced their roots from the time of Stalin’s resettlement of ethnic minorities in the region during the first half of the last century. Mikhail was born in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, but moved to Sakhalin Island (which is in Far East of Russia) before eventually coming to Korea.

“I have really learned a lot in Korea.

Not only will I have gained a solid education, but I have also greatly improved my Korean language skills, which were basically non-existent before I got here. Beyond having heard my grandparents speaking Korean with a unique Central Asian dialect, I really had to start as a beginner.”

a country that is important to me and my family. Coming here has helped me to better understand who I really am.”

KOREA

There are as many reasons to study abroad as there are international students.

When asked about one of his most memorable moments when he first came to Korea, Mikhail quickly replied: “Honestly, when I first came here I was surprised at people eating kimchi at every meal – breakfast, lunch and dinner. Back home my family would sometimes serve it on special holidays, and I never really ate it much. But having been in Korea a while now however, I really love it!”

Contributed by D’Arcy Drachenberg.

D’Arcy, a Canadian citizen, is currently Manager of International Communications and Protocol at the Office of International Affairs at Korea University. He has an MBA from the Korea Development Institute of Public Policy & Management in Seoul. www.korea.ac.kr

But, like all personal growth experiences, coming to Korea was also challenging at times. Mikhail admits that being a foreigner, but looking Asian, can sometimes create confusion. “Most people I meet for the first time think I am Korean so they don’t understand why I am not always acting or saying things in a typically Korean way. As a result they think I am either Japanese or Chinese. It takes a while for people to figure out my history and background.”

Students also commonly speak of understanding themselves better through their study abroad experience.

“Before, if someone asked me I would say ‘I am a typical Russian guy,’ but now, after being here for a few years, I can say that I am sort of half-andhalf,” exclaims Mikhail with a laugh.

“Koreans have a very strong sense of ethnic identity and it can’t help but rub off on you. I think these changes in my personality are positive – I have become more attentive to others’ and I am also much more aware of the social pecking order that is still very important here.”

“Being an international student has really changed me, because it has given me a chance to live and study in

Study In Canada • Study Abroad

87

INSPIRATION

YES Entrepreneurs

Can Change the World.

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Study In Canada • Study Abroad

It was a chance to make history and help change the world. With a little cowbell to boot.

From June 20 – 22, 2010, more than 200 young entrepreneurs, leaders of entrepreneurial organizations, government officials and special guests from the G20 nations came to Toronto for the inaugural G20 Young Entrepreneur Summit (G20 YES), to talk about what is needed to encourage and support young entrepreneurs around the world.

Hosted by the Canadian Youth Business Foundation (CYBF), the G20 YES was modeled after the official G20 Leaders Summit. However, instead of protests and politics, this summit offered a youthful dynamic atmosphere, combining discussion of key issues that face entrepreneurs around the world and international networking opportunities with dancing, singing, music and the ringing of the Olympic cowbells provided to all delegates.

“It was great to be part of such a unique, positive spin-off of the G20,” enthused Canadian delegate Tal Dehtier, owner of Oliberté Limited, a

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

INSPIRATION Canadian company that manufactures premium footwear exclusively in Africa. “The G20 Young Entrepreneur Summit embraced the fact that youth entrepreneurship has a huge impact both economically and socially, and helps to build healthy communities all over the world in both developed and developing nations. It was an inspirational experience to meeting fellow entrepreneurs from the different G20 countries.”

“All the entrepreneurs who I met had such positive things to say, even with the rough economy around the world lately,” added Megan O’Brian, a U.S. delegate and owner of the graphic design company Visual Ingenuity, LLC. “Everyone is so positive and optimistic about the future of not only their business, but the future of the global economy as a whole.”

challenges facing new business owners around the world.

“The G20 YES brings attention to an issue that has been agreed upon around the world,” said Indian delegate Lakshmi Venkatesan of the Bhartiya Yuva Shaki Trust. “We need entrepreneurship because it creates jobs and growth in G20 nations and individual countries. The G20 leaders need to recognize that and support these organizations.”

The Need for Support

Working under the theme of “Entrepreneurship = Recovery = Jobs” the two-day Summit culminated in the founding of a new movement – the G20 Young Entrepreneurs’ Alliance, an international initiative will engage G20 leaders in the cause of youth entrepreneurship, share information about common challenges and create a global network of young entrepreneur advocates.

Recognized by the Canadian government as an official G20 event, the Summit marked the first time in history that international entrepreneurial organizations came together in a way that mirrored the official G20, addressing the mutual

“It’s essential that the G20 events are more than just talking shop,” emphasized Peter Grigg of Enterprise UK, one of the attending organizations. “Young entrepreneurs and organizations that support them need to be at the heart of actions

Fall/Winter 2010 • Issue: 5

to support our future economies.

By coming together, we’ve seen the similarities from all the different countries. We all think the same thing – that youth entrepreneurship is the key to recovery and the key to sorting out the economic crisis. And we have some great ideas on how make that happen.”

Those great ideas were developed into an official document calling upon the governments of the G20 countries to recognize that young entrepreneurs have the power to change their lives, their communities and their countries. (see sidebar) Stories from the Front Lines Delegates had the opportunity to hear first-hand how their global counterparts impacted their communities through discussion panels with Canadian and international entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial organizations. In addition, renowned business leaders including Tom Jenkins of Open Text Corporation, Eric Boyko of Stingray Digital and John Risley of Clearwater Fine Foods Inc. told participants of their struggles and achievements when they first launched their companies,

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INSPIRATION and shared their suggestions on how to avoid and overcome the challenges that face all new entrepreneurs.

The importance of networking was one topic stressed by all speakers, and one that was thoroughly exploited by all attendees.

“The G20 YES allowed young entrepreneurs like me to network with delegates from the other countries, which for me has been one of the best parts of the Summit,” confessed Barbara Gallo of Progind SRL, ringing her cowbell beside her fellow Italian delegates. “It’s been an incredibly rich and rewarding event.”

A sign of the changing world of networking, delegates not only exchanged business cards, but added new friends and followers to Facebook pages and Twitter feeds, allowing them to strengthen their new connections and build business relationships that would go far beyond the two-day Summit.

History in the Making While the contact opportunities were the highlight for some delegates, others took pride at the chance to be involved in the historic event.

“It was a great experience to be involved in the inaugural G20 Young

Entrepreneur Summit,” said Phillip Kerr, from the U.K.-based company, Innovas Consulting Ltd. “The Summit demonstrated the critical importance of growing tomorrow’s entrepreneurs as key to the future economies of all the G20 countries.”

At a media conference on the final day of the Summit, the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry, told delegates that their hard work would be recognized by political and business leaders of the G20 nations.

“This Summit demonstrated the global nature of today’s business world and the importance of young entrepreneurs to economic recovery and sustainable growth,” Clement told the cheering, bell-ringing crowd. “It brings young entrepreneurs into the international economic discussion. We in government are listening.”

The Next Step Following the close of the G20 YES, both the G20 Finance Ministers and top business leaders from the G20 nations had the opportunity to hear the results of the Summit for themselves.

On June 26th, 2010, Vivian Prokop, chair of the G20 YES and CEO of the Canadian Youth Business Foundation, presented the results of the Summit to the G20 Business Summit (B20), a gathering of top business leaders from

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INSPIRATION the G20 countries formally requested

by Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Canadian Finance Minister Jim Flaherty. The G20 YES was also an informal discussion topic amongst the G20 Finance Ministers, with both the government officials and the business executives pledging support for young entrepreneurs and acknowledging their importance to the global economy.

Those promises will be followed up on through future meetings of the G20 Young Entrepreneurs’ Alliance and the G20 Young Entrepreneur Summits, which Prokop says will ensure the momentum achieved during the Toronto event continues to grow.

“We know that young entrepreneurs are integral to economic recovery and to driving sustainable growth in the global marketplace, “said Prokop.

“By creating a global alliance, we’ve expanded the discussion on youth enterprise and brought the importance of youth entrepreneurship to the attention of government officials and top business leaders. Working together, we can provide the support that entrepreneurs need so that they can go forward, and change the world.”

The next G20 Young Entrepreneur Summit is scheduled to take place in Nice, France, in June of 2011.

What Needs to Change?

Delegates of the G20 YES worked together to determine five key issues that G20 leaders need to focus on in order to support young entrepreneurs.

• Access to funding • Coordinated support • Entrepreneurship culture • Regulation and taxation • Education and training

Contributed by: Lori Paris CYBF – Canadian Youth Business Foundation www.cybf.ca Photo credits: CYBF

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VOLUNTEERISM

A Volunteer Project in the Chapada Diamantina Region of

Brazil

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VOLUNTEERISM

witnessed the need with their own eyes.

The books, pencils, and educational tools they were able to purchase, generated more enthusiasm from the kids in turn. Soon the project outgrew its limited capacity in the pousada, and a house of its own was needed.

Just at that time, both a run-down house behind the pousada came on the market, and a generous Dutch guest donated a substantial amount of money, enough to purchase the house and fix it up for use. Volunteerrun Projecto Casa Grande (Big House Project) has been growing ever since.

It currently caters to two groups of about 20 children, one coming in on mornings, another in the afternoons.

Volunteering

The Beginning

Development of the Project

Once British trekking guide Olivia Taylor set foot in the wooded mountains of Chapada Diamantina, she was sold on the region, and never looked back. She settled in Lençóis, a small colonial mining town about six hours driving from Salvador de Bahia, and known for its considerable wealth and fame during the height of the diamond boom of the last century.

Although it had sunk into oblivion since then, tourists started to trickle in following the founding of the Chapada National Park, Lençóis being its gateway. Recognizing a niche, Olivia opened Pousada Dos Duendes, a charming guesthouse for independent travelers of all ages. Occasionally, kids from the neighborhood would drop in to hang out with guests and staff, especially those from poor families who were left to their own devices and often had to take care of their younger siblings while their parents were out to work. Many of the kids were not attending school regularly. Or when they did during the half-day shifts of Brazil’s public school system, it seemed they were not learning all that much.

Once the idea was born to help local underprivileged children with their school work, the pousada started to receive small donations from their guests who passed through and

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“In the beginning I felt quite overwhelmed and sometimes discouraged”, admits volunteer Natalie Hoskin from the U.K., who has been working for four months in Casa Grande as part of a one year abroad requirement for her university language program. “I quickly realized that I had to give up some of my illusions and too idealistic goals I had previous to coming here. I had dreams of making big changes in the lives of these children, and motivating them to pursue a higher education.

During my time here, I have learned to see them in their own context, to set smaller goals, and to celebrate the little victories instead: empowering a boy who could not complete the alphabet past the letter e, to proudly spell and

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VOLUNTEERISM write his own name; or teaching a girl who was not able to count past three without skipping to ten, to properly add and subtract small numbers.”

The Children of Casa Grande Adds volunteer Mariana Ruggieri, a university student from São Paulo: “We have also learned not to ask too many questions when children return after a hiatus of a few weeks, but simply provide a safe place where they can forget at least for a few hours about some of their difficult life circumstances or the work they have to do to supplement the family income.

There are a lot of bruised kids here, and obviously they do not always have their bad behavior in check. But usually they are also very needy and starving for some attention.” The reality is that children here often start working at a very young age, first by helping their parents at home or on their jobs, and later by using their entrepreneurial skills on the street or along the many hiking trails around Lençóis by selling snacks, or ice cream and cold drinks from a cooler.

taken on another meaning. It may now also include basic hygiene rules for kids from homes with inadequate bathroom facilities, who come in dirty or don’t brush their teeth, for instance. Each child participating in the project has their own toothbrush that stays in the house. “Progress” may also entail instilling respect for people or other living creatures in children who have had to take care of themselves from very early on and mainly spend their time in the streets where they learn to swear, fight with each other, or play cruel games with animals.

Extra-Curricular Activities Dan Sgalia, a recent graduate from Vermont who volunteered here in a previous gap year and has now returned to Lençóis to take on a managerial role in the pousada, says: “Concepts such as a sense of pride and ownership are pretty alien to the children of Casa Grande. We have tried to get them involved in doing something for the project, like helping to paint the house. Or we organize ‘clean up the litter’ days in the streets of Lençóis to foster some respect for their surroundings. We also try to

“Progress” These days, homework has somewhat taken a back seat at Casa Grande, and “progress” has gradually

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What she has found most gratifying of all, however, is the fact that she could give love to children who don’t receive it at home. “It will be very hard to part from them,” she concludes, “and although it was a pretty demanding job and I had to learn a lot as I went along, I would not like to have missed a second of it. It has been an absolutely invaluable and life-changing experience for me, and my view on life is now totally different from what it was before.”

Plans for the Future

For More Information

In the meantime, founder Olivia Taylor is not sitting still. Her wish list for Casa Grande keeps growing as the project advances. First of all, she is in the process of developing closer ties with the schools in Lençóis, in order to make the classes in Casa Grande more focused. She is also hoping they can soon afford a permanent, paid staff member—ideally someone familiar with Brazilian culture, and with the challenges in the Chapada region in particular. “It is important for the kids of Casa Grande to have a stable person in their lives when there is already so much instability. Therefore, we also prefer to have volunteers who can stay here for longer periods of time.” Thirdly, when enough funding becomes available, Olivia would like to start providing food, as many children’s diets are limited to rice, beans, and cheap sweets only. And last, but not least, there is a plan to buy an adjacent lot and create a playground, a garden, and an area to raise some animals.

Pousada dos Duendes/Casa Grande: Alto das Estrelas, Lençóis (Bahia), Brasil 4690-000, info@pousadadosduendes.com, www.pousadadosduendes.com/ casagrande, Tel. 75 3334 1229.

Any donation is welcome at: www.justgiving.co.uk.

For prospective volunteers who need to improve their knowledge of Portuguese (a reasonable command of the language is required for volunteering at Casa Grande): Escola de Português IDIOMA, Rua Greenfeld 46 (Barra), Salvador de Bahia, www.portugueseinbrazil.com or contact@portugueseinbrazil.com, Tel. 71 3267 7012. The school provides both individual and group classes, and can be started on any given Monday.

VOLUNTEERISM

make the program more fun with the limited means we have available. For instance, we instituted ‘Friday Fun Days’ for every student who comes in at least three times a week. We do art activities, offer capoeira dance classes, make bread, or organize trips to the river. When I remember the things I did as a kid and look at the differences these made to my life, I can only hope that I have brought some more perspective, motivation, knowledge, or joy to some of the kids here”.

Contributed by: Lies Ouwerkerk is originally from The Netherlands, and currently resides in North Hatley, Quebec. She works as a columnist for The Sherbrooke Record, and as a freelance writer and photographer for various travel magazines.

Photo credits: Lies Ouwerkark

Benefits For Natalie Hoskin, who will soon return to Great Britain, the gains of volunteering here have far outweighed the costs. An avid hiker, she has had the opportunity to partake, at a very reasonable price, in the many outdoor activities that the pousada organizes for its guests, from trekking and mountain biking to horse riding and kayaking. The pousada has a team of very knowledgeable and experienced guides to explore the splendid nature around Lençóis with its mountains, peaks, woods, rivers, waterfalls, and caves. A big bonus has also been the fact that the project does not charge a fee, and provides meals and lodging.

And of course, Natalie brought her already existing knowledge of the Portuguese language to near perfection during her stay in Lençóis.

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