Student workbook for University Applications

Student Work Book for University Applications

2017 - 2018

GES Vision “Our school seeks to provide a learning environment which is caring, motivating and supportive allowing all cultures within the GES community to achieve their personal best and to become global citizens”

GES Mission • • • • •

Promote academic, social, physical and personal development in our students.

Develop our students’ learning skills which will be of lifelong value.

Encourage positive risk taking in our students.

Develop creative skills and critical awareness in our students.

Encourage our students to become aware of and act upon their responsibilities, not only to themselves and their peers, but also to society in general.

• Foster within our students a healthy sense of self-esteem and self-awareness and encourage respect and compassion for others.

• Actively promote the preservation and protection of the natural world amongst all students.

• Create programs, assessments and experiences that serve to unite the school and celebrate the distinctiveness of each campus community.

GES Core Principal Values A core value is a central belief clearly understood and shared by every member of the school community.

Our school ethos is underpinned by these core values: • Supportive • Caring • Respectful • Responsible

GES Definition of Internationalism • Internationalism at the GES encompasses global citizenship, conflict resolution, social justice, values & perception, sustainable development, human rights, interdependence and diversity.

• GES believes in reflecting and celebrating the diverse backgrounds of its community (students, staff and local community) within a safe and secure environment. All members should be enriched and affirmed by this experience and be appropriate role models for others.

A member of the GES community: • Is knowledgeable of and curious about the wider world and seeks to broaden and deepen understanding.

• Reflects upon his/her role and responsibility as a global citizen.

• Is willing and able to communicate about culture, language and beliefs.

• Is prepared to take action and to be an effective contributor.

• Respects and celebrates diversity, language, culture and beliefs.

Global Citizenship Definition: At The Gulf English School we adhere to the UNESCO Global Ci zenship aims which are to empower learners to assume ac ve roles to face and resolve global challenges and to become proac ve contributors to a more peaceful, tolerant, inclusive and secure world.

THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL Agreement between guidance counsellor and student.

Guidance Counsellors will : • Provide appointments to give careers guidance • Offer dedicated specific sessions with specific homework tasks set for every session, to match application process.

• Provide access to research resources and Naviance • Support from the library • Keep all application information securely and confidential within the counsellors office • Hand out verified final application packs for university applications.

Students will : • Attend all sessions on time • Complete all homework set • Take responsibility for university research and deadlines • Take responsibility for sending the completed applications to the relevant universities.

• Accept that any failure to attend or complete homework will result in being referred to course coordinator and head of 6th form.

Parents will : • Parents will support the student through each stage of the timeline and application process.

• Will access Naviance and Firefly to check on the students’ progress, and any other outstanding tasks • Will sign universities choices and decisions • Will encourage students to meet deadlines set by the counsellors.

• Will contact counsellors if they have any questions or concerns.

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Signed Student

Date

Signed Counsellor

Date

Signed Parents

Date

No

1 2

3

4 5

6

7 8

9 10 Appendix

Topic Student Agreement Table of contents Counsellors and Careers Guidance - Welcome Letter Session plan Timetable and contents Session 1 Careers planning /Naviance Careers planning Naviance induction Homework Session 2 University Research University research Homework - research checklist Homework - University choices and permission Session 3 Personal Essay Personal essay Do’s and Donts Homework - Personal essay Session 4 Letters of Recommendation Letters of recommendation Homework – teachers request Session 5 Standardised Tests Standarised tests SAT v ACT IELTS v TOEFL Preparing for tests Homework – standardised tests Session 6 Application process Application process Homework Session 7 Application pack supplementary evidence CV Application pack Homework - CV builder Homework - CV builder Naviance Session 8 University visits /Interviews University visits University interviews DO’s and Don’ts Homework Mock interview questions Mock interview feedback Session 9 – Results Homework - Results Session 10 – Exit interview Homework– Exit interview Useful Websites

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL

COUNSELLING AND CAREER GUIDANCE INTRODUCTION Dear Students and Parents, Welcome to your careers guidance area on Firefly. Here you will find everything you need to help you make a successful application to university.

The Gulf English School adopts a proactive strategy to support their students in Career Guidance.

Professional guidance in career and subject choices is a vital to help students achieve their career and academic goals.

This area is created to help you find the career of your choice and to help you to complete the application process to achieve the best possible application that will help you to meet the deadlines for your applications.

The area includes all the information you will require to support you to complete the activities set by the counsellors at your appointments. You will attend 1:1 appointments with your counsellor and will be given a homework activity to complete. This homework must be completed before your next session with the counsellor.

The Careers and University Guidance Counsellors are available from Sundays through to Thursdays.

Your parents are also encouraged to actively take part in the student’s university application process

Yours faithfully, Sheila Jenkins Lead Career Guidance Counsellor Sheila.jenkins@gulfenglishschool.com Telephone: 44578777 / 228

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Sajid Iqbal Career Guidance Counsellor Sam.hollis@gulfenglishschool.com Telephone: 44578777 / 278

COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE

SIXTH FORM TIMELINE Academic Year 2017/2018

Month

Action

School Role

Students Role

September 2017

Personal essay

Training by counsellors on how to write a personal essay during induction week.

English department to use lessons to complete personal essay.

Complete personal essay.

Print and sign.

Give to counsellors.

September 21st 2017

KS4 transcripts (by GES)

Co-ordinators to prepare KS4 transcripts and hand to students for checking.

Approved transcripts printed and signed and given to counsellors.

Students to check the following:

Sept/ October 2017

Careers counselling sessions

Counsellors discuss career options and ensure recommendation letter request completed

Attend sessions. Complete letters of recommendation letter request form and give to chosen subject teachers. Meet with teachers to discuss letter.

October 15th 2016

UCAS applications for medical, Law and Oxbridge

UCAS applications completed for medical, Law, Vet, and Oxbridge. All details completed checked and signed

by UCAS coordinator

Complete all required details, and pay fee to UCAS for application

Mid November 2017

Letters of recommendation

Teachers upload letters of recommendation.

Letters printed, checked, signed and given to counsellors.

To check with teachers that they have completed and uploaded the students letter of recommendation

November 2017

University application preparation

Counsellors guide students through application process

Attend minimum of 2 counselling sessions.

Complete all tasks set by agreed deadlines

December 2017

Mock examinations

Prepare for exams

Study and get ready for exams

January 2018

AS & IB2 transcripts

Co-ordinators to prepare AS & IB2 transcripts and hand to students for checking.

Approved transcripts printed and signed and given to counsellors.

Students to check the following: Name, date of birth, subjects studied, report grades, mock exam grade.

January 2018

University application

Counsellors prepare and complete university application packs.

Ensure all information provided for application packs.

Check application packs are complete.

January 15th 2018

UCAS applications

All UCAS applications must be submitted. All details completed checked and signed by UCAS coordinator

Complete all required details, and pay fee to UCAS for application

February 2018

Mock interviews

Arrange panel and interview all students. Give feedback.

Prepare for and attend mock interviews.

February 1st 2018 Northwestern University Qatar Virginia Commonwealth University Qatar Georgetown Early admission

All application packs completed with students. All applications and student recommendations collated.

Complete application process online and collect packs from assigned counsellor to hand in to relevant university.

March 2018

Counsellors meet with all AS and IB2 students.

Attend exit interview.

Exit interviews

Name, date of birth, subjects studied, report grades, final grade.

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL March 1st 2018

Carnegie Mellon University Weil Cornell University Texas A AND M university Qatar

All application packs completed with students. All applications and student recommendations collated.

Complete application process online and collect packs from assigned counsellor to hand in to relevant university.

March 18th 2018

Qatar university application deadline

All details completed checked and application packs given to students.

Complete online application and submit all details by deadline day.

April 2018

Additional applications

Support additional applications

Apply to further universities if no success with original ones.

April 30th 2018

ABP application ‘Deadline

All details completed checked and application packs given to students.

Complete online application and submit all details by deadline day.

May 2018

External examinations begin

Prepare for exams

Study and get ready for final exams

June 2018

End of external examinations

Send exams to the UK for marking

Clearance form to be filled and obtain access details for online results from your course coordinator

July 2018

Waiting for results to be announced by Exams Boards.

Waiting for results to be announced by exams boards.

Waiting for results to be announced by exams boards.

July 31st 2018

Stendan University application deadline

All details completed checked and application packs given to students.

Complete online application and submit all details by deadline day.

August 2018

Results are published online during second week of August

Prepare transcripts Print out results statements and transcripts*

Collect statement of results from school*

Re-marking of Exam Papers or Re-sit of examinations: • GES cannot request a re-marking of exam papers unless parents confirm their wishes to re-mark.

• Remarking may take up to 6 weeks as it takes place in the UK. • Re-marking could improve the result or lower the result.

• All students are expected to collect their original certificates by October (ensure that you collect your IGCSE eradicates) Attestations requirements and steps: Requirements: Kindly note that universities requirements may differ as per the offers received from universities.

To attest you Year 12 qualifications you will need to have: • 5 IGCSE A*-E and • 2 AS-levels A-E or • 1 AS-level and 1 BTEC • IB diploma (SEC does not accept IB certificate) Steps: 1.

Collect stamped “Results Statements” and transcripts from the school.

2.

Take the documents to the “Evaluation Institute” at the SEC to attest the documents.

3.

After you attest your documents you will need to go to the “Equivalency Department” at SEC to receive your Equivalency certificate from SEC.

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COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE Session Plan Timetable

Session 1 – Naviance introduction / Careers choices • Complete career choices quiz and enter careers choices into this booklet • Complete all own details on Naviance (if using Naviance) Session 2 – University research and choices • Research universities/ choose 5 • Find out requirements • Obtain parental permission to apply.

Session 3 – Application process – Personal Essay • Personal Essay completion • Mind map completed for personal essay • Additional supplementary written pieces completed Session 4 – Application process – Letters of recommendation • Letters of Recommendation form finalised • Given out and checked for completion Session 5 – Standardised Tests • Register and book test dates • Complete practice test • Record results of practice tests in handbook Session 6 – Application process – Applying • Register with common application • Register with UCAS • Applying Online for individual universities Session 7– Application process – Supplementary evidence • Collect and have copied and verified all supplementary evidence • Prepare and create application packs • Complete CV builder exercise and create CV Session 8 – Mock interviews • Complete question booklet • Attend mock interview • Plan for improvements following feedback Session 9 – Application process – Results • Completion of table of results of application Session 10 – Exit Interview • Complete exit interview survey • Attend exit interview with counsellor

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL

Session 1 – Careers Planning - Naviance Induction

Career planning helps realise your ambitions — what you would like to do in your working life. A plan helps you focus on what you should do when thinking about a new career. It also helps if you would like to progress in the career you are in.

• Whether you're looking for your first job or wanting to change career, there are a number of things you can do that can help you make the best decision. Firstly, get to know yourself - your strengths, values, interests and ambitions. Next, do your research on your chosen job - make sure you know as much as you can about what the job is really like and if it's the right job for you.

• Planning needs time and careful consideration. You need to think about:

• what you can do already

• what you would like to do next

• what else you need to learn.

• Finally, get some advice from a professional - there might be other options or funding schemes open to you that you didn't know about. And it always helps to have someone impartial as a sounding board to check if you're doing the right thing.

• This book and the links below can help you to change or choose a career. There's advice for you if you've just started to think about making a change or if you're looking for some last minute checks before you take the leap.

How to find out your ideal Career path

Not sure what you want to do for your career? Log onto this website and take the buzz quiz, this will give you some helpful ideas of careers you can pursue and what you would need to do to achieve your chosen career.

Action: Log on to https://icould.com/buzz/ You will see this page:

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COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE Naviance introduction/Induction Through self-discovery and collaboration with parents, teachers and school counsellors, Naviance enables students to find university and career pathways that are right for them. Start by setting personalised goals, learn about your skills and interests, and explore career options based on those interests. Then search for colleges, apply for scholarships and track your admissions status.

Naviance is a computer software programme that will enable you to plan your future careers and university applications.

• • • • •

Self-directed search programme designed to help you with your future planning Help you to set goals Discover your career choices Decide on your college subject Plan your college/university applications

Finally, Naviance helps students plan a course of action to reach their goals, find resources to prepare academically, and discover their own path.

How to use Naviance Registering with Naviance See picture below and do the following : Students go to: http://connection.naviance.com/gulfeng • On the new page click on “I need to register” • Enter the registration code provided

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL

Complete the registration process • Enter your email address correctly • Change your password to one you will remember • Go to the “ABOUT ME” tab (the third one over) • Go to your “profile” • (Under the “Official Things” section) • At the bottom right of that screen is a little yellow pencil, under the “email” line. Click on the pencil and add the email address YOU use the most • Then go to the “EDIT” function at the top of the page • Complete and check YOUR information • Nationality, address, telephone, etc.

• Verify birth date—Month/Day/Year • Be sure to click “update” at the bottom of the page

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COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL

You will now be on your home page see picture above click on the “about me” tab  Go to the top left of the page, second arrow down on left:  Click on “Personality Type”  This will take you to the “Do What You Are” inventory  Be sure to read instructions carefully to make sure you understand what you will be doing  will When yoube have this make save the results.click on the “about me” tab You now oncompleted your home pagesure seeyou picture above Homework – Research careers choices - If using Naviance • Go to the top left of the page, second arrow down on left: Open up your page on Naviance and complete the following quizzes Click on “Personality Type” 1.• Explore Careers and clusters This will take profiler you to the “Do What You Are” inventory 2.• Career interest Be sure to read instructions carefully to make sure you understand what you will be doing 3.• Cluster finder • When you have completed this make sure you save the results.

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   

Click on “Personality Type” This will take you to the “Do What You Are” inventory Be sure to read instructions carefully to makeCOUNSELLING sure you understand what you will beGUIDANCE doing AND CAREERS When you have completed this make sure you save the results.

Homework – Research careers choices - If using Naviance

Homework – Research careers choices - Ifcomplete using Naviance Open up your page on Naviance and the following quizzes Open1. up your page on Naviance and complete the following quizzes Explore Careers and clusters 1. Explore Careers and clusters 2. Career interest profiler 2. Career interest profiler Cluster finder 3.3. Cluster finder

When you have completed the quizzes please save the answers onto your page on Naviance and write below what the suggestions were for your careers and what you have decided is the career of your choice.

When you have completed the quizzes please save the answers onto your page on Naviance and write below what the suggestions were for your careers and what you have decided is the career of your choice.

Career Cluster identified Career choice/s identified Actual career choice/s

Naviance

Naviance

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL

2. Session two - University Research

Choosing where to study is a complicated time you need to ensure that this is going to offer you the best options there are a number of things to take into consideration when you are making this decision. It is essential that you work with your parents on this research, as they have to approve of the choices you make.

How to research

Visit the universities websites; use the search facility on Naviance, and UCAS.

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COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE

Ask yourself the following questions:

• Where is the university? Can you locate it on the map? Is it too close? Too far?, Is it too cold? Too hot there?

• Are you allowed by your family to travel?

• How much does it cost to study at this university? Think about the cost of the course, and the living expenses.

• What size is the university? How many students are undergraduates?

• Does the university offer the subjects/majors you are interested in?

• Is the university co-educational or single sex? Does that matter to you?

• How long does it take students to graduate? 3 years, 4 years more?

• How many of the students continue to complete their degree?

• Does the university provide support for international students?

• Does the university provide accommodation on campus or off campus for students?

• Are there extra curriculum activities that interest you?

• What are the universities strong programmes?

• What do the students say in their reviews of the university?

• When are the application deadlines?

• What do you need to do to apply, what do you need to include?

• What additional tests do you need to complete?

• Can you visit the University?

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL Useful Guidance for entrance requirements for common university applications University

IGCSE

AS level

ACT

SAT

IELTS

Weil Cornell

5 A*-A (don’t accept anything below A)

Not accepted only IB diploma.

28 or above

Minimum 650 in each section

7.5

CMU

5 IGCSE (A*-B) nothing below B

4 AS-level (they 28 or don’t accept Business above AS- level). Mathematics AS-level is a must.

Minimum 650 in each section

7.5

George Town

5 IGCSE (A*-C) 4 AS-level (Math is a Nothing below C must A*-B)

26 or above

Minimum 600 in each section

7 to 7.5

North Western

5 IGCSE A*-C

17-20 or above

Minimum 600 in each section

7 to 7.5 emphasis on writing

Texas A&M

5 IGCSE (Physics 3 AS-level (Physics is and sciences is compulsory) a must)

Virginia Commonwealth University

5 IGCSE

Minimum 600 20 or in each section above (prefer ACT to SAT)

7 to 7.5

3 AS – Level +art portfolio

5.5

Academic Bridge 5 IGCSE A-E Programme

2 AS – Level Arabic not counted

5.5

Qatar University

2 AS – level A – D 80% equivalent for early admission

5.5

2 AS-level

5.5

5 IGCSE A- E Early admission A-C

UK-USA 5 IGCSE (Foundation year or Pathway only)

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3-4 AS-level (English and Math is a must)

COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE Decisions When you have all the answers to these questions, and you have discussed all these things with your parents, please complete the following checklist with your chosen universities and information.

You will also need to place this information on the university choice and permission list. Your parents will need to confirm and sign the choices you have made.

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL Homework - Research Check List When you have completed your research, list those universities that interest you the most (in no particular order) or those that you consider to be “possible� choices for further exploration.

Now make your final choice of the five universities you are going to apply to and transfer the information onto the checklist below.

Homework - University Choice and Permission 1. Identify the careers you are interested in pursuing at university please list them below

2. Please research and choose five universities you are interested in applying to (please note if you choose UK you can select another 4 universities around the world. You only make one application to UK for up to five universities, and if this is your choice please put all 5 on one line) 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

3. You will need to get your parents to sign here to say they are happy for you to apply and go to these universities

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Father's Signature

Mother's Signature

Father's Name

Mother's Name

COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE 4. For each university you have identified please list below the specific entry requirement you would require to obtain place there – (IB point score, TOEFL IELTS, SATS ACT etc.) you will find this on the university website.

Choice 1 – University name

Choice 2 – University name

Choice 3 – University name

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL

Choice 4 – University name

Choice 5 – University name

Adding your choices to your Naviance Account Log on to your Naviance account and go to the section my applications and upload your final five university choices.

Signed Student

Signed Counsellor

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Date

Date

COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE 3.

Session 3 – Personal Essay

The Personal Essay

• How to write a good personal statement • Why do Universities require personal statements?

• To see a sample of the applicant’s writing.

• To get to know the applicant better.

• To get acquainted with the applicant’s way of thinking, his or her beliefs and views on things and whether they are in accordance with the views of the institution he or she is applying to.

• To examine the creative potential of the applicant.

• For international students the personal statement is often the only way through which they can represent themselves in front of the admission team.

Remember, you get one chance to present yourself to someone who has never met you. You have only a short word count to do that, which varies from university to university.

Five paragraph essay Standard five paragraph essay structure: Best used when University has suggested a topic to present • Introduction with thesis statement • Three paragraphs of details, supporting the thesis • Conclusion that supports the thesis and wraps up the essay Alternative method - ideal for UK universities Paragraph 1 • What is your chosen Career?

• What lead you to choose this?

• Did anyone /anything inspire you to do this?

• What do you think you require to study this?

Paragraph 2 What skills and qualities do you have?

• Think about subjects what are you good at and how can this transfer to university? e.g. making presentations in Business shows skills in confidence team building and communication.

• What skills outside of school?

• How do your current subject choices relate to the course you have chosen?

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL Paragraph 3 Activities that demonstrate your interest in the course • Have you had any work experience that relates to this course?

• What exactly did you do?

• Have you had any experience that would support this for example in school did you help organize international day? Would show commitment, organisation, planning, team work and communication skills Paragraph 4 Charity voluntary work • Have you done any charity work? Explain the charity work you have completed and the skills you have developed • Have you been involved in CHAT? Explain what your role was and what skills you have developed within this role.

• Have you been involved in MUN ? MUN? Have your attended any conferences? What was your role and what skills did you gain from doing this.

• Have you organised any international days? What did you do for the days and what skills did you learn?

• Anything outside of school? Things like EID gifts for workers etc.

Paragraph 5 Hobbies and interests • What are your hobbies?

• What are you interested in this hobby?

• Do you play any sports? Have you won any competitions

Some do’s and don’t’s DO • • • •

Keep your focus narrow and personal Try to show the person you are Do give examples to confirm what you have stated Be specific – avoid generic and predictable writing by using vivid and specific details

Don’t • • • • •

Don’t tell them what you think they want to hear Don’t copy / plagiarise your essay from internet Don’t write a CV Don’t use 50 words when 5 will do Don’t forget to proof read

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COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL Homework Personal Essay – Bullet Points Complete the following boxes below with your key bullet points of your personal essay and hand in or submit on line via Firefly to your counsellor

Homework Personal Essay Complete your personal essay - remember you may need more than one if you’re applying for different courses or different universities. Then send it to both your English teacher and Counsellor prior to next appointment for amendments / improvements

When your essay is completed and agreed with your counsellor please upload to your Naviance account.

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COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE 4. Session 4 - Letters of Recommendation

All universities ask for a school recommendation. This can be from the year co-ordinator and chosen teachers. It is important that they are able to talk knowledgeably about you, and much of the information about you comes from discussion with your teachers, and advisors. You can also include any testimonials from voluntary work, work shadowing etc. The Counsellors will be happy to help you make the decision about which teachers you want to ask to write recommendations.

You will need to consider the following points: • You waiver your right to see letters of recommendation they are kept confidential between, teacher, counsellor and university.

• Ideally should have a recommendation letter for Maths and English teacher • May need additional letters to fit the subject.

• Universities are interested in the following information: • Do you show interests in subject or just your grades? o Do you accept criticism and work to improve?

• Are you consistent?

• Are you inquisitive or just argumentative?

• Are you active in class or do you do just enough? o Do you participate as a team with others?

How to get a good letter or recommendation • Complete homework in the booklet with as much detail as possible, making an individual copy for each teacher you are going to ask.

• Ask your teachers politely and respectively to complete these for you.

• Add the teachers to your Naviance account with your counsellor and send of the requests.

• You will need to give the teacher a copy of the form and also copies of any forms the universities want you to complete • Remember to thank them for completing the letters.

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL Homework – Letters of Recommendation Complete this form making sure you personalise it for specific teachers relating to their subject and your time in their class.

Please list below the subjects and teachers you are asking for your letters of recommendation.

REQUEST FOR TEACHER LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION I wish to request a letter of recommendation. I am providing the following information to assist you in the writing of the letter.

My full legal name as it is on your passport (please print carefully)

Date

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School admin number

COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE

My career goal is: Special achievements in your class: (What did you do in class that made you stand out? What do you feel was your strongest contribution to the class?)

I have shown the most improvement in what topic or skill:

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL The moment or experience that pushed me or made me grow the most in class was:

What I enjoyed the most about this class was:

3 Adjectives that best describe me are:

Extra Curricular activities I took part in (clubs, sports, charity work):

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COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE 4. Session 4 – Standardised Tests There are a number of tests that Universities expect you to complete as part of your application process. Each university will have its own requirements, which you will of, identified in the previous section. The following information shows you some basic information of the content and requirements of the key tests. You may be asked for an international code for the school.

Gulf English School code: 000004 Please note if you are applying to education city and you choose to do ACT you have will have to do the ACT Residual exam this is specific to Education city.

SAT v ACT

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL Compare the tests so you can decide which you should take

Compare the tests so you can decide which you should take

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COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL IELTS V TOEFL

IELTS Availability

TOEFL

Paper based and speaking test. Internet based number of dates each Specific institutions available 48 times month. No restrictions on number of per year no restrictions number of tests taken. times it can be taken.

Test format

Paper based four sections: Listening, Internet

based

Reading, speaking and writing.

Reading,

Listening,

four

sections:

speaking

and

writing.

Where to sit

British Council

Education City

Education City College of north Atlantic Qatar University

Qatar universities all accept scores. Accepted by all American universities

acceptance

Not all American universities do down to individual.

Validity

NOT

accepted

Universities.

Up to 2 years

Up to 2 years

36 39

by

some

British

COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE

Preparing for the tests

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL Preparing for the tests

All of the above tests have practice papers and helpful information to assist you to complete the tests and achieve the best possible scores. You can find out this information on the relevant website for the test. In addition you can also attend preparation classes again these will be advertised on the counsellor’s notice board and can also be found on the relevant websites. Finally you can also purchase books with practice tests and papers in to complete.

Sample web link to practice papers https://www.powerscore.com/sat/help/content_practice_ tests.cfm You need to prepare yourself well to ensure the best possible result, it will not help if you try to cram all the information in a short space of time. You need to spread your practice out over time. It is important that you register one month in advance of the test.

On the day of the test You will need to ensure and bring the following items with you to the tests.

• ID or passport must be original not photocopy.

• Registration ticket to confirm your place on the test.

• Students for ACT residual need to print out information about the location and time which would be sent in confirmation email.

• Drink and a snack or money to purchase

• Pens, pencils, and calculator where appropriate.

• Mobile phones are NOT ALLOWED.

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COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE

Homework – Standarised tests What Do I Need? - My Standardised Test Planner – please complete with details and results 1. You will need to register and sit the relevant tests (SATS, IELTS, TOEFL, and ACT) as soon as possible to help support your university applications and give you the best possible chance to obtain the highest mark. Please list in the table below the registration details and proposed dates for Tests needed – If your interest is in medicine or Law you will also need to add the dates for UKAT/LSA

2. Please take a practice test of at least one of these listed below and write in if there are any others you have practiced on in the box below.

Please log into Naviance and update your tests and test results

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL

Session 4 - Application process & Timeline To begin the application process you need to ensure that you use the information that you have researched in session 2, you will need to follow the guidelines for each university.

Below is some useful information and numbers for the following application processes:

• Education city apply online – print off information needed for teachers recommendations as recommended on each individual university.

• UK universities IB students need to register with UCAS on www.ucas.com • Centre number 46393 • School buzzword Gulf2018 • UK students AS – Foundation course will need to check individual universities and mostly complete online application • USA students can choose to apply through common application process found on www.collegeboard.com School registration number 632025

It is essential that you plan out the whole application process to ensure that you are able to meet all the deadlines and requirements of your university application process. To help you to do this the next Homework in the workbook is for you to fill in your timeline plan and to work out what needs to be completed and by which month. If it helps you, you can put the dates in to the sheet as well In addition to the timeline it is important that you start thinking about your personal essay and to complete a mind map of the contents you would like to include. You will already have some ideas from the workshop day and also from reading session 6 in this handbook. You should discuss this with your individual counsellor.

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Some application do’s and don’t’s

COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE

`Dos`: Do... take the online tour. Before you start your application, walk through each step of the application on our virtual tour.

Do... create a user name and password that you’ll remember easily. Record it and keep it in a safe place. lf you lose your password, store a mobile-and write -----this booklet, suggest using Naviance password if applicable.

Do... disable pop-up blockers in order to view the part of the application that display in pop-up windows.

Do... follow directions and complete all steps on each page and in every pop-up, scroll to the bottom to avoid missing any information.

Do... print out copies of your personal statement to cross-check your work with your counsellor or an instructor.

Do... carefully review the summary page. Look for any instance where it says, “no information added," and if you didn’t intend to leave that area blank, click "modify" to return to the step where you can fill it in.

Do... click "Submit Application" when you’ve finished. Your application won’t be sent to the University until you do.

Do... print out your receipt and keep it! You will have a record of your application ID number and a complete summary of your application. `Don’ts` Don’t. . Forget to save your work. You usually have no more than 40 minutes per Web page before you’ll be timed out. Whenever you save an entry or move to a new page, your work is automatically stored, but if you plan to leave your application for any length of time to go grab a snack or answer the phone —· use the save/logout feature to store your , application, then log back in.

Don’t... compose your personal statement online. Take time to compose it in a word-processing application, such as Microsoft Word, save it as a text file, and then copy and paste it into the appropriate boxes in the online application.

Don’t... be afraid to ask for help. If you have technical difficulties, don’t be afraid to ask the "Help Desk," "Technical Support," or "Contact" links.

Top tips for making a successful application • Make sure you register and keep a copy of your reference number, your user name and your password.

• Make sure that you spell your name the same as your passport • Ensure that you know your full home address, PO box and telephone number • Arrange to have your counsellor scan you passport, Qatar ID and your transcripts and keep copy of those scans.

• Apply early know all the deadlines for your relevant university.

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL Home work – Applying to university Please list below all the universities you are applying to and tick when you have successfully sent off your application.

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COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE

Session 7 - Application pack - Supplementary Evidence- CV builder To support your application universities sometimes ask for additional evidence, you may have achieved additional awards that show your skills and qualities that you would like to include within your application pack that you develop with your counsellor.

Below is a list of the things that could be included if it is not on this list please check with your counsellor.

•

Resume / Curriculum Vitae

• Photographs

•

Copy of passport/ Resident’s permit

•

Certificates for SAT/ACT

•

Certificates for IELTS/ TOEFL

•

Previous school certificates/ transcripts

•

School awards

•

Testimonials from work, voluntary, charity experience

•

MUN, CHAT, CAS awards

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL Homework - Resume /CV Builder Naviance It is important to include within your application pack a copy of a rResume / CV, which gives a snapshot of the skills and qualities you, have.

This is a method to create your Resume within your page on Naviance

Log

on

to:

http://connection.naviance.com/gulfeng

Click on resume you will see this page

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-

You

will

see

this

page

COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE

Click onon‘add entry’and andselect select category you should aiminto fill in something for every Click ‘add new new entry’ thethe category you should aim to fill something for every category. category.

On the right hand side of each selection you will find hints and tips to help you complete the task see picture below

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL On the right hand side of each selection you will find hints and tips to help you complete the task see picture below

Don’t forget to save all your entries

Don’t forget to save all your entries

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Session 8– University visits and Interviews VISITING UNIVERSITIES

COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE Session 8– University visits and Interviews VISITING UNIVERSITIES Why visit a university campus?

1. Most university students and university counsellors agree that the visit will have the greatest single impact in determining your university choice.

2. You can gain an awareness of the atmosphere or “feel” for a university that cannot be derived from reading a prospectus, visiting an internet site, or talking to people second hand.

3. A visit often clarifies for you the desired size, type or location of a university that cannot be determined prior to a visit. Seeing different types of universities will help you select the university, which is best, suited for you.

4. Ask good questions so that you can gain as much information as possible 5. Make a good impression this may be the person who looks at your application University interviews ON CAMPUS INTERVIEWS – Qatar foundation / UK These tend to be more formal and allow the university admissions professional to gain some insight about how the student would fit into the campus. The students, of course are trying to “sell themselves” and at the same time gather some information about their application process and admissions standards.

INTERVIEWS PLANNING THE UNIVERSITY INTERVIEW

1. Plan ahead (For on campus interviews) make the appointment well in advance by phone or e-mail including registering a skype address.

2. Browse the web-site and review any admissions materials you may have received to gain information on courses of study, local atmosphere and what is expected.

3. Don’t ask the obvious question. “How big is your school? . . . Do you have a major in...? Do you have a football team?" . . . ALL of that is on the website!

4. Bring a copy of your latest transcript, test scores and a résumé. Use them with discretion.

Don't force them on an interviewer and only use them at the appropriate time.

5. Construct a resume of your activities, interests, hobbies, likes and dislikes, Be prepared to answer questions concerning the above and try to correlate them with the university you are visiting.

6. Sit down with your counsellor beforehand for a briefing. They may have information on the university that can be of value to you when preparing for a visit or interview.

7. Go over same of the questions below with a friend, parent, teacher or counsellor this will reduce anxiety and nervousness when actual interview takes place.

8. The best advice about interview, though, is to relax and be yourself.

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL

QUESTIONS A STUDENT MIGHT ASK A UNIVERSITY INTERVIEWER

1.Why did YOU choose to go to this university?

2. What are weekends like on campus? (Especially for someone whose parents may still live overseas.)

3. Could you comment on the placement record of graduates with major companies?

4. Why should I be interested in your university?

SOME DO’S AND DON’TS IN UNIVERSITY INTERVIEWS Do:

1. Come prepared — be familiar with the university you are visiting

2. Dress properly and be on time

3. Ask good questions (If you can ask the same or similar questions at each institution, it will give you a basis for comparison. Don't be too shy to write down the answers to help you remember later!)

4. Answer questions honestly and to the point

5. Be polite and enthusiastic.

6. Write a thank you note after your visit.

7. BE YOURSELF!

DON'T:

1. Talk too much or too little

2. Be too boastful or conceited

3. Try to influence the interviewer by who you know.

4. Make derogatory remarks about your high school or its teachers.

5. Leave the interview until you have accomplished what you set out to do.

6. Demand to know your chances of admissions.

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COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE Homework – Mock interview questions Prior to your interview with the counselling panel please research and answer the following questions with as much detail as possible.

Please write your short answers to the questions below, you can use bullet points at this stage does not need to be full sentences.

Opening questions 1.Tell me about your favorite school subjects? (what they are and why you like them)

2. Describe what your ideal weekend would be?

3. What do you think are the best things about our university?

4. What do you enjoy outside of school?

5. Tell me about yourself?

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL 6. Why do you want to come to this university?

7. Why have you chosen this particular course?

8.Tell me about an achievement you are particularly proud of?

9.How do you think you will cope with a heavy workload?

10.Tell me about a time when you have had to overcome an obstacle?

11.What do you see yourself doing in five years time?

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COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE 12. How organised are you?

13. Describe an instance when you have dealt with a difficult situation?

14. What parts of the course might you find difficult?

15. What do you think you will enjoy about this course?

16. If you could change anything about the way you have dealt with your school life so far what would it be?

17. Have you had any responsibilities at school?

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL 18.Tell me about a time when you have worked as a member of a team.

19. Describe the main challenges you expect to face in your first few days at university?

20. Tell me about your favourite activity?

21. Give me an example of a difficult problem you have solved?

22. Do you have any questions for me?

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COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE

Signed by

Student

Counsellor

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL Session – Results When you have found out what offers you have been made please complete the chart below and arrange an appointment with your counsellor to discuss your options and choices. Your counsellor can help you with the next stages of the process making decisions, how to apply for sponsorship, where to find out about accommodation if you’re travelling.

Homework

Session 10 – Exit Interview When you have completed all the activities in the booklet and made all your applications the counsellors will have an appointment with you to carry out an exit interview. You will be asked to complete a survey on Naviance to share your experiences of the application process. This allows us to get your feedback on your time at GES and to help us make improvements on the careers guidance we offer. Please be as open and honest with your feedback.

Activity - Exit interview Name: Date:

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COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE

Signature – counsellor

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL PASSWORD CONTROL To help you remember all the passwords & PIN numbers!

Don’t rely on your memory!

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COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE Useful Websites: Website standardised tests TOFEL

http://www.ets.org/toefl/ibt/about/

ACT

http://actstudent.org/index.html

SAT

http://sat.Universityboard.com/about-texts

Registering for the Tests TOFEL

http://www.ets.org/toefl/ibt/about/

ACT

http://actstudent.org/regist/index.html

SAT

http://sat.Universityboard.com/register

How are your Sources Interpreted?

TOFEL Sending the Scores

http://www.ets.org/toefl/ibt/scores/send/

Understanding the Scores http://www.ets.org/toefl/ibt/scores/understand/ ACT Sending the Scores

http://actstudent.org/scores/send/asrtips.html

Understanding the Scores http://actstudent.org/scores/send/index.html SAT Sending the Scores

http://sat.Universityboard.com/scores/send-sat-scores

Understanding the Scores http://sat.Universityboard.com/scores/understanding-send-sat-scores

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL Websites for the United States Local Contact Nahid Lawson

Student Advisor

Public Affairs Section

Embassy of the United States Of America

PO Box 2399

Doha – Qatar Tel 101-4884 -974 Ext 6149 Fax 4884173 974 Email: LawsonN@state.gov Website: http://Qatar.usembassy.gov Website: www.EductionUSA.state.gov www.braintrack.com

Listing (by country of university websites from all over the world).

www.Universityboard.com SAT registration MyRood career program.

University Search Program.

Links to University websites.

AP course and exam information. www.fastweb.com

financial aid search site

www.finaid.com

financial aid search site

www.petersons.com

University search site. summer camps and programs search site.

www.princentereview.com www.google.com/options/universities.html www.commonapp.org

Application Website.

www.Universitysofdistinction.com Profiling 400 Universities that emphasise the 4 distinctions of - engages students, great teaching, vibrant community and successful outcomes.

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COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE Websites for the UK www.ucas.com This is the primary site for information about tertiary studies in the UK. You may search by university or by course of study. It has the application, the search engine to look for specific courses (Majors) and links to the universities. www.thetimes.co.uk/uniggide This is the Times (newspaper) site that has regular articles about , education in the UK and Europe. In addition it has information about universities and even “rates“ the Universities. www.acu.ac.uk Association of Commonwealth Universities www.hefe.ac.uk Higher Education Funding Council for England A source of information about funding for education in the UK. www.Braintrack.com www.studyintl1euk.org Site recommended by the British Council http://uk.internationalstudentcom/studyuk/education_system/ Explains the UK education system www.StudyinBritain.com This site has free information available to research UK and Irish institutions through an on—1ine directory. These institutions are very keen to attract US and International Students to their campuses for full degree undergraduate programs. There are also some wonderful scholarships available for tuition as well. www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life and style/education/good_university guide/ Ranks the Universities in the UK and recommends the best courses to take in order to gain employment. www.bbc.co.uk/radio0/1nelifeleducationlindexshtml The BBC runs e series of student essential pages. The student guide offers information and university listings giving you real life guidance and resources. www.educationon.guardian.co.uk/universityguide/0,10085,488282,00.htm The Guardian publishes a UK university guide, placing a strong emphasis on the quality of teaching at each ranked institution. www.uk-universities.net/universities Gives Universities and universities in the UK according to one’s needs. www.britishcouncil.org/qatar-contact-us.htm Gives information about universities and cities in the UK, supports registration for IELTS.

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THE GULF ENGLISH SCHOOL

Worldwide Australia: Local contact IDP Education Australia West Corner Centre, Midmac Bridge, Salwa Road, PO Box 22673, Doha, Qatar Tel 974 4581745/46 Fax 974 4581775 www.idp.com Canada: Middle East contact Canadian Embassy Abu Dhabi, UAE (Margaret Haines) 971407-1333/9714071300-3701 Canada@emirates.net.ac The website for studying in Canada. www.studyincanada.com Citizenship & Immigration Canada www.cic.gc.ca Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada www.hccat.bc.ca

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COUNSELLING AND CAREERS GUIDANCE

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