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I Took A Gap Year After High School To Study Abroad. Here’s Why.

Posted on by Liyana

Taking A Gap Year: How I Made It To Study Abroad Right After High School

I decided to study abroad right after graduating from high school.  

Truthfully, I had no idea what I wanted to study. I didn’t want to give the impression that I was not spending my summer holidays productively, plus I needed some time to really think about my future.  

So, I opted for a gap year. 

A gap year is a year-long break that students take between the end of high school and starting college. It is a great option to gain new experiences and travel, work, or explore personal interests before continuing your studies.  

For someone like me who remained undecided about my future, taking a gap year was actually the break I needed. Without the pressure to make a quick decision, I would have enough time to invest in myself and explore other alternatives.  

My Gap Year Decision: Volunteering Abroad 

The first thing that came to my mind was to volunteer overseas. I had always aspired to help the local community somehow, and this was my chance! 

While I was looking up volunteer programs online, I came across an academy that sparked my interest with these programs; I could choose to help set up housing for the local community in Peru, or teach English as a foreign language to young children in Switzerland. Since I was more confident in my English-speaking skills, I decided to go with the latter. I enquired with the university about these programs, and in no time, they connected me to a counsellor.  

I told the counsellor about my decision to take a gap year and seek out opportunities for personal development. Upon hearing my interest to teach English abroad, she recommended I take a TEFL certificate (Teaching English As A Foreign Language).

Volunteers taking a gap year to help the poor.

She explained that this certificate would prepare me to understand the aspects of becoming a teacher abroad while experiencing a different way of life. I would learn how to plan lessons, manage the classroom, and accommodate to each student’s learning ability. As a teacher, I had a chance to make a real difference in the lives of these students. Also, did I mention this job was paid? Not only could I gain experience overseas, but I would be paid for it! 

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Volunteering In Switzerland 

My time in Switzerland was an eventful and productive one.  

I was assigned as a junior teacher to teach English at a summer camp for young children aged between 6 to 14 years old. The summer camp was basically a holiday program for kids to experience a variety of sports, language and outdoor activities, so their schedule was pretty packed.  

In one day, I would be teaching 3 to 4 sessions of English to the students before accompanying them to their next class. Since the camp was mostly run by volunteers, I had to pitch in to help with the cooking and cleaning from time to time. It was there that I discovered a newfound respect for the other volunteers, because they were so dedicated in their tasks that they didn’t mind putting in extra effort to ensure the students would have an enjoyable experience.  

Sleepless nights were common, because we had to wake up earlier than the students to prepare breakfast and materials. One time, the teacher in charge of physical activity got injured, so I had to take over for a while. Trying to instruct a bunch of hyperactive kids in the morning to follow exercise routines was not an easy task, I assure you!

Aside from teaching, I also spent time baking sweet goodies for everyone. The children particularly enjoyed the peanut butter cookies I often prepared for their evening snack. Watching them savor the cookies and ask for more made me realize something I never felt before—a deep sense of fulfilment.  

I had discovered what I wanted to pursue.  

Choosing To Study Culinary Arts 

The volunteer program only lasted for three weeks, but to me, it felt like a lifetime. I had gained new experiences and the time I spent with these amazing people changed me. I had gained a new sense of confidence and felt empowered to make a decision for my future. My family was pretty surprised when I said I wanted to stay in Switzerland.  

I had made up my mind to study Culinary Arts. I had learned so much about the country during my time here, that it felt like a waste to go back without trying to learn even more. I talked to my education counsellor about the choices I could go for. I had my sights set on the Swiss Education Group, a prestigious school in Switzerland that held the Top 10 rankings in the world for their subjects in Culinary Arts.  

I needed to apply for another student permit to extend my stay in Switzerland, but the approval heavily depended on my acceptance to the institution. My counsellor was extremely helpful in the process, giving me the best tips to write my personal statement and compiling all the relevant documents. If it wasn’t for her, I doubt I could have submitted my application on time!

That Fateful Day 

I still remember the day the news arrived.  

I was in the kitchen trying out a new recipe, when the phone rang. It was my counsellor on the other side, waiting to inform me of my application status. I still hear those words in my head as clear as day. 

“Congratulations, you’ve been accepted as a student at the Culinary Arts Switzerland Academy!” 

My reaction when I found out I was accepted into the university after a gap year.

It turned out that my volunteer experience was a huge reason they decided to accept my application. I showed initiative, ambition and passion in my work, and these were the exact qualities they wanted to see in potential students. I was ecstatic with joy! 

My decision to take a gap year and volunteer abroad was not in waste. In fact, it proved to be the turning point in which I found my passion and discovered new things about myself. I was able to take a step forward and make a decision that would change my life.  

If I can, you can do it too! 

Want to experience the incredible potential of studying abroad?  

Drop a message to +60 11-2069 9087 or email us at [email protected]. The counsellors will be more than happy to answer any questions you have! 

Tee May

Tee May

Teemay is a content writer who relishes telling a good story as much as she enjoys reading one. A fan of fantasy and time travel lore, she indulges herself with quaint daydreams of living in a vintage cottage settled deep in the woods. She hopes to achieve this one day, or may just settle with a treehouse instead. In her free time, she practices amateur astrology and interprets birth charts. These started out as a hobby for ‘fun’, but they come close to being obsessions these days.

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Foreigner Living In Malaysia — Student Gets Real About Her Experience

Posted on by Liyana

Foreigner Living In Malaysia — Student Gets Real About Her Experience

“Malaysia, of all places?”

My friends remarked when I told them that I would be living in Malaysia for the next 3 years.

“Why not?” I replied.

I wanted my college years to be filled with new adventures and challenges. I knew I wouldn’t gain the same satisfaction if I had remained in Ireland. Since young, I had travelled to several Asian countries, but Malaysia left a lasting impact. From its friendly, multiracial locals to beautiful rain forests and tropical beaches, living in Malaysia was the perfect plan for a globetrotter like me. I wanted to go back to experience more of what the country could offer.

So, I decided to pursue my degree fully in Malaysia.

Aerial night view of KLCC and KL Tower 

Image source: Unsplash

I Thought Living In Malaysia Was A Good Idea 

Upon research, I discovered that higher education in Malaysia typically costs lower compared to European countries. A degree in Malaysia costs between 1,350 to 9,300 EUR a year, which I thought was quite decent judging by their impressive global university rankings. With 5 universities that made it to the top 200 of QS World University Rankings 2021, the country’s higher education quality and cost for international students seemed promising.

Growing up in Ireland, my parents have always encouraged me to value education and be adventurous. I enjoyed learning from experience, which was why I liked the outdoors and enjoyed being surrounded in nature. Later on, my love for nature led to a passion for videography and filming. In fact, it had led me to choose my dream major — Media Studies, a branch of Communication — at HELP University.

After deciding on a course, it was time to face the tedious process of applications. I had searched for an agency in Malaysia to help with my applications, but none of them could provide me the information I needed. I was about to give up and apply directly to the university myself when I stumbled on a blog about applying for a Student Visa in Malaysia. It was posted by Eduloco, a student recruitment and study abroad agency, that offered free consultations as well as application services.

I was in luck! I contacted a counsellor an received a reply soon after. She was patient and helpful along the way. I only needed to submit my documents to her, and the rest was history!

Living In Malaysia With The Locals

My student life at HELP University was nothing short of fun. I made friends right after orientation and they were excited to bring me around. At one point, my Malaysian friends seemed intrigued whenever I spoke, asking me to repeat the same words over and over again. (Could it be my accent?).

I was pleasantly surprised at how well they could speak English, although I noticed that they had a tendency to add lah, ah, and mah at the end of their sentences. Mei Lee, one of my Malaysian friends, said that it was a Malaysian thing. It took me a few months to get used to their accent and lingo, but I noticed that the locals sounded friendlier and warm when they spoke in this manner. I even begun using Manglish myself. Very easy lah. Manglish only mah!

Food Is Way Better Here

Food Is Way Better Here

Malaysian foods were so different from Irish dishes. Everything here was flavourful and rich in taste. The seasonings were a tad bit too spicy, but I adjusted quickly and learned to enjoy spicy dishes like nasi lemak, chicken rendang, and asam laksa.

The Kuala Lumpur campus was surrounded by food stalls, trucks, and eateries. The variety of delicacies was endless; I never ran out of choices when it came to lunch! The food here was cheap too. I could easily get a hearty meal at approximately 2 – 6 EUR per meal.

 

Living In Malaysia Equals Year-Round Summer

Living in Malaysia with year round summer. Image source: Unsplash

Another thing I noticed while living in Malaysia was the heat. It was summer all year long, with an average temperature between 30 and 34 degrees Celsius. I admit — I really missed the cool, mellow Irish climate so much that I wanted to stay in my room all afternoon.

No wonder Malaysians love spending time in air-conditioned shopping malls and eateries! Additionally, you wouldn’t want to be outdoors when thunderstorms happen. They’re terrifying! In fact, there is an average of 240 days of thunderstorms per year in Klang Valley itself.

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I Appreciate My Surroundings Better After Living In Malaysia

My course was mostly hands-on, so I was often outdoors filming videos and taking photos for assignments. I had the privilege of travelling around Malaysia for a group project, and it was one of the best experiences for me.

Visit stunning beaches while living in Malaysia. Image source: Unsplash

Malaysia’s wealth of flora and fauna never ceased to amaze me. I had been to various forest reserves and marine parks that were home to rare species, such as the Malayan tiger, orang-utan, tapir, and even the corpse flower, Rafflesia. My group documented our experience, and the video was even nominated for a national short video competition! Here are some destinations that we’ve visited:

  • Pulau Payar Marine Park, Langkawi, Kedah
  • Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary, Pahang
  • Entopia Butterfly Farm, Penang
  • Semenggoh Nature Reserve, Sarawak

Orang-utan in Semenggoh Nature Reserve, Sarawak 

Image source: Unsplash

Living in Malaysia, I noticed that the locals living outside urban areas were laid back and carefree. I had always preferred dining at small coffee shops and food stalls as the food tasted better than their commercialized counterparts in the mall. Therefore, I frequently made small talks with the owners and was humbled by their preference for simplicity.

“My children are well-fed, educated, and happy. What more do I need?” a makcik (aunty) noted, with a broad smile on her face.

This had led me to better appreciate the little things in life.

As an Irish girl living in Malaysia, there were times when I felt homesick and just wanted to leave. However, the positivity of my experience always outweighed my reasons to return home. The most important lesson was to be open-minded and accepting of the different cultures and lifestyle in Malaysia.

I’ve learned so much about the importance of respect and understanding from the multiracial community in Malaysia. My personal growth has also improved with each challenge, which prompted me to conquer my fears and insecurities of living independently in the country. Now, I’m proud to say that Malaysia is my second home!

Are you preparing for university? Check out these articles from Eduloco to find what you need.

Jocelyn Cheng

Jocelyn Cheng

Jocelyn Cheng (JC) is an INFP writer seeking to spread inspiration and spark connections through her words. Her dedication to writing has gifted her with an ability to write for multiple platforms (e.g., website, social media, newspaper, magazine, etc) in different fields, namely Education, Travel, and Healthcare. JC personalizes her works by adding a touch of her own experience into the mix whenever she can to relate to her readers. A self-proclaimed poet and currently a freelance writer, she's working on an untitled poetry book at home while juggling between writing for Eduloco, dancing, and keeping her only plant alive.

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Study Abroad Perks & How To Guarantee Your Spot

Posted on by Liyana

Study Abroad Perks & How To Guarantee Your Own Spot

Your study overseas is worth every penny.

Image source: Pexels

When you study abroad, you experience better personal growth. Sure, studying abroad and navigating the unknown may seem like a risky business to a college freshman. However, you will be surprised by how much you can change.  

Surrounding yourself with different cultures, people, and surroundings gives you important life lessons that you can carry into adulthood and working life. You learn to be understanding and respectful of people’s differences, making you an open-minded individual. 

 

Better Career Opportunities From Your Study Experience 

Your experience abroad makes a striking resume. Your overseas degree may increase your chances of getting hired compared to having a local degree. Based on a study about the effects of traveling abroad on college students by Erasmus Student Network, up to 64% employers noted that an overseas experience is a vital component in recruitment. Additionally, your international experience gives an impression that you have a strong global network, and are confident at taking risks and facing new challenges.

 

Study With Peers From All Over The World 

Exploring new environments in a different country feels amazing. However, it can be better — with friends! Your housemates and course mates will most likely be your temporary family when you study abroad. 

Have multiracial friends as you study overseas. Image source: Pexels

I’ve lived with an Indonesian roommate during my college days. The amount of fun we’ve had together was endless. From shopping to going on backpacking trips, the time we spent together bonded us. Now, she’s like a sister to me, despite being thousands of miles apart! 

The point is: having international friends simply makes everything better. 

As you meet new people from different parts of the world, you will learn about their background and culture. You might even be able to pick up a new language or two from them! Friends from your host country will introduce you to the lesser-known tourist attractions, making your stay abroad even more exciting! 

 

Ideal Destinations To Study Abroad 

If you plan to study abroad but couldn’t decide on a destination, here are some places that offer quality overseas degrees: 

1) United Kingdom (UK) 

The UK is not all about fish and chips or the iconic Big Ben, seriously. British universities are renowned for their high standards and extremely competitive admissions by local and international students alike. With more than 100 higher education institutions that offer numerous undergraduate and post-graduate programs, the UK is one of the best destinations for a quality overseas degree.

Study in the UK surrounded by beautiful architecture. Image source: Pexels

UK universities are also well-known for their impressive architecture, such as the University of Cambridge, University of Aberdeen, Oxford University, and Aberystwyth University, to name a few. Studying in Romanesque-style stone buildings surrounded with grassy knolls and lush trees certainly makes your student experience a memorable one. 

Check out this student’s experience of studying in the UK here. 

 

2) Switzerland 

Known globally for its Tourism and Hospitality Management courses, Switzerland has so much to offer. 

First of all, forget your assumptions about the expensive living costs of Switzerland. This student came from a middle-class family, and she could study there while keeping up with her yearly travel plans in Switzerland and other parts of Europe! You can read about her story here.

Study in the clean and safe Switzerland. Image source: Pexels

Swiss towns and cities are international student-friendly. You can easily find another foreign student around the corner! Switzerland is very clean and safe with extremely low crime rates, which is why the country is a popular choice among international students.

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3) Canada 

The kindness of Canadians isn’t just a rumour. As one of the best places to live in the world, international students can easily make Canada their second home. Canadians are generous and welcoming of people from different parts of the world, so they’ll be more than happy to see you too!

Study in Canada for a wholesome student experience. Image source: Pexels

Canada is an ideal place for international higher education as it values the importance of education among its students.  

In fact, more than half of the Canadian population owns a degree! Their education system is unique yet effective. Canadian higher education institutions are among the pioneers that broke away from traditional grading systems.  

Instead, they highly encourage students to participate in extracurricular activities that involve the community. This creates a holistic education that allows students to absorb knowledge while gaining valuable skills and applying them in daily life. 

 

4) Malaysia 

Looking for an affordable degree in Asia? Look no further. Malaysia offers an array of high-quality degrees to international students seeking to experience a multiracial environment. About 50 – 60% of Malaysians are fluent English speakers, making it easier for international students to adapt to Malaysian lifestyle.

Study in Malaysia and experience the multicultural environment. Image source: Pexels

You can also study for an overseas degree in Malaysia.  

Educational institutions in Malaysia are known for their international partnerships with the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and Switzerland. Getting your overseas degree in Malaysia could save you a lot of money, which you can use to travel around Malaysia during semester breaks!  

There are tonnes of tourist attractions for you to discover, from scenic beaches to impressive caves and mountains. Besides, the year-round tropical climate means you don’t need your bulky winter jacket! 

 

How To Study Abroad? 

Before you experience the pleasures of studying abroad, you first need to go through the application process. 

First of all, decide what and where you want to study. Make sure to do your research before you come to a decision, as studying abroad is a big commitment that involves time and a large sum of money. To begin with, we recommend you to choose a course that suits your personality! It is best to have a few options as your plan B in the events of the university rejecting your application, which can happen if you’re not prepared. 

Next, you should find out about the entry requirements of your desired universities. Do keep in mind that some places require a language certificate. Most universities require a personal statement to evaluate your application, so put in effort to write an impressive one! 

Your Student Visa takes some time for application and approval, so it is best to prepare and submit your documents early to avoid delays. Some of the documents you need are a copy of your passport, health declaration form, proof of enrolment, a statement of purpose, financial proof, and a language certificate (if required). 

We understand that it is a tedious process, so we’re offering to help you, with absolutely no charges! 

  

Your New Adventure Can Come True With Eduloco 

We are a team of passionate people from different parts of the world seeking to help you achieve your higher education goals. At Eduloco, we provide consultations to help students decide on their course and university. Our counsellors are trained professionals equipped with the latest updates of the education systems around the world. 

Trust us when we say you’re in good hands. 

We can guide you to choose your course while considering your budget, preferences, and personal interests to ensure you receive what you deserve. We also help you with university and Visa applications for free.  Just send us your documents and wait for the good news!  

Kickstart your journey with Eduloco today! You can book a virtual consultation with us, or contact us at +011-2069 9087 / enquiry@eduloco.com and we’ll get back to you soon! 

Jocelyn Cheng

Jocelyn Cheng

Jocelyn Cheng (JC) is an INFP writer seeking to spread inspiration and spark connections through her words. Her dedication to writing has gifted her with an ability to write for multiple platforms (e.g., website, social media, newspaper, magazine, etc) in different fields, namely Education, Travel, and Healthcare. JC personalizes her works by adding a touch of her own experience into the mix whenever she can to relate to her readers. A self-proclaimed poet and currently a freelance writer, she's working on an untitled poetry book at home while juggling between writing for Eduloco, dancing, and keeping her only plant alive.

Are you interested to study in abroad?

Please fill up the form and our conselors will get back to you shortly.

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Eduloco: A Beacon of Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion in the Tech Sector

Tech companies must prioritize diversity, equality, and inclusion to fully realize the industry’s potential. Systemic biases have led to historic exclusion of underrepresented groups, creating a vicious cycle of limited opportunities. Actionable strategies are needed to promote diversity, equality, and inclusion beyond hiring, such as creating equitable opportunities for all. These measures don’t just benefit individual employees but the business as a whole.

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September 19, 2023
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Migrate To Study Abroad: 5 Tried-and-True Steps

Posted on by Liyana

Migrate To Study Abroad: 5 Tried-and-True Steps

You want to study abroad, but don’t know where to start.

Don’t worry, you’re not alone! We understand your confusion. With so much information online, you just don’t know which way to follow.

We have created a comprehensive guide with effective ways that help you migrate to study abroad.

Studying abroad requires students to migrate to a foreign country Image source: Pexels

1) Migrate Through A High School Study Abroad Program

This program gives you an early exposure to living abroad. A common trend among seniors, the high school study abroad program serves as a ‘trial session’ for those who still have dilemmas about getting their degree abroad.

Studying abroad in your high school years gives you a peek into international education, cultural differences, and independent living. The experience gives you a better perspective of the world which helps in your personal development. You also have the advantage of establishing connections with people who can assist in your application to pursue your tertiary education abroad.

2) A Student Exchange Program Helps You To Migrate Easier

The student exchange program offers you a chance to study overseas for up to a year. Here’s how it works: You will swap places with a student from the country of your choice. You will then live with a host family and learn about their traditions and customs to settle in, while the international student does the same in your home country.

This program is popular among first-year and second-year college students. Many applicants are students who want to experience studying overseas, but don’t have the budget or desire to migrate or commit staying there for too long. Yet, several of them came back satisfied, mature and independent from their experience from staying abroad. Some popular destinations are the UK, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand.

If you wish to study abroad after this brief experience, you can switch to a twinning program to spend your remaining college years abroad. This program typically allows students to spend 1 to 2 years abroad, depending on the length of their course. Keep in mind that some universities only allow students to apply for a twinning program at the beginning of their enrolment. So, make sure to do your research thoroughly!

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3) Sort Out Your Paperwork

From university applications to submitting documents for your Student Visa, the entire migrating process can be lengthy and confusing. Once you’ve decided where and what to study for your degree, it’s time think about your application. Some countries require international students to submit two applications: one for the university, and one for the course. You can find the application details on their official website, or contact the administrators for help.

As we all know, your Visa application can take months to be approved. We suggest compiling all documents in advance to avoid delays. Below are common documents you need to apply for a Student Visa:

  • Passport (valid for 6 months beyond your staying period)
  • Passport size photos
  • Proof of enrolment / Letter of acceptance
  • Statement of purpose
  • Financial proof as evidence that you are able to cover certain expenditures of your stay abroad (e.g., flight tickets, tuition and accommodation fees, living cost)
  • Health declaration form
  • *Language certificate

*You may need a language certificate if you’re studying abroad at places that require you to speak their native language. As students are required to go through a language test to obtain the certificate, it is best for you to research and prepare ahead of time.

If you’re planning to study in Malaysia, this article shows how to get your Visa approved quickly.

 

4) Apply For Scholarship & Grants

There are plenty of scholarships and grants for international students that can save you lots of money.

As there will be a tight competition for academic scholarships, it is best for you to get better grades to increase your chances of getting selected. Writing an impressive personal essay also helps you stand out better than other applicants. One good tip to nail your essay is by personalizing it instead of copying most of the content from the Internet.

 

5) Seek A Study Abroad Agency

Going through a study abroad agency eases the application and enrolment process.

Applying to universities yourself can be time-consuming and troublesome, as we’ve highlighted in an article here. Hence, an agency can get it done for you quickly and efficiently. Eduloco, for instance, is a student recruitment and study abroad agency that offers free counselling, university and Visa application, and accommodation recommendations. Our counsellors are professionally trained and equipped with the latest knowledge of university entry requirements in various countries. They will be glad to clear any of your doubts about studying abroad!

 

To book a consultation with our friendly counsellors, you can call us (+60 11-2069 9087) or send your enquiries to [email protected].

Jocelyn Cheng

Jocelyn Cheng

Jocelyn Cheng (JC) is an INFP writer seeking to spread inspiration and spark connections through her words. Her dedication to writing has gifted her with an ability to write for multiple platforms (e.g., website, social media, newspaper, magazine, etc) in different fields, namely Education, Travel, and Healthcare. JC personalizes her works by adding a touch of her own experience into the mix whenever she can to relate to her readers. A self-proclaimed poet and currently a freelance writer, she's working on an untitled poetry book at home while juggling between writing for Eduloco, dancing, and keeping her only plant alive.

Are you interested to study in abroad?

Please fill up the form and our conselors will get back to you shortly.

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Students Studying Abroad Get More Job Opportunities

Posted on by Thalia Bondoc

Students Studying Abroad Get More Job Opportunities

Studying abroad gives you a better job outlook.

Many people will say that you need to have good interview skills, showcase a diverse portfolio, or have strong connections who can recommend you for a role. While these things are important, they’re forgetting the most important thing…experience.  

To get experience, you first need a job. But to get a job, employers demand experience. What a paradox!  

At first, I thought I was trapped in this cycle as well. Somehow, I managed to find my way out of it and thought I’d share it with others who were in the same situation. Hopefully, you’ll be able to overcome it the way I did. 

students studying abroad chatting
Image source: Unsplash
Challenges Of A Job Application

Last year, I was pursuing my studies with a Diploma in Mass Communication in a local college.  

As a student majoring in Journalism, I dreamed of working in a news or media company, like Vox or New York Times. However, the field was highly competitive and many graduates were competing for the same position.  

I realized that I had to do something to stand out, so I tried looking for internship opportunities. However, many companies were cutting costs and preferred to hire interns that were willing to put up with lower pay. I refused to give up and continued sending out as many applications as possible.  

3 months later, I still couldn’t nail a job. I was forced to consider my current options; a) pick any job that came along, and endure it until I found a better opportunity. b) continue this cycle of applying and getting rejected. c) consult an education counsellor. 

I went with C.  

I didn’t want to waste any more time. Even if I did find a job, chances are I wouldn’t stay in it for long. I didn’t want to waste my hard-earned diploma drudging through a job I didn’t even enjoy. 

manager interviewing students studying abroad
Image source: Pexels
Gain International Experience By Studying Abroad
I told the counsellor about my problems and how I didn’t know if it was possible to pursue a career path I had dreamed of since my teenage years. I was worried that all the effort I put into my college years would be for nothing. Before, I truly believed that anything was possible as long as I put hard work and determination into it. Now, I wasn’t sure anymore.  She listened to all of this patiently. Then she asked if I had thought about studying abroad.  “If opportunities are limited here, look somewhere else,” she said. “I can show you a few degree courses that are in line with the career path you want.”  She continued to tell me that the process of learning never truly ends. Studying abroad would provide me with new educational opportunities, which I could use to complement my studies. This would give me an edge over others when applying for jobs.   “Employers are always on the lookout for graduates with international experience and a love for learning.”  I took her advice. I went to study abroad in Malaysia, and 3 years later, here I am.  
Studying Abroad Boosts Career Progression
I have successfully completed my Bachelor’s in Mass Communication with a major in Journalism in Taylor’s University. I made sure I did my research on the university partnerships to ensure I could get an internship that were one of my top choices.   One of them was Bernama TV, a news channel in Malaysia. Interning here opened many other doors to expand on my journalist career. As a communication graduate, I was receiving offers from Vulcan Post and SAYS, both which were top news portals that specialized in creating bite-sized information for millennials and young adults. There, I met other writers and built a network of passionate content creators. I even had a chance to cover local events. It was immensely rewarding to be doing work I enjoyed! 
communication students viewing camera
Image source: Pexels

Now, I won’t have any issues finding work no matter where I go. The world is my canvas. I’m thinking of heading to Australia next! 

If you’re looking for work experience that will take you outside your comfort zone, I definitely recommend studying abroad! The knowledge and perspective you gain really provides that kickoff you need to jumpstart your career.  

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Ideal Destination For A Better Education – Malaysia

Posted on by Thalia Bondoc

Ideal Destination For A Better Education - Malaysia

Looking for a destination to study overseas?

There is a saying “you can’t love what you don’t know.”

Well, that applies to Malaysia.

When people think of Asia, a vast array of different elements comes to mind. Rich culture and history, amazing food, bustling cities, lush green tropics, amazing shopping, and dirt-cheap prices… the list goes on.

But when you thumb through the various countries nestled into the massive continent of Asia, there is one that seems to hold a ‘greatest hits’ of all the categories… Malaysia is the destination that has it all!  

A tropical destination awaits students who wish to study in Malaysia.
Image source: Canva

If you’re looking to get your higher education in Malaysia and got a little scared researching what it could be like – fear not. We did some digging ourselves and found reasons why Malaysia should be on the list for international students so that you too can make your dream come true.

In this article, we’ll present several reasons why Malaysia is a great study destination for international students. Let’s get started! 

Question of the day: What makes Malaysia so enticing to students from all over the globe? We’d say, the low living costs!  

#1 Strategic Destination With Low Living Costs 

Yes, you are right!

Reasonable cost of living is a major deciding factor for international students in choosing Malaysia as their preferred destination in furthering their higher education. While your actual cost of living will depend on the geographical location of your university and your personal lifestyle, there is not much to worry about.

Buckle up, folks! Now we’re taking you on an interesting journey! 

Students will be pleased to know that Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital, has been ranked as one of the least expensive cities in the world to live in. A survey on the ‘Most Affordable Cities for Students between 2016 and 2018’ by QS University Ranking found that “Kuala Lumpur has received a good score for affordability, with a combination of low living costs and relatively low tuition fees”.

Amazing, isn’t it?  

Three multiracial college students smiling.
Image source: E2 Study Solutions

This shows that the city is well-suited for students who are looking for an affordable living environment. To make it realistic, here we make a rough calculation; for most students, a monthly budget of RM2000 (US$500) will provide them with a comfortable living in Malaysia as the total expenditure for accommodation – either on-campus or off-campus – is cheap.

Sounds too good to be true, right? But that’s what Malaysia has got to offer to you. 

#2 Affordable Study Destination With Reasonable Tuition Fees 

Many people shy away from applying for university in the country because they feel that the tuition fees might be too high for international students.

Well, the truth is that studying in Malaysia is considered inexpensive when compared to the other study destinations around the world. We know for sure that students will always choose reasonable universities to further their study (been there, done that!).  

Choosing the cheapest universities in the country is an excellent option for those looking for an affordable education as an international student. So, here in Malaysian universities, professional degrees such as MBA (Master of Business Administration) and MBSS (Bachelor of Medicine Bachelor of Surgery) for example, can be obtained by paying low tuition fees. (Please bear in mind that these figures change according to your programme or course of study, so the numbers here are an average).

The cost of tuition fees is affordable enough and with proper planning, students can make preparations for their studies in Malaysian universities. Think you can’t afford higher education in Malaysia? Think again. 

Malaysian mosque amidst greeneries.
Image source: World Scholarship Forum

#3 Variety Of Foods 

With roots and influences from the Chinese, Indians, and even British colonialists, Malaysia is one of the world’s greatest melting pot.

The entire world – its influences, ancient features, and modern touches – are all tucked inside this eclectic country. And with a true cultural melting pot comes…. food!  

Delicious nasi lemak makes Malaysia the ideal destination for foodies.
Image source: The Culture Trip

If you need more reason to love Malaysia, there is the abundance of gastronomic delights – with thousands of hawker stalls, cafes, and restaurants serving every imaginable type of delicacies, tantalizing Asian cuisine, and bustling night markets that remain open until the wee hours of the morning. This is perfect for students who want to hang out with their friends or to de-stress. Not to mention there are a lot of choices to choose from.

The diversity of Malaysia enriches its foods and flavour. There is no other country that creates unique dishes such as roti canai, nasi lemak, and nasi ayam. When you blend Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisine together, gastro perfection is inevitable! Without a doubt, Malaysia has one of the top cuisines in the world due to incredible taste and extremely excellent value. Trust us, there will be no days of you starving as everything is here (you name it, we have it!). 

Now, Malaysia has a place in your mind, right? Hurry up and pack your things, Malaysia here I come! 

Petronas Twin Towers is a famous travel destination for international students.
Image source: Britannica

We know that studying abroad can be a slightly daunting experience, but the reward in terms of education and personal development can also be huge.

Low living costs, affordable tuition fees, and variety of foods are some of the many reasons why you could consider making Malaysia your study abroad destination.

Experience a cutting-edge Malaysian education and get ready for a world of learning and career opportunities in a safe, welcoming environment. Start your Malaysian dream today! 

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