WINVISION Career Magazine Issue 1

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INTRODUCING THE WINVISION TEAM!

Hiya Chopra Founder and Chief-Editor

Adiva Kapoor Co-Founder and Sub-Editor

Adeline Antony Joseph Content Editor

Sakshi Shiv Content Editor

Adrah Jacob Magazine Photographer

Khushhaal Suri Magazine Designer

Jivitesh Singh Bir Magazine Designer

Avanthikha Vimalkumar Social Media Specialist

WINVISION Columnists

Meher Vickyraj

Ryka Marie Thomas

Shenushi Ranasinghe

Alima Zaidi

Anagha Rohit

Yumna Iqbal

Special Mention

Saidhanya

Shivani Rajan

Justin Koshy

Editor’s Note Dear Readers, In a world where Artificial intelligence is taking over humanity at the speed of light and humans are near to leave the earth to start a new life on a different planet, all this is done because of people excelling in their field, pursuing their passion and having the enthusiasm to explore new discoveries. It is with great pleasure that I introduce to you the very first edition of WINVISION- a publication that will provide you with an insight of universities, careers and its related resources, taking you to a thrilling adventure!

As I pen this note, I recall having a conversation with my parents on option selections for my AS level, which steered me towards the topic of career and life goals. I had then started to do my research, opening each and every link displayed on the web page related to career and universities. After a few days, while I was randomly flipping through the pages of Friday magazine, the thought of starting a career magazine struck my mind.

And with this mission at the forefront, WINVISION grew from 1 to a team of 14.

Our team of skilful columnists and expert editors have made sure that the articles are not boring, rather inspiring, motivating and optimistic! While designing the magazine, our team’s sole purpose was to ensure that all this empowering and knowledgeable information is provided under one roof, as a guide to achieve your dreams. In addition, we are proud to mention how supportive our school is by conducting career fairs, inspiring assemblies, career weeks and events, provision of volunteering activities and many more!

My heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Meenakshi, Ms. Harpreet and Ms. Anna for their assistance throughout the journey of this creation. Shoutout to the WINVISION team for their dedication towards building this magazine.

Don’t forget to dream big and happy reading!

Warm Regards, Hiya Chopra Chief-Editor WINVISION

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Introduction Dear Readers, Welcome to the first edition of our very own Career magazine "WINVISION". In the modern fast paced and expeditious world, career choices are much more dynamic than ever before. As we embrace and adapt ourselves to the varied professional avenues available, we are thrilled to present you with a diverse range of articles to inspire and guide you on your career journey.

The dilemma most of us face as students, in opting for the correct career path is a task. With ample advice from our parents, teachers, and peer group, we often ignore a very important question: "Will I be happy doing this job for the rest of my life?"

The task of opting a career typically begins with an insight to an individual's skills, interests, and strengths.

The team of WINVISION is committed to empowering you towards your aspiring career by discovering your potential and taking a step closer to your dream!!

Warm Regards, Adiva Kapoor Sub-Editor WINVISION

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IN THIS EDITION Biochemistry: A modern day potions class A short but factual guide on the career requirements and the career opportunities of achieving a degree in biochemistry, including the subjects and grades required for university applications.

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Career Visions in Media Interested in joining the media field? Well then, this article is a must-read for you as it offers advice related to the jobs and courses in the media field.

How to get into a Canadian university?

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University of California, Berkeley: A Place of Possibilities

A quick article about prestigious Canadian universities and the process and requirements for studying in Canada.

UC Berkeley is one of the highest rank universities in the United States and this article uncovers the student life and courses at the UC.

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The real heroes are the ones in court, aspects of being a lawyer.

A must-see article that gives advice on the subjeczts, courses and careers related to the judicial field of the government.

Career prospects of IT field An article that provides information on jobs and subjects related to the IT field.

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A Guide to Assessing Your English Proficiency: IELTS IELTS (International English language testing system) is an English language-based test required by many universities for admissions and countries for immigration. This guide simplifies the whole process for you.

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Top 3 countries to study in the world An article that describes the countries with the 3 best educational systems in the world

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Career advice for students

Explore More!

A page dedicated to all the QR codes which can help you expand your knowledge about many of the article topics. Also contains the QR code for the Instagram account for WINVISION.

A section of the magazine that contains write-ups from the Winchester school alumni, for students and their careers.

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Expert Advice An interview article in which the chief editors of WINVISION (Hiya Chopra and Adiva Kapoor) went an interviewed an expert in the field of chemistry, working in a lab.

Also contains links to the podcast which is available on Spotify.

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Biochemistry: A Modern-Day Potions Class Saidhanya Sivakumar, Year 13 Are you interested in venturing into microscopic worlds and unravelling the secrets of the cell? Biochemistry is just the course for you!

Biochemistry explores the natural and chemical processes of all living organisms – think of it as a bridge connecting the two worlds of biology and chemistry.

Now, you're probably asking yourself, "What will I be studying anyway?"

This course delves deep into topics such as molecular biology, cell biology, medical biochemistry, genetic engineering, and other engaging subjects that will continue to pique your interest throughout the course.

Like all courses, Biochemistry has its own set of prerequisites that are important to note: most universities require a high school diploma, which necessitates completing 12 years of schooling.

Additionally, it is important that you are doing coursework in science and math subjects. Keep in mind that this is a competitive course, so most universities ask for grades AAA or AAB in your A levels. That said, biochemistry is the perfect gateway into healthcare and many other rewarding and exciting career opportunities, which will be discussed

in this article.

Biotechnologists: They research and develop technological applications to produce advances in fields such as healthcare, agriculture, and other chemical industries. One example of a biotechnologist’s project would be to investigate various pharmaceutical ingredients and their molecular properties, and run clinical tests to determine the optimal set of properties for drugs. Other projects may involve genetic engineering or the creation of biodegradable materials. Are you interested? You'll be pleased to know that this industry is highly diverse and intellectually stimulating! Moreover, it is a rapidly growing field of study and offers good pay while providing opportunities for further education.

Clinical Biochemists: If you are more passionate about making valuable contributions in the field of healthcare, you'd want to consider this occupation! Clinical biochemists work in diagnostic laboratories, aiding W I N V I S I O N | 10 W I N V I S I O N | 11

in disease diagnosis and patient care.

They analyze patient samples to help diagnose diseases such as diabetes and cancer, making it important for treatment decisions. Typical work activities include writing reports while carrying out complex analyses on various human specimens and developing new and innovative tests.

Forensic Biochemist: If you enjoy murder mysteries, this one’s for you! Well, it is a bit more than that. A Biochemistry degree prepares you for careers in crime laboratories where you can use deep knowledge of biochemistry to uncover evidence by stepping into the shoes of a detective.

You will be making intricate analyses of any physical evidence such as fingerprints, DNA, etc. This involves DNA analysis, toxicology, and other chemical analyses. Although a forensic scientist’s work often relates to crime, they may also work on other projects such as tracking the spread of a disease. The pros include a unique field that pays well; however, you should also consider the potentially stressful work environment and exposure to dark/disturbing scenes.

Environmental Scientists: Biochemists in environmental science study the impact of pollutants on ecosystems and human health. These scientists investigate the biodegradation of hazardous substances, assess water and soil quality, and develop eco-friendly solutions to a variety of environmental challenges contributing to a sustainable future. It is worth mentioning that the employment of environmental scientists and specialists is projected to grow 5% from 2021 to 2031.

Academic and Medical Education: Passionate about research? Another approach that many students take is the academia route, which helps them become professors, lecturers, or researchers, inspiring the next generation of scientists and contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field. It is also common to take Biochemistry as a pre-med course.

The Bottom Line: In the world of biochemistry, possibilities are as limitless as the molecules we study. From uncovering the mysteries of DNA to developing life-saving drugs and shaping a sustainable future, biochemists stand at the forefront of scientific innovations.

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HOW TO GET INTO A C N DI N UNIVERSITY?

Alima Zaidi, Year 12

Canada-Country Profile Provinces and territories: 10 Provinces (BC,ON,QC,AB, NL,NB,PE,SK,MB,NS) and 3 territories (YT,NT,NU).

Cities: Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa (capital), Edmonton, Calgary, Winnipeg, Halifax, Vancouver, Quebec City.

Major Airports: YYZ, YUL, YVR, YYC, YEG, YOW, YHZ Currency: Canadian Dollar (C$) Highest ranked University: University of Toronto (QS: 25)

Universities are hard, believe me! These past couple months have proven this statement over and over again. One of the hardest things I find over the discussion are the vast number of options we as students have. As someone who's going to year 12, the topic gets brought up a fair few times and at times the internet is just a never ending hole on searching up for multiple countries, multiple degrees and multiple universities and so I decided to narrow down the topic for all of you considering Canada.

International education holds a great significance that brings students from different parts of the world together, fostering cultural exchange and promoting understanding among diverse cultures, languages and perspectives.

Different countries offer unique strengths in various fields of study. International education allows students to access topnotch academic programs and research programs that may not be available in their home countries.

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Canadian universities are generally wellregarded and known for offering highquality education and research opportunities. The quality of education can vary between institutions and programs, but Canada as a whole has a strong reputation for its higher education system. Some Canadian universities consistently rank among the top in international university rankings.

The top ranked universities in Canada are: •

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University of Toronto: Often considered the top university in Canada, it's known for its research output and strong programs across a wide range of disciplines.

McGill University: Located in Montreal, is recognized for its research-intensive programs and strong reputation in both arts and sciences.

University of British Columbia (UBC): UBC consistently ranks among the top universities globally, offering a range of excellent programs.

University of Alberta: Particularly strong in areas like energy, environment, and health sciences.

University of Montreal: Known for its research contributions, especially in fields like life sciences and health.

University of Waterloo: Famous for its coop programs and strong focus on technology, engineering, and computer science.

Queen's University: Noted for its programs in business, law, and engineering.

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Western University: Strong in medical and health sciences, as well as engineering and business.

McMaster University: Known for its medical school and research in health sciences.

University of Ottawa: Located in the capital city, offering a strong law program and research opportunities.

These rankings can change from year to year, so it's essential to refer to the most recent rankings from reputable sources such as QS World University Rankings, Times Higher Education World University Rankings, and Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) to get the most up-to-date information on university rankings in Canada. It's also crucial to consider factors beyond rankings, such as program offerings, research opportunities, location, and your personal preferences when choosing a university.

Now how to get into these prestigious universities?

You need to start with deciding your major The "best" thing to study in Canada depends on your individual interests, strengths, career goals, and the evolving demands of the job market. Canada offers a wide range of high-quality academic programs across various disciplines. Here are a few areas of study that are popular and have significant opportunities:

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STEM Fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics): Programs in fields like computer science, engineering, data science, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and mathematics are in high demand due to the growth of technology-driven industries.

Health Sciences and Healthcare: Canada's ageing population has led to an increased demand for healthcare professionals. Programs in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, physiotherapy, and public health are valued.

Business and Management: Businessrelated programs such as finance, marketing, management, and entrepreneurship can provide skills that are applicable across industries.

It's crucial to choose a field of study that aligns with your passions, skills, and longterm goals. Consider researching labour market trends and consulting career advisors to understand which industries are growing and what skills are in demand. Additionally, consider the specific strengths and specialisations of Canadian universities in your chosen field when making your decision.

Ultimately, the "best" thing to study is what you're genuinely interested in and what will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in your desired career path.

Canadian universities usually take grades into more importance. Most of the high quality universities require a minimum B grade for English language in IGCSE. As we all are international students its important to know the visa and immigration system and to familiarise with the student visa and have all the necessary documentation ready to apply to these universities Universities also have specific English proficiency requirements which are ILETS:93 TOEFL:

7.0.

There have been quite a few success stories from Canada, some proven alumni who were international students. "I can unequivocally say that choosing IMS and the University of Toronto was one of my best life decisions."

Pratiek Matkar The number of international students at the University of Toronto has grown steadily over the last decade, reaching 22,728 FTE in 2020-21, which is 26.8% of total undergraduate and graduate enrolment.

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Students also take upon scholarships which Canadian universities do provide Canadian government-funded scholarships: These are provided to students in the form of awards to encourage students to opt for study here.

Non-government scholarships: Awarded by various trusts and communities to students who choose to pursue specific courses.

Institutional scholarships: These are

How-to-apply-to-university-of-toronto International-students- McGill Apply- McGill.

International-students- Waterloo International-students- Waterloo So that's all you need to know to apply to a Canadian university Good luck to everyone

awarded by individual colleges or universities to students who choose to study with them.

Canada also has a pretty high level of living expenses namely: Food: C$ 300 to C$400 Travel: C$80 to C$110 Entertainment: C$150 Accommodation(shared): C$400 to C$800 • Health Insurance: C$70 to C$80 • Utilities (electricity, cooling, heating, water, garbage): C$160 to C$180 Some links that can help you for applying can be General- Toronto • • • •

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CAREER VISIONS IN MEDIA Meher Vickyraj, Year 10 Introduction to the Media Industry: Media, an industry which is well-known and is a substantial aspect in every individual's normal practice, can be defined as a communication scheme that is used to store and deliver information to people. The media industry consists of businesses which act as a medium for the information to be shared, hence there exists a countless number of means through which it is shared including; newspapers, news, social media, films, music, radio, etc consequently at the outset, media studies graduates revolve their work around the areas of television, film and video, journalism, writing and publishing, PR, and etc.

Exploring Options:

Different

Media

Career

Media career options comprises numerous careers for aspiring professionals, among which are;  Journalism: Reporting news, going through and passing on various national and international stories, writing or publishing articles for newspapers and magazines or social media platforms.

 Films and Video Production: Considering this as one of the most influential fields in media, it revolves around; directing, producing, or

editing films, television series and documentaries, driving forces behind the making of a film, making creative decisions for cinematography/videography and many more related to the same.

 Media Law and Ethics: Specialising in legal issues related to media majorly; copyright, privacy laws, defamation. As a whole, media law and ethics determine the information and whether it can be communicated or not.  Photography: Capturing images for businesses for communicating information such as; news, fashion, events,  Media Planning and Buying: Media planning refers to the process of planning to purchase a space by the aim of advertising space or time in different media channels, the process involves; identifying, assessing and selecting media channels. On the other hand media buying is the process which is used in paid marketing efforts, it refers to purchasing an ad space that is relevant to the target audience at the optimal time, as a result buyers receive maximum exposure by their target market with the least amount of money spent.

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Popular Media Degree Programs With The Suitable University and Requirements: In the massive field of media there exists a large number of degrees you can equip in order to pursue media which require specific subjects and pointers. Several of which are;

Degree/Course/Program

Suitable University

Duration

BSc Digital Media & Marketing

University Of Europe For Applied Sciences (Germany)

6 Semesters

BA In Media Studies

University Of Groningen (Netherlands)

3 Years

BA (Hons) Media Production

University Of Lincoln (United Kingdom)

3 Years

MSc In Media Management

ESCP Business School (France)

1 Years

MSc In Digital Media Production

Oxford Brookes University (United Kingdom)

1 Years

MA In Global Media Industries

King's College London (United Kingdom)

1 Years

MA New Media Design

University Of Europe For Applied Sciences

2 Semesters

BSc Creative Media

Haarlem Campus (Netherlands)

4 Years

Film & Media BA Honours

Newcastle University (United Kingdom)

3 Years

Master Of Arts In Film & Media

Johns Hopkins University (USA)

3 Years

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There are many more degrees/courses to pursue than mentioned in the figure above.

The universities mentioned for the specific degrees aren’t the only universities offering the course hence there are other universities for the same too.

The common subjects needed for pursuing a degree in media are; English Language/English Literature, History, Psychology, Sociology, Business Studies/Economics and Art & Design. (These are just some of the common subjects needed to pursue a degree in media, you can see more accurate subjects on the sites of the universities offering the courses).

Why Choose A Career In Media?

To begin with, a career in media often allows you to express your knowledge with the readers which in turn plays a vital role in educating the audience in various aspects, adding to that another crucial reason for people choosing a career in media is that there are networking options that comes with it, media industry is where you get to collaborate and interact with professionals from top-tier industries which in future helps you build a strong network for future use. Lastly but prominently a career in media has an end number of global opportunities including; cross border collaborations, playing part in diplomatic communications, improvisation and entering an area of public relations.

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Ryka Marie Thomas, Year 11 On the east side of San Francisco Bay in Northern California lies the beautiful city of Berkeley, which is home to the University of California, Berkeley (nicknamed UC Berkeley). UC Berkeley is known for its wide variety of undergraduate, graduate and PhD programs, world-famous research institutes and many famous alumni. It has also been recently noted for its considerable environmental involvement in the movie ‘Oppenheimer.’ A film portraying the involvement of one of its old professors, J. Robert Oppenheimer. Here’s what you need to know about this high-reaching university.

Why Choose Berkeley?

Courses and rankings: UC Berkeley has a vast amount of degree programs to offer. Over 350 to be exact. Its top 3 courses are cell/cellular + molecular biology, computer science and econometrics + quantitative economics. To add, UC Berkeley has achieved its prestige due to many of its graduates receiving Nobel Prize awards in physics, chemistry, and economics. Furthermore, it was ranked #4 in Best Global Universities and #1 in the list of World’s Best Public Universities.

Also, in America, you are allowed to change majors unlike in other countries like the United Kingdom.

To see a full list of UC Berkeley’s undergraduate degree programs, visit this link.

The university is well-known for its numerous distinguished graduates and extensive graduate programmes. Every year, they confer enormous numbers of master's and professional degrees.

Additionally, it is a nondiscriminatory institution that endeavours to accept anyone consistently pursuing a rich and comprehensive education, regardless of background. UC Berkeley offers a lot of great qualities, including world-class academics, outstanding athletics, a magnificent Bay Area location, affordable tuition, and a rich history.

Campus Opportunities We will all need to start looking for jobs during and after we graduate from college. UC Berkeley offers opportunities for students to work as interns or in parttime jobs as experience. This will help build your resume for the future. UC Berkeley has a variety of on-campus jobs that occur per semester (e.g., lab assistant, teaching assistant, campus library assistant, etc.).

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For those interested in careers in technology, the campus is located an hour away from the famous Silicon Valley which offers tremendous opportunities for the skilled and talented. This sort of proximity could definitely provide some advantage to those eager to enter the technology world.

In UC Berkeley, chances are that you will only be able to get a dormitory during the first year (unless you become a housing assistant), however, it is fairly easy to find accommodation elsewhere (e.g., I-house, shared apartments). The cost of living in California is slightly higher than in most other states. For rent, you can visit this site

Boarding houses An essential factor to take in when choosing a university is housing options.

UC Berkeley provides a wide range of dorms to its students. However, it is crucial to note that none of the dorms are located on UC Berkeley’s campus and that they all reside in the surrounding city. [To understand more about housing format, visit: housing.berkeley.edu]

Requirements: So, we know a bit about UC Berkeley now. But what are the requirements to get in? For non-American residents, a GPA of higher than 3.4 is required (or else a GPA of 3.0 for American residents) but it is recommended to have a GPA of at least 3.8 to better your chances of getting in. In addition, you should have no grades lower than a C in required high school courses. If your portfolio does not meet up to these requirements, it is possible to gain admission with a high score on ACT/SAT and two SAT subject tests. It’s also best to show your flexibility in different fields with a range of competitions and extracurriculars (proof of both is needed).

Features included in all dorms are: Cal Dining Blue Meal Plan Gas, electric, water, garbage, recycling, and compost utilities High-speed Wi-Fi, Xfinity streaming TV, and phone jack outlet Professional live-in staff available 24/7 Laundry centre, mail services, and bike storage Three tiers of secured entry and access for buildings Academic Services Centre with PC and Mac workstations, laser printers, and network connection On-site fitness and recreation rooms Smoke-free environment Furniture: extra-long twin bed, bunkbed or lofted bed, desk, chair, dresser, mirror, closet, microwave, and mini refrigerator (some housing units differ in furniture)

Admissions: • Acceptance rate is 14.4% • Tuition fees are around $14,420 without living expenses, health insurance, etc.

• Visit https://www.berkeley.edu/ to learn more about admissions.

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Students’ thoughts: An interview by a few current students of UC Berkeley.

Ananya Goenka (American citizen from India), incoming junior, majoring in computer science and integrative biology.

Preethi Subbiah (Indian citizen), incoming junior, majoring in economics and public health Reuben Thomas (Previous UAE resident from India), incoming junior, majoring in electrical engineering and computer science and logic minor

understanding people better, understanding different backgrounds better - so that when I step into the field of healthcare economics, I can be better equipped to make better decisions that are focused on equity and inclusivity and understand the different challenges that different people face to make sure that our healthcare solutions are apt and can be personalised to their needs and their backgrounds.

Q. Why did you choose Berkeley?

Ananya: It was a good school that I got into that was 15 minutes away from my house so I can live with my parents.

Preethi: They have a lot of different research opportunities and they have a variety of research fields that they focus on and knowing that I wanted to go into the niche of the intersection of healthcare and economics, I chose a university that would expose me to research and a variety of The mascot of UC Berkeley is a golden bear named professors that Oski. UC Berkeley has 27 focus on bear statues scattered healthcare around campus economics or healthcare policy with an economics focus or even just more generally public economics. I also chose the university for its variety of students, it is a very diverse crowd and I knew that experiencing my college education in such a diverse crowd would be beneficial to me –

Cal Alumni hold 31 Nobel prizes, 117 gold Olympics medals, 51 silver Olympics medals and 39 bronze Olympics medals.

Reuben: I applied everywhere as an electrical engineering major and in Berkeley, they didn't have a stand-alone electrical engineering major - they had an electrical engineering and computer science major, which is really good - it allows me to be a bit more free. For the program, Berkeley is ranked first or second, tied with MIT, Stanford and other such universities. It’s a good school if you're doing computer science or engineering in general. It’s also located conveniently, next to tech-world and silicon valley (a job environment), leading to more opportunities. I was also into starting or joining a start-up in the future and silicon valley is like the centre of most start-ups Berkeley has a decent infrastructure and a pretty solid community when it comes to starting start-ups.

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Q. What is your opinion on Berkeley?

Ananya: My experience at Berkeley has been both really good and bad because the classes are really really hard but at the same time very fulfilling and I’ve met a lot of really amazing people. So overall it is a net positive.

Reuben: I said that Berkeley is great and amazing for electrical engineering and computer science and I think it's one of the best. I think the major - to understand what is means (electrical engineering and computer science), when you have a major in the US generally what that means is that they give you a set of requirements that you need to complete the degree, and you have lower-division classes, which are like the foundation class you take before your first two years are over, and then you have your upper-division classes, which is where you’re learning more advanced topics. Berkeley’s EECS program, they’re very general and liberal, they allow you to take both EE and CS classes for upperdivision and lets you count them towards your major which gives you a lot of freedom. I also like the fact that there’s a lot of freedom, I think that not all universities allow you to do even double majors

but I know people with double majors, double majors and a minor (I have a minor), I also know one person that’s done like 5 majors but he’s different andthe point is that there’s a lot of freedom and not all collages, even the ivy leagues, have that. I also think that there are a lot of smart people because this is a very…rigorous school. I think one of the negatives, if any, is that it’s a very tough school. I think there are a lot of smart people so you’re like surrounded by them but the classes are really hard, it’s a state school, we don’t have grade inflation and so can be tough. It’s common to spend hours on homework but if you make it into Berkeley, want to learn a lot of cool things and the major you want is very good in Berkeley (Engineering is not the only amazing thing) then I think it’s also worth all the effort. I think Berkeley is also very diverse in subjects. I know a few chemistry majors, physics majors, pre-log, premed, and bio-engineering but that means there is a lot of people so the campus is really big and can be easy to be lost in. We also have a lot of clubs and societies of different types (music, consulting, art, engineering, tech, and such). I also think we have like the second-best rocket club in the US and also Cal is really good for research. We have amazing research and are one of the oldest colleges in the US (and the oldest University of California) so there is a lot of legacy and history.

Left: Location of the city of Berkley in the state of California.

The city promotes restaurants originating locally rather than Pan national or multinational restaurant chains.

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.The real heroes are the ones in court : Aspects of choosing law.

Shenushi Ranasinghe, Year 11

Our world requires a set of rules in order to maintain regular behavior and consistent justice. The people who ensure this is none other than the people who choose the path of Law. Peaking in the future charter for successful jobs, law secures a higher rank due to its promising benefits such as driving and influencing social change, global challenges and most importantly it is a rewarding job. You don’t have to stop there; studying Law offers a variety of specializations.

Here is a short guide on how to pursue a career in law!

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What IGCSE/AS level/ A level subjects are required for law?

Law schools often do not have strict prerequisites for specific subjects at the undergraduate level. Admissions committees are typically more interested in your overall academic performance, critical thinking abilities, writing skills, and dedication to pursue law. However, there are subjects that are preferable to take.

These are: • English: Strong language skills are essential for communication and writing in the legal profession. It also allows minimal language barriers and efficient court cases to be carried out, especially with tough clients. It also allows better analysis and writing of legislative documents.

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Mathematics: Despite not being directly inclined with law; skills such as critical thinking and logical reasoning are crucial for legal analysis and argumentation.

Acquiring these skills allows you to problem solve faster and provide realistic solutions.

Economics: Understanding economic principles can be beneficial for certain areas of law, such as business or corporate law.

Foreign Language: Depending on the jurisdiction and the focus of your legal studies, proficiency in a foreign language may be beneficial, especially for international law, which is a global opportunity. It also boosts your appeal to admission committees.

Psychology / Sociology: Understanding human behavior and society can be useful for areas of law that involve interactions between individuals and communities. It can be mainly beneficial for students to understand criminal law easier, but general psychology is applied to all fields of law.

History / Social Studies: These subjects can help you understand the historical and social context in which laws are developed and applied.

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What extracurriculars would boost your law application?

Extracurriculars are actions that give reflection to admission teams on who you are. However, Extracurriculars serve more as a skill and confidence booster rather than a very overlooked part of your application.

What admission teams look into are really LSAT scores or GRE scores.

Despite this, having this extra set of skills carry a huge advantage in law school, making the cases and courses feel familiar.

Some extracurriculars that you should consider joining: • MUN

Harvard law courses is: https://pll.harvard.edu/subject/socia l-sciences?page=1

What are the other career possibilities with a law degree?

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Diplomathon Debates World Scholar’s Cup

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Mock Trials Language Recitations Math Competitions

It's also recommended to look into internships or volunteering opportunities related to law such as the Harvard law course that happens for 3 to 10 weeks in the month of August/September. The link to the

It depends on the law degree, again whether it be LLB, Juris Doctor, BSLS or Masters. Some possibilities are: • Media: In the 21st century, the media revolves around debate culture on political issues. To interview or hold a debate of a political figure, it required facts and research to be done. This is what a law degree prepared you for since you have prior knowledge on the law and the government.

• The corporate world: Major companies require a counsel of lawyers to deal with contracts and corporate debts. Lawyers are also given the responsibility to monitor company policies and issues that the employees have. It gives a company more security W I N V I S I O N | 24

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knowing that a lawyer can release pressure and can solve a corporate related crisis.

Choosing a BSL: If choosing to have a BSL degree, your opportunities are Probation officer, law enforcement officer, legislative assistant, mediator.

Choosing a masters: If choosing to have a master’s degree, your opportunities are Police analyst or senior compliance officer.

Choosing a Juris Doctor: If choosing to have a Juris Doctor, your opportunities are Immigration lawyer, attorneyat-law, personal injury lawyer, judge, law professor, contract attorney, political affairs officer, litigation officer, labor and employment lawyer, general county.

What is the duration of a law school course? What are the types of law?

If choosing LLB, it has a duration of 34 years, depending on whether you choose to cover Constitutional Law, Civil Procedure Code, or Criminal Procedure Code. If choosing a Juris

doctor, it is also 3-4 years, but it can also be for 5 years if students choose to involve themselves in human rights/international law. The first year involves the basics of law. Then students get to pick a specific area in law to study. The types of law include: Constitutional Law, Labour Law, Family Law, Intellectual Property Law, Taxation Law, Corporate Law and Governance, Criminal Law, Environmental Law, Human Rights/ International law, Insurance Laws.

A few tips to secure a great law application according to University of Leeds: 1. While maintaining extracurriculars, LSAT or GRE exams serve more importance, so study hard for those to get accepted into higher ranked colleges.

2. Get recommendation letters to boost your application as a student who's worth accepting.

3. In your application, if there is a controversial political view, admission officers recommend imagining that you are opposing this view so that you can accordingly write statements that you can say that are not against the officers.

4. Do research on what college and what major you would like to enter, and do not be afraid to ask questions to the college.

However, it's critical to recognize that going into law may be challenging W I N V I S I O N | 25

and competitive. It frequently entails lengthy schooling requirements, heavy workloads, and long hours.

Before selecting a choice, it is crucial to conduct extensive study on the legal industry, take into account your own preferences and skills, and balance the advantages and disadvantages.

In the end, your decision to pursue a career in law should be driven by your true interest in the area and an awareness of how it complements your personal and professional objectives. If you're unsure, consulting with legal experts, career counselors, and others in your network might offer helpful insights to aid in your decisionmaking.

Glossary: BSL degree (Bachelor of Science in Law): An entry degree that allows you to graduate law school and complete masters in case they are unable to meet Juris Doctor Standards.

Criminal Procedure Code: A document which symbolizes fair trial on an enforced criminal law.

LLB (Bachelor of Laws): An undergraduate degree based in the United Kingdom and European Countries.

LSAT (Law school Admission Test): The purpose of the LSAT is to aid in predicting student success in law school. The LSAT consists of 24-26 Logical Reasoning Questions, a 400-500 word comprehension with 5-8 questions per paragraph, Logic Games, and a writing sample. The Logic Games section is regarded the hardest section.

Juris Doctor: A professional law degree based in the United States.

Links to refer to article: 1. https://www.collegesoflaw.edu/blog/2018/11/06/different-fields-of-lawexplained/ 2. https://www.uaeu.ac.ae/en/catalog/undergraduate/programs/bachelor-oflaw.shtml 3. https://www.businessinsider.com/how-much-does-law-school-cost-australiafrance-spain-2021-2 4. https://www.crimsoneducation.org/au/blog/studying-law-pathways/ 5. https://destinationcles.com/2022/06/21/lawyer-tips-andtricks/#:~:text=15%20Lawyer%20Tips%20and%20Tricks%201%201.%20Keep,8.%20Ta ke%20Advantage%20of%20Technology%20...%20More%20items

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Shivani Rajan, Year 13 Welcome to the dynamic world of Information Technology , where innovation meets functionality, and possibilities are limited only by imagination. In an era defined by digital transformation, IT has emerged as the driving force behind our lives. It has become the backbone of modern society, revolutionizing the way we live, work, and communicate.

The field of IT offers a multitude of career opportunities that cater to a wide range of skills and interests. As technology continues to shape and transform various industries, IT professionals are in high demand to digital solutions. Here are some prominent career opportunities within the IT field: Software developer: They are the architects of the virtual world, moulding ideas into functional digital marvels.

These tech visionaries craft applications that simplify tasks, entertain us, and even revolutionize industries. Their code weaves the threads that connect our daily lives, from the apps we use to the websites we visit.

Data Scientist/Analyst: Stepping into the shoes of data scientists and analysts, we encounter the modern-day wizards who wield their magic over data. Armed with statistical spells and machine learning potions, they extract insights from data to inform decision-making. They use statistical analysis and machine learning techniques to analyse large datasets and provide valuable insights to organizations. Data professionals play a crucial role in understanding customer behaviour, market trends, and business performance.

Network administrators /engineers: They chart a course through the labyrinth of networks, ensuring seamless connectivity and information flow.

These navigators keep our digital highways free from congestion, making sure that the data we send and receive arrives at its destination without delay.

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UX/UI Designer: UX/UI designers are the artists who craft the brushstrokes of our digital encounters. These designers create intuitive and userfriendly interfaces for digital products. They focus on enhancing the usability and visual appeal of websites, applications, and software to provide users with an optimal experience. These creators ensure that the bridges between humans and technology are not only efficient but also delightful to traverse.

Cybersecurity Analyst/Engineer: Cybersecurity professionals focus on safeguarding digital assets and sensitive information from cyber threats. They develop security measures, monitor networks for vulnerabilities, and respond to incidents to prevent data breaches and cyberattacks.

With the increasing reliance on technology, cybersecurity has become a critical concern

for organizations of all sizes.

Cloud architects and engineers: Cloud architects and engineers ascend to the sky, building ethereal platforms that store our digital dreams.

They design and manage cloud computing environments that enable businesses to store, manage, and access data and applications remotely. They work with cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud to optimize infrastructure and ensure scalability and reliability.

Whether you're a curious explorer, a budding developer, a tech-savvy entrepreneur, or someone who simply marvels at the power of human ingenuity, the realm of IT welcomes you with open arms. In conclusion, the career prospects in the IT field are undeniably promising, offering a diverse range of opportunities for growth and innovation

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Yumna Iqbal, Year 13 If there's a requirement that is common to almost all universities, it's IELTS. It's not just another English exam; it's that one step that gets you closer to your university admission. This guide will serve as a starter for your IELTS preparation. IELTS simply tests how well you understand and communicate in English in your day-to-day life. There are four sections; your overall band score will be the average of these, out of band 9.

However, before moving on to some of the tips that I have for you, here’s a bit about my own experience of IELTS. I booked for the IELTS computer-based test through the British Council. My overall band score was 8.5; with a 9 in listening, 8.5 in reading, 7.5 in writing, and 8.5 in speaking.

Personally, I struggled the most with writing and speaking. This was because I had no way to check how good/bad I was doing in these sections, however, looking at model answers proved to be genuinely beneficial. Listening is the most scoring section in this exam, just a few days of vigorous practice helped me to perform better. The rest was just faith on the day of the exam that whatever comes out of this would be good.

Here are some tips that will prove useful for you if you are planning to sit the IELTS. Listening: In this section, you have 4 tasks, 40 questions, and 30 minutes. You will hear audio recordings that can be conversations, speeches, or presentations based on social or academic settings, and you will answer questions accordingly. The recording cannot be paused and can only be played once.

Spelling matters; in the IELTS exam, there is no indication of a misspelt word. Moreover, while answering, you may have to change word classes, such as paraphrasing a noun into a verb. Questions may be in the form of MCQs, fill-in-the-blanks for flowcharts, maps, and processes, and matching the correct statements. The best way to improve in this section is to practise listening tests available online, timing and grading yourself accordingly. To achieve a band score of 8 or above, you need to get at least 35 out of 40. Reading: This also consists of 40 questions; however, you have 60 minutes for 3 reading passages, with Task 1 being the easiest and Task 3 the hardest. The best way to tackle this is to use skimming and scanning for the first two tasks and spending around 25 minutes on the third.

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The types of questions greatly vary, ranging from multiple choice to true/false/not given, and matching headings/paragraphs. Understand which type is the hardest for you and practise that.

Try enhancing skills such as skimming and scanning by reading articles and long essays. Look out for keywords in the text and the question, such as pronouns or dates, which will help you locate your answer in the passage. You do not always have to read the entire passage to find answers; analyse the keywords in the question first and jump to the relevant paragraphs.

Keywords include pronouns (names, places, etc.), important dates or any other information that will stand out in the paragraph and will easily help you locate your answer.

Writing: This section has a marking criteria that your answer should cater to. You have 2 tasks and 60 minutes; however, the tasks do not have the same weightage. Task 1 carries fewer marks, and the word limit is 150 words. This task relates to describing unbiased data, such as different types of graphs, processes, or maps. The strategy here is to paraphrase words efficiently because while describing, you are likely to use the same word multiple times. Make sure to have a list of important words/phrases that can be used to describe a trend in the graph, such as exponential/steady increase, fluctuations in the data, reaching a plateau, and more.

In Task 2, you will be given a stance and will have to compare the advantages or disadvantages, give your opinion (agree/disagree), or discuss a problem and present plausible solutions to it. The word limit is 250 words, and the examiner will deduct marks if you do not answer every part of the question. For both tasks, four marking criteria are used: task achievement/response, lexical resource, coherence and cohesion, and grammatical range and accuracy. It is salient to note that you need to satisfy the word limit; going over is alright, but remember to not write less as you will lose marks. A beneficial way to practise writing is to compare your answer with the model answers available online.

They will provide you with a piece of paper and pencil (if giving a computerised test), do make use of it to quickly brainstorm ideas. Do not begin writing before having a clear map in your mind for the ideas and vocabulary, without this you will be taking up more time and will be confused in the middle of the exam.

Speaking: This section is usually feared the most, and the best tip for this is to stay calm and keep the conversation natural since it is similar to an informal interview. The more nervous you are, the more likely you are to mess up. This usually lasts between 11-15 minutes and is divided into 3 parts. The entire conversation is recorded and marked based on the criteria of fluency and coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation. The

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examiner will first ask you your name and your whereabouts and they will check your identification. Part 1 and 2 questions are about your personal experiences, while in part 3 you will be asked follow-up questions relating to the topics in part 2. For part 3, it is good to have an extra read about common discussions such as those related to the environment, healthcare, or those of general interest.

An easy way to practise is to choose a random topic from past IELTS questions and record yourself as you speak. Listen to this recording and you will understand if you are fluent enough, if you are making any grammatical errors, and if you are repeating a particular word too many times. Don't forget to look out for videos of Band 8 and 9 candidates and listen to their flow of speech.

Another general piece of advice would be to create a vocabulary sheet. Don't let this be just a piece of paper with random words scribbled all over it. Gather a few of the common topics in IELTS, such as education, law, environment, etc., and note down important words and phrases under each of these. This will give you an instant flow of words for any individual topic. However, don't try to fit every fancy word you know; the examiners can understand that this is not natural, both in writing and speaking, and you may lose marks for that. There is a vast range of resources available online; however, depending on where you book your test from, you can get access to free lectures and mock tests. All it takes is 2 weeks of perseverance, and you will be able to ace this exam.

You may still have a few questions that are left unanswered, to help you here are a few things that may clear your doubts.

When should someone consider giving IELTS? The best time to sit for IELTS is the summer vacation after Year 12. One reason for this is that IELTS is valid for 2 years and this leaves enough time for someone planning to do a gap year.

Are there any specific websites that can help in the preparation?

Since I booked my test with the British Council, they offered a free preparation service ‘GEL IELTS prep’. It had videos fully explaining key concepts and useful tips for each section.

There are also a bunch of practice questions available, both for individual sections and as full mock tests too, they also have model answers available. There are various other platforms available on the internet that can be helpful.

You can also find a series of books to help you prepare, this can be found here: https://testieltsonline.com/cambridge-ieltsseries-01-17-pdf-audio-cd/ I used these to specifically practice listening and reading.

Should I take the computerised or the written test?

The computerised test is not only overall more comfortable, but you can also receive your results within 3 - 5 days. In the writing test, you have to copy your answers to another answering sheet, however, this is not the case in the computerised one, all you have to do is select options just as you would in a quiz.

However, if you are someone who would not prefer to type in essays, then go for the written test.

How many test cycles are available?

There are around 48 tests available each year.

However, there is no restriction on the gap of days if you are retaking it, you can do that anytime you feel you are ready.

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Anagha Rohit, Year 12

International education holds immense global significance in today's interconnected world. It encompasses the exchange of knowledge, ideas, and cultural understanding among students from different countries. The top nations to study in can vary depending on your subject of interest, career objectives, language preferences, and personal preferences. Due to their excellent educational systems and varied cultural experiences, the three nations listed below are frequently regarded as the top choices for international students:

United States: The United States has a large number of renowned universities and a broad selection of academic programs. It is well regarded for its research and innovation, particularly in the business, social sciences, engineering, and technology sectors. Additionally, because of the country's diversity of cultures and ethnicities, international students can engage with people from all over the world and extend their horizons in a stimulating atmosphere. Your English language abilities can be enhanced while studying in an English-speaking nation like the United States, which is beneficial for intercultural communication and potential job opportunities. Additionally, American institutions frequently have robust alumni networks that can offer beneficial contacts and resources for future professional ventures. Numerous colleges offer complete support services,

such as academic advising, career counselling, health services, and cultural integration programs in the United States, to foreign students. Most significantly, degrees from prominent American universities are valued and generally recognized around the world, which can improve your employment prospects wherever you decide to work.

Cost of Living: The cost of living in the USA varies by location. In major cities, monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from $1,500 to $3,500.

Groceries for one person might cost $200 to $400 per month, while dining out could be $10 to $30 per meal. Public transit costs around $70 to $120 monthly. Utility bills (electricity, heating, cooling, water) may be $100 to $300. Healthcare expenses, including insurance, can range from $500 to $1,500 per year. Entertainment and miscellaneous costs are approximately $100 to $300 per month. These figures are estimates and can differ based on factors like city size and lifestyle.

Visa and immigration process: University students planning to study in the USA typically apply for an F-1 student visa. After receiving an acceptance letter from a US university, they obtain the Form I-20, pay the SEVIS fee, and complete the DS160 form. Then, they pay the visa application fee and schedule a visa interview at a US embassy or consulate. The interview W I N V I SW I OI N N V| I32 S I O N | 32

assesses their intent to study, ties to their home country, and financial ability. If approved, students can enter the US up to 30 days before their program begins. Upon arrival, they undergo customs inspection and receive an F-1 visa stamp in their passport, along with an I-94 record.

United Kingdom: The UK is a well-liked choice for several academic fields, including the humanities, sciences, and arts. In comparison to other nations, the UK offers a variety of cultural experiences and various programs with shorter durations.

International students are frequently given complete support services by UK universities, such as orientation sessions, academic counselling, and help with visas and housing. Additionally, the UK offers post-study work visas that enable graduates to remain in the country to work for a specific amount of time after receiving their degree and permits overseas students to work part-time during their studies. In addition to helping with living expenses, this might offer beneficial professional experience.

The UK has an incredibly diverse cultural landscape, with everything from historical sites and museums to theaters and music festivals. Outside of your academics, there is always something to do and see.

Because of its proximity to mainland Europe, the United Kingdom is an appealing starting point for visiting other European countries and cultures.

Cost Of Living: The cost of living in the UK varies with location. In cities like London, monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from £1, 200 to £2,500. Groceries for one person might cost £150 to £300 monthly, with restaurant meals at £10 to £30 per meal. Public transportation costs approximately £60 to £150 per month. Utility bills (electricity, heating, cooling, water) can be around

£100 to £150. Healthcare expenses, including the National Health Service (NHS) coverage, are funded through taxes. Entertainment and miscellaneous costs are roughly £100 to £300 per month. Costs fluctuate based on the city and individual preferences.

Visa and immigration process: University students heading to the UK usually require a Tier 4 (General) student visa. Upon receiving a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from their chosen institution, they apply online, pay the visa fee, and the Immigration Health Surcharge.

Financial evidence may be required. Biometrics are taken at a visa application center. Students attend an interview, if necessary. Upon approval, they can enter the UK up to 30 days before their course starts. At the border, they undergo checks and collect a Biometric Residence Permit. During their studies, students must comply with visa conditions, including attendance and academic progress.

Canada: Canada is well-known for its kind people and high-quality education. It strikes a fair mix between low tuition and outstanding academic offerings. Natural sciences, engineering, and technology are very strong in Canadian universities.

Many world-renowned universities and colleges in Canada provide high-quality education and cuttingedge research possibilities. Canadian universities are well-known for their outstanding academic programs and broad course offerings. Canada has routinely ranked among the world's safest countries. Because of its low crime rate, the country provides a safe atmosphere for international students. The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) permits graduates to work in Canada for up to three years after finishing their education, giving significant work experience as well as a potential avenue to permanent residency. In addition, Canada is a bilingual country. This allows students to develop their language skills in either language, increasing their employment and communication abilities. Canada is famous for its breathtaking natural scenery, which range from the Rocky Mountains to huge forests and beautiful lakes.

During their time in W I N V I S I O N | 33 W I N V I S I O N | 33

appreciate these natural treasures.

Cost of living: The cost of living in Canada varies depending on the city. In major urban centers like Toronto and Vancouver, monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranges from $1,200 to $2,500.

Groceries for one person might cost $200 to $400 monthly, while eating out could be $10 to $30 per meal. Public transit costs around $100 to $150 monthly. Utility bills (electricity, heating, cooling, water) may range from $80 to $150. Healthcare expenses are covered by Canada's publicly funded system. Entertainment and other expenses can average $100 to $300 per month. Costs are influenced by location and personal choices.

Visa and immigration process: University students aiming to study in Canada typically apply for a study permit. After receiving an acceptance letter from a Canadian university, they apply online, provide a biometrics fee, and may require a medical examination. Proof of funds to cover tuition and living costs is necessary. Upon approval, they receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction and may need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). At the Canadian port of entry, a study permit is issued.

Throughout their studies, students must comply with study permit conditions, including enrolment and academic progress.

Cultural experiences: University students in the United States, United Kingdom and Canada can immerse themselves in a diverse range of cultural experiences that might boost their studies and personal development. Here are some cultural opportunities for university students: 1. Campus Diversity: Many institutions in the United States have varied student populations, providing opportunities to interact with classmates from various cultural origins and learn about different traditions.

2. International Student Associations: Through events, workshops, and social activities, international student associations can provide insights into cultures from throughout the world.

3.

Study Abroad Programs: Many US institutions offer study abroad programs that allow students to immerse themselves in the culture of another country while furthering their education.

4. Cultural groups and Organizations: Cultural groups that promote certain cultural identities or interests, such as African Student Associations, Asian Cultural Clubs, or Hispanic/Latinx Student Organizations, are common at universities.

5. Language Exchange Programs: Participate in language exchange programs to strengthen your language abilities and learn about the cultures linked with the languages you study.

6. Ethnic Festivals and Events: Attend multicultural festivals and events on campus or in the local community to learn about different ethnic performances, foods, and traditions.

6. International Food & Cuisine: Visit local restaurants or food festivals that provide international cuisine, allowing you to sample a variety of cuisines from around the world. diversity awareness, and cultural sensitivity are routinely organized by universities.

7. Local Cultural Attractions: Visit museums, historical sites, cultural centers, and neighborhoods that highlight the area's variety.

8. Opportunities for Networking: Create a varied network of friends and acquaintances from various backgrounds, cultivating cross-cultural connections that can benefit you professionally and personally.

However, it is crucial to note that, while the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada provide numerous benefits, each student's experience may differ depending on personal preferences, academic ambitions, cultural differences, and unique circumstances. Before deciding to study in any of these locations, extensively examine universities, programs, fees, and visa requirements to confirm that they correspond with your goals and objectives.

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Career Advice for students Hannah Fernando, Alumni

Embarking on your journey from high school to university is an exciting step in your future career.

But it can be daunting at the same time. Being an alumni of The Winchester School and having graduated in 2022, I’m here to give you some advice on how to navigate through this.

Before selecting a course or university, the most important thing to do is assess your strengths, understand your interests and goals you wish to achieve in the future. This will be your first step to understanding what you want to study and where you wish to study it. I understood from an early age that I was passionate about everything related to art. Creativity was my strength, and that was how I narrowed my career path towards Architectural Design.

Once you’ve identified the fields you’re interested in, the next thing to do is research. Look beyond just the names and rankings of universities and focus on the course content, networks, accreditations, and the country itself that it is located in. Make an informed decision on not just the university itself but be confident in the country/region where you will be living.

Now comes the application process. My biggest advice: START EARLY! Every university has its own set of requirements, and deadlines. In my opinion, give

yourself at least 6 months before the university intake, to start your applications.

The most difficult part of this entire journey is, balancing your academics whilst applying to university.

This is a challenge, but one that students all over the world have faced and come through.

Time management is the most important skill that will allow you to complete everything that needs to be done in the least stressful manner. Plan ahead, prioritize your studies and during breaks/holidays make sure you follow up on your university application(s). One of the main things to keep in mind is that people all around you wish for nothing but the best for you, and are always willing to help.

If there’s anything that you have a doubt on or you’re not sure about, ask around. It’s better to clear doubts than not being sure and hoping for the best. University is a big jump from high school and can be stressful. But everyone has done it, and you can too! While there are a lot of things to keep in mind, it is important to remind yourself that you are surrounded by people that are going through the same thing. Prepare yourself but at the same time, enjoy the journey, and learn from every experience that it takes you on!

I wish you all the best!

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Career Advice for students Demuni Lhini, Alumni

Explore different fields, follow your passions, and don’t be afraid to take risks.

Network with professionals in your desired industry, gain practical experience through internships, and continuously learn and adapt.

When it comes to exploring different fields, don’t limit yourself to just one option. Take the time to research and learn about various industries that interest you.

Follow your passions and pursue a career that aligns with your interests and values.

Don’t be afraid to take risks and step out of your comfort zone. Sometimes the most rewarding opportunities come from taking

a leap of faith. Practical experience is invaluable hence seeking out internships or part-time jobs in your field of interest to gain hands-on experience and learn from professionals is the most beneficial way of understanding your career.

And most importantly don’t be afraid to embrace failure.

It’s a natural part of the journey and can lead to valuable lessons and growth.

Stay proactive and seek out opportunities for personal and professional development. Build a strong personal brand by showcasing your skills and accomplishments.

It was great to meet our WIN Alumni Hannah, Demuni and Dewanya at school on August 28th, 2023.

A lot of career related advice, motivation was gained from them. We believe every student looks forward to learning something important from our alumni, who once dreamt of being in their aspired careers.

I N V I S I O N | 36 WINVISIONW | 36

Expert ADVICE

A n I n t er vi e w b y Hi y a Ch o pr a & A div a Ka po or Q1. We would like to know about your responsibilities as the deputy manager at Al Hoty Stanger laboratories.

Good afternoon to the both of you. First and foremost thank you for having me on, especially to be able to shed some light on career choices to the kids from your school.

My name is Christopher Rajamani, I've been working with Al Hoty Stanger laboratories for the past 28 years. We have around 420 staff on board, and we do a lot of background checks or testing for the construction sites, for the hotels, and hospitality. So basically, we are the front line of testing before it goes on to the health sector. For example, if we test the water and it is contaminated, we arrest it there itself so that you don’t drink the water and we kill the microbes in the beginning itself before it goes to you, and you start drinking the water and it causes an epidemic. So that’s our job! We keep the air and the environment secure.

Q2. What encouraged you to pursue your current career?

Actually, to be frank, it was failure that allowed me to pursue my career. I wanted to join the Indian Army, but I did my test maybe four times, passed my written test but I couldn’t cut through the interview. The Indian Army doesn't take people whose psychology is not right, and used to take psychometric tests (which is what you guys do right now) to see if your mind is good enough for the Indian Army. So if your psych isn’t setting up, they never take you, which was sort of a depressive phase for me. Then, when I found that there were openings for chemists,

because that was the basics of what I did, I found that I could still protect the community by doing testing. I managed to get into, albeit, my father’s friend owned the company, and he set me up there as a chemist and that's when my career started. So it was partly a success, partly a failure.

Q3. What do you consider to be the most prominent factor while choosing your career choice?

Basically, it was pure passion. My dad was in the army, and I grew up in an Army tenement, that is the Maratha Light Infantry regiment in Belgaum. I was surrounded by military activity, and that was the only option I could see for me to get into the Indian army.

So it truly was passion and I wanted to follow what my dad did. But what the Indian Army does is out of this world. They really take care of us unknowingly in the background.

They have the air force, the army and the navy, all three of them are playing a huge role in keeping the country safe, so I thought I could go towards that side. But for that you needed a degree for which I had to study chemistry with biology and maths as supporting subjects as well as physics too but this didn’t work. I then chose chemistry to get into my line of work. Mostly it’s passion, W I N V I S I O N | 37

but sometimes you don’t get what you want in life.

Q4. At what time were you sure about your career choices? Was this career field always your choice?

Yeah, like I said, after I completed my graduation, I think it was 4 years of actually deciding, because in the first year after graduation, I couldn’t cut into the Indian Army, so I still kept on trying after a couple of years and at the same time I started working in this testing laboratory. The salaries in those days were not great for an intern, you know, for startups - like an assistant, but during those 5-6 years what helped me was the job that seasoned me. I came out from a very secured environment into an industrial one. I had to work shifts, you know, I had to discipline myself: pack my food, go to the office, and it was quite far off. Usually industries in India are not in the suburbs, they are quite far off into the industrial areas and villages. They are zones and you have to plan your stuff for that. So, those 3 or 4 years were the years that seasoned me and I started looking at more opportunities outside, and when I saw Al Hoty’s advertisement placed in the newspaper, they called us to Mumbai and I got selected from there. Only a few of us got selected from the 40 or 50 over there, came across to the UAE and a new life started.

Q5. Any obstacles you had to face while pursuing the path to your career?

Oh yeah, financial. Because my dad had retired from the Indian Army, we didn’t have much. I had a sister who was studying, I was studying, I even had a younger brother who was studying and he was quite unwell. So, finance was a problem. For this, what my sister and I used to do was that from grade five, we used to go out and give tuitions, and

that was the cash flow in the house. So, from grade five we never stressed out our parents by saying “buy clothes for us”, “pay my school fees”. My sister was here last week and we reminisced about that time. But that was just to face life. Yeah, so this was the driving point for us. And our parents were quite supportive and then like I said, as reputation goes, in those days kids used to come to houses for tuitions, but my sister and myself we turned it around and started going to other peoples houses to give tuitions and that helped us to balance the cash flow and at the same time we gave our best to our studies. We couldn’t get into engineering or medical fields though we had the marks because we didn’t have the punch to do it, as children should have. We chose what was closer to us, where we could do well. And then, I went into chemistry, because you didn't have to pay much fees, as compared to engineering and medicine, and neither was there any pressure, as it was easier for me and less heavier on my parents. There were two things which were against us: one was money and second was influence. In those days, there were no entrance exams like what you have now, NEET and everything has come after a long time. It was all about influence. It was all about money.

Adiva: Q6. Were there any specific initiatives or certifications that helped to further enhance your career in this field?

Oh yeah. See I’m a technical guy, so when I joined Al Hoty it was technical, purely technical. Like testing of food, water, steel and stuff. But then after 4 or 5 years with Al Hoty, I realised that this is not enough. It would limit my growth. I started looking around and saw that there were Masters in business administration available. In those days it was not online and we used to call it a summer school, so I checked around and W I N V I S I O N | 38

the best one was from Leicester University of UK, where they used to have a weekly class here. I entered the course to do my masters in business administration and after three years, I completed it successfully and that helped me to look for a better position in the Al Hoty group, as that gave me a lot of input in finance, which doesn't come with chemistry and microbiology as finance is important to run any business.

Q7. Can you recommend any specific resources or books that students can explore to gain more knowledge about your industry?

My industrial books would be very boring. So I wouldn't recommend it to you to read. I think your studies would be enough to get into your industry. However, having said that, there were some books that helped me along the way for self realisation. I mean, my work could be different to yours but at the end of the day it is work that provides form. I suggest that students read books by authors like Paulo Cohelo. He's written a book called The Alchemist, which was life changing for me after I read it. His books are very deep and it's not about a specific genre, it’s more about life and humanity and how a lot of things happen in life and if you seize them, you will achieve them.

Q8. What all have been your greatest strengths and how have they contributed to your career success?

My greatest strength has been a good education. I’ve studied at a wonderful school, called St. Paul's High School, in Belgaum. I had wonderful teachers and those teachers are the ones who inspired me to become what I am today. My parents also have been always helpful with whatever choice I make.

One of the most important things I always used to tell children would be stage activities.

I’ve always noticed that students who participate in stage activities: drama, debate, music, etc, these students excel in life compared to other students. I might be biased here but this is what I have found. It’s very clear, you do an analysis of the top 5 students in the UAE and 4 out of 5 are the students who have been part of the stage. So you need to be risky. You need to learn to be risky, you need to have the courage to go on stage. You will do well, if you go out in the open and speak to people.

Q9. According to you, what skills should a student start to build for their future career?

I think one of the most important skills is independence. You need to be independent.

For example, you need to start making your own decisions rather than leaning on your parents and waiting on them to make a decision for you. Once you start making your own decisions, you should take responsibility for what you do, and I think that is the most important skill a child of high school should learn. Secondly, courtesy and etiquette manners. I have found that a lot of students, whom I talk to now, are not very forthcoming in the way they talk to you, which probably is because of the media and other distracting things. So that is another skill that you need to develop. Physical skills, I’ve already explained to you that this will go a long way for you. You need to pick up any sport, like badminton or table tennis or swimming, and W I N V I S I O N | 39

spend at least 15 to 30 minutes everyday, that’ll help you a lot. Because sometimes when you go to work or university, you might not get a chance to eat a single morsel of food for the whole day. You’ll have to sustain yourself with what you had in the morning, so you need to develop that mental and physical set. Next one is reading. I don't see anybody reading nowadays. People are all on their gadgets. The other day I was in the airport, and I was watching and seeing how many people were reading a book and believe me it is sad I couldn't find anybody reading a book. The thing is with reading a book, you visualise things in your own mind, but when you’re watching content made by somebody else, it’s readymade. They are just feeding you something and you’re taking it. But, reading is a skill which is lost nowadays and it’s sad, very very sad. My son used to read, but my daughter doesn't read at all. It pains me actually. She’s more on the gadgets and things like that, so it is becoming a lost art but people who read again will do well in life, because it gives you microscopic views into a lot of different stuff. Last and most important skill is kindness. I find people aren't kind to each other nowadays. Kindness is very important. Everybody is so busy they don't have time to talk to you, even on the roads when you are driving…it’s a lost skill.

So these few things are what I find missing.

Once children pack them into their school bag along with their studies, they will do well automatically. Simple as that.

Q10. In this constantly evolving world, an array of opportunities are provided to students as they navigate their path towards their aspired careers. How have you embraced these ongoing transformations?

For the past three years, it started with COVID. When these types of disasters

occur, what happens is the human mind tends to adjust to it. Most of the world went digital. For example, earlier people used to ask us to deliver hardcopies of reports and invoices, and without that they used to not pay you. Now, all the clients tell us to “send it online”. During the COVID, we had time, so we prepared by starting to restructure our systems and we went digital, I think maybe last month, after all these three or four years, because we had to permit around 2000 test complexes into the system. And it was not easy with all four branches, mainly dealing with people's minds because people don’t like change. People absolutely don’t like change. So we had to change their mindset to go on to digital. Last week we had a student here who is studying in The University of Toronto and I asked him to do a sustainability study of four buildings of Al Hoty, in terms of electricity usage, fuel usage, water usage and paper usage. So he’s mapped everything for us and we plan to reduce over dependence on water, electricity, fuel and paper over the period of six months. We have started out a strategy for instance, we’ll use occupancy sensors here and instead of 6 six lights we’ll only use two lights exactly in the centre, and will cut down on 4 light panels. Same thing with air cons. It will be with occupancy sensors. The moment I walk out from here automatically it will shut off. So these types of things we will try to reduce costs, because the secret of running a good company today is reducing your costs. And companies are going to answer in the future “What are you doing about sustainability? Are you wasting electricity? Are you wasting fuel? Are you wasting water? How have you controlled these things?” so these are the things we’ve put in place now. Surely, the future is going to be all about sustainability!

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It was truly inspiring and wonderful to interview Mr Christopher Rajamani, the Deputy General Manager at Al Hoty Stanger Laboratories, working here for the past 28 years. Here is the podcast link and QR Code for the same: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/hiya32

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