AUGUST
India's Counselling Newsletter
2023
The New Silicon Valley
In Upstate New York
Featured Articles
Editorial Board
03
Reshaping Innovation: CHIPS Act Sparks
Global Semiconductor Boom
Girish Ballola
Forging Global Innovation through Collaborative
Semiconductors.
By Denver D'souza
Founder and CEO of Gen Next Education
Jesus Lal
Chairman, Universal Education
05
Lights, Dreams, Action! Muhlenberg's
Theatre Adventure
Where Theatre Dreams Take Flight
By Devika Agarwal
Joan Liu
Founder of Second Chance
Neeraj Mandhana
Independent Education Consultant
08
PhD Adventures: Conquering Obstacles
on the Academic Odyssey
5 Challenges You Will Face While Pursuing A PhD
By Pranav Mehta
11
Mastering Knowledge: Dive Deep with
Cornell College's Block Plan
One Course At A Time Approach.
By Marie Schofer
13
AI and Liberal Arts: A Dynamic Duo for
Success
Elevating the Liberal Arts Experience.
By Matthew Malatesta.
15
Deciding Your D-School Major - Part 2
Initial steps to help a student narrow down to 1-2
disciplines within art and design.
By Harsimran Juneja
18
Unlocking Success: AP US History
Your Path to Stand Out in US Higher Education
By Alix Bryant
July Issue 2023 | 2
Forging Global Innovation through Collaborative Semiconductors
By
Mr. Denver D'souza
Regional Manager, (West & South India)
Syracuse University
Denver D'souza
The CHIPS Act, officially enacted on August 9, 2022, has been formulated with
the objective of enhancing the United States' competitive edge, fostering
innovation, and reinforcing national security. This legislation is specifically
geared toward stimulating investments in domestic semiconductor
manufacturing capacity. Additionally, it aims to accelerate research and
development efforts and facilitate the commercialization of cutting-edge
technologies, including quantum computing, artificial intelligence, clean
energy, and nanotechnology. Furthermore, the act seeks to establish new
regional high-tech centers and promote the growth of a more diverse and
inclusive science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) workforce.
Within this framework, Syracuse University (alma mater of President Joe
Biden) proudly welcomed officials from Micron Technology Inc. and the
National Science Foundation (NSF), alongside U.S. Senator Charles E.
Schumer, to announce a groundbreaking partnership. This collaboration
will pave the way for the next generation of the U.S. semiconductor
industry's workforce. Syracuse University will lead a group of 21 institutions
within a body called Northeast University Semiconductor Network (NUSN).
The network includes Brown, Carnegie Mellon, Columbia, Cornell, Harvard,
MIT, NYU, Princeton, and the University of Pennsylvania, amongst others.
This network will create a robust training pipeline dedicated to nurturing
talent and expertise in the semiconductor field, specifically targeting
Central New York.
The groundwork for this initiative was laid by Micron Technology when it
revealed plans for a remarkable $100 billion semiconductor fabrication
facility very close to the campus of Syracuse University. Sanjay Mehrotra,
Micron's president, and CEO, expressed enthusiasm about the
collaboration between the US Government, NSF, and Syracuse University
to foster a diverse and dynamic STEM talent pipeline. This facility, whose
main aim will be to boost the domestic supply of cutting-edge memory
chips, will generate 50,000+ jobs, including approximately 9,000 positions
at Micron (a large majority of them being engineers, programmers, and
business managers). The primary responsibility for the recruitment efforts
of such a large STEM-skilled workforce lies with Syracuse University. In the
coming cycle, the undergraduate admissions office expects to enroll
more applicants from key international geographies such as India,
Vietnam, and South Korea.
July Issue 2023 | 3
As part of the partnership, the Micron Foundation and NSF will jointly
invest $10 million to fund and develop semiconductor curricula in
colleges and universities nationwide. The ExLENT (Experiential
Learning for Emerging and Novel Technologies) program will
support inclusive experiential learning opportunities to equip
learners with the necessary skills for success in STEM fields.
Simultaneously, the IUSE (Improving Undergraduate STEM
Education) initiative will enhance STEM teaching and learning for
undergraduate students. The Northeast University Semiconductor
Network will emphasize collaboration, innovation, and problemsolving to prepare the next generation of talent through both
traditional and nontraditional pathways into the semiconductor
industry. With a focus on inclusivity, the network will reach out to
domestic and international STEM students, expanding access to
cleanrooms, teaching labs, and experiential learning programs.
In May 2023, Micron Technology became the first US chipmaker to
be targeted by Beijing after Washington imposed a series of export
controls on certain American components and chipmaking tools to
ensure that they are not used to advance China's military
capabilities. Interestingly, Micron Technology, one of the world’s
largest semiconductor companies, announced plans to build a new
assembly and test facility in Gujarat last month. The deal with
Micron made during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to
the United States has made headlines as a major technological
breakthrough and a new dawn for India’s chip-making industry.
Phased construction of the new assembly and test facility in India is
expected to begin in 2023. Phase 1, which will include 500,000
square feet of planned cleanroom space, will start to become
operational in late 2024. Micron’s investment will be up to $825
million over the two phases of the project and will create 5,000+
new direct Micron jobs and 15,000 community jobs over the next
several years. Engineers, coders, and managers who are able to
shuttle back and forth between New York and Gujarat will be the key
to the success of both these projects.
All India Independent Education Consultants
Annual Conference
23- 25 February 2024
See you in Rajasthan!
Connect with over 30+ IECs from across India
7+ Professional Development Workshops
Fun Lights & Sound Show
Many Networking Opportunities
Want to present at our vendor fair? Email admin@ai-iec.com to learn more.
Where Theatre Dreams Take Flight
By
Devika Agarwal
Admission Officer, India Desk
Muhlenberg College, Allentown, PA
Why An International Theatre Student Must Attend Muhlenberg?
Devika Agarwal
At Muhlenberg, dreams take center stage! Imagine a place where passion for
theatre is given a versatile platform to unleash creativity & explore big show
opportunities. At Muhlenberg as a theatre major, explore an academic
program designed to provide a thorough background in the history, theory &
literature of performance, & structured studio experiences in performance &;
design. For international students, especially those hailing from countries like
India, Muhlenberg College offers study-abroad opportunities to broaden wider
horizons.
A. Cultural Exchange Carves Personal Growth!
At Muhlenberg, students from diverse backgrounds get exposure to the tapestry of cultures, ideas, &
theatrical traditions. This not only enriches their academic journey but also shapes them into a globallyaware artist. Living in a new country, challenges students to adapt, fosters independence, and cultivates
resilience. Take the love of theatre on the road! Berg has partnerships with amazing institutions all over the
world. Explore art while exploring the world! In recent years, Theatre & Dance students have attended
graduate programs including The American Conservatory Theatre, Brown University/Trinity Rep, Columbia
University, The David Geffen School of Drama at Yale, Juilliard School, The Manhattan School of Music, NYU
Tisch School of the Arts, Rutgers University, Stanford University, & Temple University.
The World Is A Canvas:
Experience some corners of the world deeply! Students take the study-abroad experience, and when they
come back, they can't stop talking (sometimes in Italian!) about what a spectacular, life-altering
experience they've had. After studying Theatre at Muhlenberg, students will be well-prepared for what
comes next - whether they want to study at the graduate level, pursue a career as a professional artist, or
contribute creative leadership in any field.
Noah Mayan Ryall, a student from Bethany Junior College in India is currently in his junior year & will
be at The Talent Academy in London in the fall semester to do an exchange program. He is excited to study
core theatre courses and learn acting techniques in Shakespeare, voice, and speech for actors, stage
performances, & theatre in London!
Ruhani Singh is an international student from India, a Theatre and Film Studies double major, President of
the International Students Association & Top Naach, Vice President of Unchained Theatre Collective.
She hopes to highlight Asian and international student issues and is so grateful to have been given this
opportunity to create art for positive change. Ruhani recently performed in 10x10 (or, The Decameron) in
Muhlenberg’s Mnemonic Festival along with Being to Becoming (Muhlenberg’s Red Door Play Festival) and
The Beauty of Being.
July Issue 2023 | 5
B. Limitless Opportunities!
The Muhlenberg Theatre &; Dance experience offers a direct learning partnership among faculty and
students—in the classroom, the studio, and the performance laboratory. Students are nurtured to succeed
and encouraged to take risks. The department offers students daily opportunities to foster the most
important goal of the liberal arts experience: the education of the whole person. Theatre & Dance faculty
and staff have developed a multi-faceted approach to education that combines exciting creative
experience with rigorous professional standards. Students are challenged as artists in the studio and the
classroom, working closely with distinguished faculty and internationally recognized guest artists to
achieve a conceptual understanding and a practical working knowledge of the performing arts.
Cutting-Edge Facilities:
With Muhlenberg’s state-of-the-art theatre facilities, from cutting-edge performance spaces to wellequipped costume and scene shops, students will have access to the latest tools and resources
needed to master their craft. Talent Insights: An audition or portfolio review is not required. Students will be
encouraged to participate in the Department's award-winning productions, exploring interests
through exciting, diverse performances from intimate black box dramas to Broadway-style musicals.
Talent scholarships in art, dance, film, music, and theatre are available. The scholarships range from
$1,000-$4,000 a year and are renewable for all four years at Muhlenberg, based on academic
performance, good campus standing, and continued participation in the arts.
Talent Insights:
An audition or portfolio review is not required. Students will be encouraged to participate in the
Department's award-winning productions, exploring interests through exciting, diverse performances from
intimate black box dramas to Broadway-style musicals. Talent scholarships in art, dance, film, music, and
theatre are available. The scholarships range from $1,000-$4,000 a year and are renewable for all four
years at Muhlenberg, based on academic performance, good campus standing, and continued
participation in the arts.
C. Graduate Placements - Gateway To Professional Theatre World!
Muhlenberg College doesn't just prepare students academically; it is working to ensure success. A few of
the many places where our students are working are: the Actors Equity Association in the United States,
Steppenwolf Theatre Company in Chicago, The Public Theater in New York City, Theatre Company,
Williamstown Theatre Festival, the prestigious summer theatre festival in Massachusetts has attracted
Muhlenberg alumni as performers, Goodman Theatre in Chicago, Guthrie Theatre in Minneapolis, one of the
nation's leading regional theatres, La Jolla Playhouse: Some alumni have worked at this renowned theatre
company in California, Theatre Communications Group. Graduates have found opportunities in various
regional theatres across the United States, including those in cities such as Philadelphia, Washington, D.C.,
and Boston.
Simply Chat With Our Alumni:
When students join Muhlenberg Theatre & Dance, they not only join a performing arts department, but
a family, and a powerful professional network, which upon graduation becomes the launching pad for
their successful career. Students continue to work together long after they walk out through the red doors.
Colleagues here are directors, casting agents, producers, and fellow performers of the future, and
the connections students make on the Muhlenberg stage will be carried life-long.
Standard OPT:
International students at Muhlenberg receive comprehensive guidance on Optional Practical Training
(OPT). This means they can gain valuable real-world experience in the United States for up to 12 months
after graduation, setting up the path to a thriving theatre career.
July Issue 2023 | 6
Career Services Excellence:
Muhlenberg's Career Services Center is a treasure trove of resources for international theatre students.
From crafting impressive resumes to providing interview preparation, they ensure students are wellequipped to navigate the competitive job market. What's more, they connect you with industry
professionals who can open doors to exciting opportunities.
Professional Theatre Roadway:
Many alumni have secured coveted roles in esteemed professional theatre companies across the United
States and around the world. Whether their passion lies in acting, directing, stage management, or design,
Muhlenberg's rigorous training and extensive network provide the launchpad for dreams.
Educational Excellence:
Some graduates channel their love for theatre into education. Muhlenberg's comprehensive theatre
curriculum primes students for roles as educators and academics, enabling them to inspire the next
generation of artists.
Practical Journey:
The college's emphasis on practical experience extends to arts administration. Graduates have gone on to
take leadership positions, managing and promoting arts organizations on both regional and national
levels.
Professor Jeffery Goldberg from New York University, “I think a student who is considering a major in Theatre
will find that it is actually an excellent way to spend time as an undergraduate because it will give you a
360-degree understanding not just of theatre but as one prepares characters, they are going to come to
understand all walks of life & will have to throw themselves in a variety of different themes. The theatre
also contributes to the understanding of languages and soft skills like public speaking & being able to
see the world in a very unique & creative way.”
Muhlenberg Theatre graduates have left their mark on stages both large and small, across the nation. Oh!
Guess who is in the top 10% in the country for Theater? It’s Muhlenberg!
July Issue 2023 | 7
5 Challenges You Will Face While Pursuing A PhD
By
Pranav Mehta
PhD Candidate, TU Delft
A doctoral degree, commonly called a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy),
represents the highest attainable degree in the academic world. It is
a testament to an individual's intellectual prowess and unwavering
commitment to pushing the boundaries of human understanding. Or
so I thought… Based on the little experience of pursuing a PhD, I have
learnt that this program is less about an individual's intellectual
prowess but more about their resilience – the ability to constantly
deal with failure without quitting.
Pranav Mehta
Navigating Overwhelming Freedom and Structure-Less Exploration:
The shift from structured courses to a PhD program introduces a profound challenge: the
uncharted realm of open-ended exploration. Departing from textbooks and defined syllabi,
students dive into a landscape of research articles, piecing together vast knowledge fragments
like a complex connect-the-dots puzzle. Crafting an original project outline from scratch,
identifying research gaps with minimal supervision, and self-directing experiments become the
norm. The newfound autonomy, akin to being one's own boss, demands exceptional time
management and discipline. The initial excitement often wanes without proper support, leading
to difficulty staying on course. The most significant learning for a new student (especially me) in
this journey was to embrace advice and guidance from my peers, seniors, and mentors –
forming a small group of experienced researchers who would show me the way forward and help
me stand back up when I did fumble my footing.
Embracing Failure as a Stepping Stone:
"Pranav, a PhD is nothing but four years of failed research combined with one year of success.
Don't ever give up on yourself" – Anonymous senior researcher, circa 2021.
I've encountered my share of setbacks in academic pursuits and life's endeavours. Still, none
have resonated as deeply as the trials met during my doctoral journey. It could be because one's
childhood stumbles are often cushioned by family support, a luxury scarce in pursuing a PhD. It's
not that they don't wish to offer support; instead, it's the challenge of the external world to grasp
the intricacies of a doctoral candidate's life, the hurdles they face, and the failures they
encounter within the program.
July Issue 2023 | 8
This journey is a symphony of trial and error, an intricate dance of hypothesis and refinement.
Seeking opportunities within adversity, students must be willing to own their failures and be
brave enough to seek help from experts in the field. This is not always easy, as new researchers
often join with a mindset "I will have failed if I cannot do this myself" – only to realize that there
was their only failure.
Navigating Conflicts with Your Supervisor
The dynamic between PhD candidates and their supervisors presents a significant challenge.
While supervisors serve as valuable sources of guidance, conflicts can arise when their
perspectives deviate from the candidate's vision. Achieving a balance between respecting the
supervisor's experience and maintaining the drive to shape one's research becomes a delicate
task. Navigating this requires the application of tact, open communication, and the ability to
respectfully challenge ideas. It unfolds as a collaborative dance where both parties must
discover common ground, acknowledging that divergent viewpoints often ignite innovative
solutions. This interaction forms a pivotal overlap between academia and other industry
settings, urging PhD students to master the art of managing their supervisors and skillfully
advocating for their research aspirations.
Challenge 4: The 24/7 Commitment of a PhD Journey
A PhD isn't a mere 9-to-5 job; it's a relentless commitment that transcends traditional work
hours. It's a journey that accompanies you every waking hour, akin to nurturing a child.
Constant pondering, late-night breakthroughs, and early-morning insights become routine.
Balancing life outside research becomes a feat of juggling priorities. I have had weeks where I
have spent 100+ hours in my laboratory, trying to get something to work or finding solutions to
another challenge. However, I wouldn't be here if I did that every week. The key to this program
is knowing when you need to put in the hours and when you must take a step back and
practice self-care so you do not burn yourself out.
Challenge 5: The Isolation and Emotional Toll
A PhD is an enigma, part job and part education, often misunderstood by the world. This unique
nature, coupled with the odd working hours and relentless research demands, can lead to
isolation and a sense of disconnect from everyone around you. Feelings of loneliness very often
snowball into depression and burnout. Navigating this emotional terrain requires
acknowledging the challenges, seeking support from peers, mentors, or mental health
professionals, and finding ways to integrate work with a sense of community. The pursuit of a
PhD demands resilience not just in research but also in managing the emotional journey it
entails.
July Issue 2023 | 9
July Issue 2023 | 10
One Course At A Time Approach
By
Marie Schofer
Associate Director of Admission,
International Recruitment, Cornell College
Cornell College - One Course At A Time
Cornell College, a small liberal arts college located in Mount Vernon,
Iowa, has a long tradition of innovative thinking. The best example is
Cornell’s adoption of the One Course At A Time academic calendar in
1978. Since then, faculty and students have enjoyed the powerful
benefits of immersive study on the block plan schedule.
Marie Schofer
How does One Course At A Time work?
Students dedicate themselves to one 18-day course each block. There are four blocks each
semester for a total of eight blocks during the academic year. Courses meet on weekdays,
typically for three to four hours with scheduled breaks. By eliminating the disruptions of moving
between classes and resetting workspaces that occur on a semester schedule, students at Cornell
can dive deep into their subject matter without interruptions. Block courses conclude with a final
exam or culminating paper or project submitted on the final day of class. A four-day weekend,
known as a “block break,” is scheduled between blocks as a way for students to rest and recharge
before their next course.
Cornell courses are valued at four credit hours, so students earn credit at a similar pace to their
peers at institutions with semester calendars. With a focus on personalized academic advising, 91%
of Cornell graduates completed their degree in four years.
Why is One Course At A Time a great way to learn?
The One Course At A Time block schedule offers students the opportunity to focus on a single area
of study without the distraction of other classes. Professors share this singular focus in that they
only teach one course at a time. As a result, the classroom environment becomes a close-knit
learning community where meaningful and long-lasting relationships develop. The average class
size at Cornell is 16 students with a maximum capacity of 25 students. Together, students and
professors take the time to tackle subjects and engage in discussion without the need to end class
at a specific time.
July Issue 2023 | 11
Faculty utilize the flexibility of the block schedule to enhance the immersive experience through
hands-on activities, extended labs, field trips, and off-campus study. A class may watch a film in
the morning and discuss it in the afternoon. An art course can visit a local museum. Engineering
students can tour a water treatment plant. Students can travel with their class to study economics
in Shanghai, China. Month-long internships that feel like full-time jobs and research opportunities
supplement students’ classroom experiences. Through in-depth study in their courses and a wide
range of internship and off-campus study experiences, students quickly identify where their
interests lie. While students register for courses up to a year in advance, the block calendar allows
students to pivot and change their schedule at any time during the semester. Half of Cornell
students graduate with a double major or a major and a minor.
Cornell graduates report that the block schedule provides excellent preparation for the pace and
demands of both graduate studies and employment. Through the One Course At A Time block
schedule, students learn to master tight deadlines and high expectations.
July Issue 2023 | 12
Elevating the Liberal Arts Experience
By
Matthew Malatesta
Vice President for Admissions, Financial Aid and Enrollment,
Union College
Why research at a liberal arts college ?
Matthew Malatesta
Recent advances to artificial intelligence heighten the value
proposition for a liberal arts college education. But while many
international students are familiar with a university system, they
are less accustomed to the liberal arts college model, which took
root in the U.S in the 19 th century. A main tenet is that students
need both depth and breadth in their education, since their futures
are not always linear or predictable. Teaching a skill set that
enables versatility and adaptability will serve a student best for
their professional futures.
Consulting directly with artificial intelligence, ChatGPT has some of it
right. When prompted to identify the differences between the two types
of institutions, it is noted that liberal arts colleges:
“Primarily focus on undergraduate education and offer a wellrounded curriculum that emphasizes the arts, humanities, social
sciences and natural sciences.”
"Often have smaller class sizes and a strong emphasis on critical
thinking, writing, and discussion-based learning.”
“Have more opportunities for close interaction with professors,
mentoring, and collaborative learning.”
Some universities, according to ChatGPT:
"May have multiple campuses, a larger student body, and a more
diverse array of academic programs.”
“Offer a wide range of degrees, including bachelor’s, master’s,
doctoral, and professional degrees across various disciplines.”
July Issue 2023 | 13
ChatGPT doesn’t get it all right, though. It’s relative assertion that “universities often place a
significant emphasis on research, with faculty members expected to contribute to their fields
through research, publication, and scholarly activities.”
This is one of the biggest unknowns about the U.S. higher education system. Research is just as
vital at liberal arts colleges as at universities. Some of the preeminent liberal arts colleges,
including Union College, in Schenectady, N.Y., follow a scholar-teacher model. Professors are
leaders in their fields, at the forefront of the research, publications and scholarly activities
referenced above. The key distinction is that, at a liberal arts college, they are charged with
bringing that knowledge and those experiences to their classrooms (consisting of only
undergraduate students), and encouraged to involve students in this research, as soon as their
first or second year of college. It is an important distinction of a liberal arts college, and a
competitive advantage for students to get involved in that level of research to build a resume for
their future endeavors.
While the strength to the liberal arts model is the range of offerings, it is the depth that is the
underrated critical feature. Chat GPT is not alone in setting up the college search as a binary
function, i.e. do you want a research or a teaching specific focus? Liberal arts colleges are more
about a both/and orientation v. that of either/or. They can be an ideal choice for someone who
wants to do research, while being mentored and taught by a leader in that field.
Here are two students from India who highlight these liberal arts connections:
Ashlesha Bhagat, a sophomore at Union College majoring in computer science, quickly assumed
the role of Collaborative Robotics and Computer Human Empirical Testing (CROCHET) Lab
Manager. She facilitated human-computer interaction projects and networked with engineering
students. Through a summer research fellowship, she honed her skills and broadened her network
as the treasurer of the Association of Computer Machinery-Women (ACM-W) chapter. Her
accomplishments within a year underscore the untapped potential for the future.
Meesha Gupta, a 2021 electrical engineering and mathematics graduate from Union College,
exemplified leadership through her roles with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
(IEEE) club and other projects, including one focused on 3D printing prosthetics for children in
need. A paid summer research project in signal processing laid the foundation for her senior
thesis, while her involvement with the Admissions Office enhanced her communication and
professional skills. Meesha’s career at Morningstar, an investment research company based in
Chicago, I.L., reflects the fusion of technical and soft skills, cultivated through her STEM and liberal
arts education. Meesha credits “the exploratory mindset I gained at Union” as the launch pad of
her career at the intersection of finance and technology.
Ashlesha and Meesha are just two examples of the types of students who can thrive at a liberal
arts college. Artificial intelligence grows every day; perhaps soon it will catch up to the full
potential of the liberal arts college model!
July Issue 2023 | 14
Initial steps to help a student narrow down to 1-2 disciplines within art and design.
By
Harsimran Juneja
Founder, Unolona Academy
Harsimran Juneja
If you have been able to guide a child through some – if not all – of the things
mentioned in Part I, then in all likelihood, you have been able to narrow down
choices to 1-2 disciplines within the gamut of creative careers. More often than
not, when you are able to narrow it down to that level, the next step that comes
into play is choosing relevant courses. Now each discipline has a range of
courses available to study at an undergrad level. So how do you choose which
course might be the best? Well, for starters, it is advisable to choose a generic
course at an undergrad level that may allow a child to venture through
multiple areas within that discipline.
For instance, if you have been able to narrow down a child’s interest areas to fashion communication or
graphic design, then consider courses in graphic design or visual communication (viz-com). A viz-com
course will cover things like branding, marketing, motion design, UI / UX etc. which may equip a child with
skills that may be transferrable to various industries let alone fashion. It may allow more room for
experimentation and exploration. Within the viz-com course, the child may choose to work on fashionoriented projects should the course be able to accommodate it. Generally, courses in universities abroad
offer that kind of flexibility.
At this particular stage, you can also consider involving a mentor from the art / design background to help
you out with a student’s case. Practicing artists or designers who are connected to academia may be able
to offer insights into programs that may help you as a consultant to advise your students. So, reach out to
academies or institutes, connect with people on LinkedIn or even your friends / families when necessary.
Let the students dig
Once you’ve recommended a few courses (keep the selection broad), let the students dig into these
courses by themselves. Suggest a few colleges with these courses and ask the students to begin by
reading up on the curriculum. Most colleges publish a detailed curriculum and going through it will
enlighten one on what s/he may be studying for the next 3-4 years should s/he choose that course.
Furthermore, encourage students to attend any events that a college might do wherein theycan learn
more about the course or the studying experience at that college. Help them find ways to connect with
current students from their universities of choice and let them engage in conversation about the course,
the college life, the city and more. A decision to study at a college is influenced by several factors apart
from just the course and its curriculum.
July Issue 2023 | 15
Collate all the information
When you put together the information and knowledge that you have gathered along with that of a
student’s, you’ll realize that choosing a course or a college becomes much simpler. A process that you may
perhaps be following for several other disciplines too. Nevertheless, there are instances where none of this
works. Where you have perhaps not had enough time to filter out courses or even allow the child the time
to do his/her own research into colleges. In such cases, keep it open. Let the student walk into a college
undecided and enroll into a foundation course. But follow the college-choosing process even for
foundation programs for not all are broad in terms of subject exploration.
Consider the new
Design education now also offers a choice between theory and practice. Occasionally, you may find that a
student is inclined towards the creative careers but does not perhaps enjoy the practical side of it. Not all
are keen on working with hands, with materials or with tools to design something from scratch. Some are
perhaps more oriented towards thinking like a designer and operating in a process that is akin to
designers. In such cases, courses like Design Management, Service Design, Experience Design etc. may be
options to consider.
Some other alternative courses
Creative Computing (science x design)
Creative Robotics (science x design)
Culture, Criticism and Curation (humanities x art)
Fashion Imaging and Illustration (2D design x fashion)
Fashion Styling and Production (3D design x fashion)
Interaction Design Arts (science x design)
Art Direction (humanities x art)
Business, Design and Technology (science x business x design)
Psychology of Fashion (humanities x fashion)
Design for Climate Justice (humanities x design)
Immersive Media and Mixed Reality (science x design x art)
Design History and Practice (humanities x design)
Integrated Design (humanities x design x art)
Additional suggestions
The suggestions I make below are very broad, but they are based on what we have experienced in the past
with our students at the academy. It is advisable that you consult a professional mentor from the art and
design fields to validate some of your observations and matching course suggestions.
July Issue 2023 | 16
Note: This table is not definitive and not backed by any science. It is subjective and purely based on
observations made about some of the students I have worked with in the past at Uno Lona Academy. The
suggested directions are merely broad starting points. Steps mentioned in Part I would then help narrow
these directions down further.
As education consultants or counsellors, you perhaps deal with hundreds of students and hundreds of
different colleges and courses. It is nearly impossible to know about every discipline or subjects thoroughly,
regardless of how often you may have dealt with some of them. Education is continuously evolving and the
career landscape is constantly changing. What I have mentioned above will change sooner or later. But the
fundamentals may remain the same. And through these two parts on guiding a student towards a creative
career, I hope you are able to add value to your students as well as your practice.
July Issue 2023 | 17
Your Path to Stand Out in US Higher Education
By
Alix Bryant
Founder, International Student Association of America
Unlocking Opportunities: Why AP US History is Invaluable for Indian
Students Seeking American Higher Education
Alix Bryant
In today's interconnected world, studying abroad has become an
increasingly sought-after opportunity for students worldwide, including
those from India. As Indian students aspire to pursue higher education
in the United States, it’s crucial to grasp the key elements that can
distinguish their applications and make them stand out among a
highly competitive pool of candidates.
One effective strategy to achieve this is by taking Advanced Placement (AP) courses, with AP US
History (APUSH) being a prime choice for Indian students. By undertaking the journey to
broadening their understanding of US history, Indian students can gain a competitive
advantage over thousands of international applicants.
Here's why AP US History can be a true game-changer for Indian students seeking American
higher education:
Strengthening College Applications:
APUSH helps students become the favorite applicant of many U.S. universities. In addition to
excellent grades, impressive test scores, compelling letters of recommendation, and a list of
extracurricular activities, today's college applications seek a commitment to contributing to the
college community in a positive way. Learning about American culture, history, and civics can
demonstrate that the student is prepared to navigate and engage with the complexities of a
diverse society and adapt to new environments.
Academic Rigor:
Admissions officers at US universities highly value students who challenge themselves
academically. Taking challenging courses, such as APUSH, demonstrates a student's willingness
to tackle rigorous coursework and go beyond the minimum requirements. By successfully
completing this course, Indian students can showcase their ability to handle advanced-level
material, setting them apart from their peers. Moreover, it highlights their commitment to
personal growth, providing evidence of their capability to succeed in a demanding academic
environment.
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Cultivating Critical Thinking Skills:
APUSH is designed to foster critical thinking, analysis, and the interpretation of historical events
and sources. Indian students engaging with primary and secondary materials learn to analyze
complex information, make connections, and draw well-supported conclusions. These critical
thinking skills are not only essential for success in higher education but also crucial for future
professional endeavors. By developing their ability to navigate through complex information,
Indian students can face challenges head-on and contribute to making informed decisions in
various domains.
Embracing Cultural Awareness:
Understanding the historical context that has shaped American society is crucial for Indian
students seeking to establish cultural competence. APUSH offers a unique opportunity for
students to engage deeply with the rich tapestry of American history. By exploring the
complexities and nuances of the United States' past, Indian students gain a comprehensive
understanding of the country's culture, values, and societal structures. This cultural awareness
fosters empathy, adaptability, and the ability to connect with diverse communities, enabling
Indian students to thrive in the American college community.
Potential College Credit:
Universities in the United States often offer college credits or advanced placement
opportunities for students who perform well on AP exams. Excelling in AP US History can open
doors for international students, allowing them to accelerate their academic progress and
focus on more specialized coursework earlier in their college journey. This advantage not only
saves time but also enables students to explore advanced topics and delve deeper into their
areas of interest.
In conclusion, AP US History is an invaluable asset for Indian students aspiring to pursue higher
education in the United States. By completing this course, Indian students can showcase their
commitment to personal growth, academic rigor, critical thinking, and cultural awareness.
These qualities resonate with admissions officers at US universities and distinguish Indian
applicants in a highly competitive environment. To unlock the full potential of Indian students
wishing to attend college in the US, we must encourage and support them in embracing the
opportunities offered by APUSH.
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