Mr Zey's Hi-Ed Corner <> December 4, 2009

 
Why study in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands long tradition as a trading nation has given it an open, international society, where nearly everyone speaks English. And with its strong manufacturing and service sector, this country offers much expertise to the aspiring higher education student. Standards are high, and costs are low since all levels of education are subsidized through taxes. As expected higher education institutes have to meet the Ministry of Education guidelines on standards.   

Eight DP1 students (pictured above) met with a delegation of three Maastricht university officials on Thursday afternoon, in order to be informed of available English medium courses. Here are a few examples of what is available in English at Maastricht University:
·         BSc International Business
·         BSc Economics and Business Economics / International Business Economics
·         BSc Economics and Business Economics / Infonomics
·         BSc Econometrics and Operations Research
·         University College Maastricht, liberal arts and science course to the Bachelor’s level.
The university offers scholarships for the top 3% academically high–scoring students: IE No tuition fees are charged! To find out about all the English medium courses taught at Maastricht, click on the link below: http://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/web/Main/ProspectiveStudents2/BachelorsProgrammes/Programmes.htm
 
Other Higher Education News
 
Oulu University of Applied Sciences in Finland
This is most appealing to students who have an affinity for wilderness, fresh-air, skiing and open spaces. A number of courses are available through the medium of English. Find out more by visiting the university site: http://www.oamk.fi/english/
 
Jacobs University, Bremen, Germany
Offers the full-spectrum of higher education courses in English. For details visit the university site:
http://www.jacobs-university.de/
 
Ipag: Ecole Superiore de Commerce in Paris and Nice
This is a joint venture between Paris Riviera Business School and Nottingham Business School. More at
http://www.ipag.fr/en/home.html
 
Leiden University College: LUC
Leiden, one of the oldest universities in the world is the latest to offer an English medium liberal arts and science Bachelor’s programme. It is set to begin in September 2010. More at: http://www.lucthehague.nl/
 
The HongKong University of Technology
A rising star in the Far East that offers all  courses in English as well as Chinese. Merit based scholarships are available. More at: http://www.ust.hk/eng/index.htm
 
University Letter of Recommendation
Virtually all universities expect a letter of recommendation from a prospective applicant’s school. Such letters serve to present applicants as eligible candidates for their chosen course. Over the years, the higher education guidance office has developed a strategy for generating accurate and representative recommendations. It works as follows: students approach two of their teachers for a paragraph in support of their application. These two paragraphs are then integrated into a page-long letter by me, which usually includes predicted final [IB] examination scores. Since predicted grades are largely based on student progress and performance in DP1, students do well to stay focused on their studies in DP1.
 
 
Career Review: The  IT  Industry

Key IT skills in demand
1) Machine learning: As companies work to build software such as collaborative filtering, spam filtering and fraud-detection applications that seek patterns in jumbo-size data sets, some observers are seeing a rapid increase in the need for people with machine-learning knowledge, or the ability to design and develop algorithms and techniques to improve computers' performance. Demand for these applications is expanding the need for data mining, statistical modeling and data structure skills, among others. You can acquire machine-learning knowledge either through job experience or advanced undergraduate or graduate coursework, But no matter how you do it, "companies are snapping up these skills as fast as they can grab them.
2) Mobilizing applications: The race to deliver content over mobile devices is akin to the wild days of the Internet during the '90s, says Sean Ebner, vice president of professional services at Spherion Pacific Enterprises, a recruiter in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
3) Wireless networking: With the proliferation of de facto wireless standards such as Wi-Fi, WiMax and Bluetooth, securing wireless transmissions is top-of-mind for employers seeking technology talent, says Neill Hopkins, vice president of skills development for the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA). "There's lots of wireless technologies taking hold, and companies are concerned about how do these all fit together, and what are the security risks, which are much bigger than on wired networks," he says.
4) Human-computer interface: Another area that will see growing demand is human-computer interaction or user interface design, Scott says, which is the design of user interfaces for the Web or desktop applications. "There's been more recognition over time that it's not OK for an engineer to throw together a shoddy interface," he says. Thanks to companies like Apple Inc., he continues, "consumers are increasingly seeing well-designed products, so why shouldn't they demand that in every piece of software they use?"
5) Project management: Project managers have always been in high demand, but with growing intolerance for overbudget or failed projects, the ones who can prove that they know what they're doing are very much in demand, says Grant Gordon, managing director at Overland Park, Kan.-based staffing firm Intronic Solutions Group.
6) General networking skills: No matter where you work in IT, you can no longer escape the network, and that has made it crucial for non-networking professionals, such as software engineers, to have some basic understanding of networking concepts, Scott says. At the very least, they should brush up on networking basics, such as TCP/IP, Ethernet and fiber optics, he says, and have a working knowledge of distributed and networked computing. "There's an acute need for people writing applications deployed in data centers to be aware of how their applications are using the network," Scott says.
 
Visit the site http://www.computerworld.com/ to find out about the remaining IT skills in demand.
 
IT jobs that begin with the letter ‘a’ include: A 3D modeller, Analyst programmer, Animator, Application security analyst, Application security designer, Application security implementer, Archivist, Artificial intelligence programmer and Audio programmer For jobs beginning with b and ending in z go to: http://www.infotech.monash.edu.au/promotion/itcareer.html
 
You can read this newsletter on line at http://www.isse-school.nl/HiEd/2009.htm

Parents and students can contact me by phone during school hours [040-2927673] and by email: mrzey@live.nl  

 

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Mr Zey's Hi-Ed Corner <> November 10, 2009
 
What is higher education for?
This is a good moment to answer the question succinctly. There are two important benefits:
a) A place to acquire knowledge and skills that enable students learn to function as independent and productive individuals in society.
b) To lay down the necessary foundations for a professional careers. 
 
University and College: Is there a difference?
A college is an institution that typically offers four years of post-high school education and few, if any, graduate programmes. A university, on the other hand, usually includes undergraduate and post-graduate departments. Post-graduate study leads to a master's, a doctorate, or a professional degree. The latter two degrees are required to enter a profession such as medicine, law, or dentistry. A Hogeschool (HBO course) in the Netherlands can be seen as a typical college, even though it prepares students for the Bachelor's degree in practical careers, such as hotel management or art and design. For more on this topic, see October issue of this newsletter.
 
DP2 Students
Most UK and US-bound ISSE students have registered and started the long and arduous application process for securing a place. This is time-consuming and applicants are urged not apply to more than 5 institutes, as in the end, they will be judged by their IB diploma results, and not by the number of applications.
 
Oxford Study Courses
Particularly useful for DP students who are behind in one or two subjects, and can use a boost during the spring holidays, just before the final examinations. Details at http://www.osc-ib.com/
 
Open Days
Netherlands bound students are still in the process of selecting universities/HBOs by visiting them on Open Days. Major Upcoming Open Days in November, includes the following:
 
Fri: 20 Leiden, Amsterdam and Twente.
Sat: 21  Radboud, Leiden, Maastricht, Leiden and Fontys, Eindhoven
 
For more information about Open Days and courses in the Netherlands, collect a brochure from room 16.
 
DP1 Students
On Thursday 26 November, a delegation of two Maastricht university representatives would visit us here at school in order to inform DP1 students about all their English medium courses. This will begin at 14:45, immediately after the last lesson in room 101 (computer room). Don’t miss it! ISSE parents are welcome to attend.
 
Useful Hi-Ed links
English medium courses NL: http://www.nuffic.nl/international-students/study-options/ispac_search_form
For course and grade requirements and eventually on-line application procedure: http://www.ucas.com/
Useful short video clips about how the UK universities application is organized: http://www.ucas.tv/
UK university statistics and other useful data: http://www.unistats.com/
Mr Zey's Hi-Ed site: http://home.tiscali.nl/fishnet/
UK University Open Days: http://www.opendays.com/
More on personal statements and application procedure: http://www.isse-school.nl/HiEd/ucas.htm
Costs and access to UK universities, with useful tips. This a downloadable Word document: http://www.isse-school.nl/HiEd/Cost-of-UK-Unis-Update09.doc
 
Career Review: Television, film and video production
This career would appeal to candidates who enjoy being pushed to the limits of their physical and intellectual endurance. Film editors often work under a great deal of pressure. It is not unusual for editors to work more than twelve hours per day, especially when they have to meet a deadline. Editors use their eyes constantly and work late at night in front of computers, causing many of them to suffer from eye-strain.
 
Since they work closely with producers and directors, they must remain alert, sociable, and responsive in spite of the demands placed upon them. Television editors who work on news shows must work rapidly and accurately so that their programmes meet broadcast deadlines and standards.
 
Links about TV and video production:
 
http://www.ucreative.ac.uk/index.cfm?articleid=10348
http://www.canterbury.ac.uk/courses/prospectus/undergraduate/c.asp?courseUrl=film-radio-and-television-studies
 
You can read this newsletter on line at http://www.isse-school.nl/HiEd/2009.htm

Parents and students can contact me by phone during school hours [040-2927673] and by email: mrzey@live.nl   

Mr Zey's Hi- Ed Corner <> October 1, 2009
 
Alumni Reunion September 5, 2009
A record number of ISSE alumni (in excess of 100) travelled to Eindhoven in order to celebrate the anniversary of their graduation or departure from the ISSE. Almost every graduate of the year 1999 attended the reunion. 1989 graduates, some with their families, also made a special effort to be with one another. For the first time, there were significant numbers of parents of the alumni too.
If you wish to view more reunion pictures, simply visit the alumni web site at: http://home.vianetworks.nl/users/isse/

The ISSE alumni association is a valuable institution as it provides us with feedback about universities and careers that work out best for our prospective graduates.

Find out what our 2009 graduates are up to: http://www.isse-school.nl//HiEd/destination2.htm
 
DP2 Students
 
Students seeking admission into UK or US universities should be busy finalizing their application. Students contemplating applying to Cambridge or Oxford University (not possible to apply to both). and, those with plans for a UK medical career (Human or veterinary), the application deadline is October 15. I would like to see all UK applicants to work to the October 15 deadline in order to maximize their chances of receiving favourable offers.
The adoption of the IB Diploma by a growing number of UK secondary schools has led to universities demanding and expecting higher diploma scores from prospective IB applicants. The recession has also had a negative effect on the supply of places, which appears not to be growing as fast as demand. This boils down to our students having to work much harder throughout the year in order to keep up with the stiff competition for places.

 
 
The above Table [4.3] lists the top 20 most competitive UK universities. Before choosing any of these universities/courses, students should conduct research (see links below) to ensure that the admission grade requirement is within their capability and reach.

Useful links for university applications
For course and grade requirements and eventually on-line application procedure: http://www.ucas.com/
Useful short video clips about how the UK universities application is organized: http://www.ucas.tv/
UK university statistics and other useful data: http://www.unistats.com/
Mr Zey's Hi-Ed site: http://home.tiscali.nl/fishnet/
UK University Open Days: http://www.opendays.com/
More on personal statements and application procedure: http://www.isse-school.nl/HiEd/ucas.htm

New: View the highest ranking top 200 universities of the world.

Going to university in the UK is expensive: true or false? I need 36 IB points to get into a UK university: true or false? Anne Edwards, an ISSE mum, whose son and daughter have gone from the ISSE to UK universities, and whose 3rd child is in the middle of applying right now, has updated her article on going to university in the UK.Use the link below to find out: whether you will be classed as an EU or International student how much tuition fees will cost if you will be eligible for UK tuition and / or maintenance loans if you can get money from the Dutch government (studiefinanciering from IB-Groep) where you will live and how much it will cost how many IB points you will need to achieve how there are so many universities in the UK how important sports, hobbies and social life are when to start looking at information online and visiting universities in the flesh when to apply Here's the link to the 2009 edition, now online: http://www.isse-school.nl/HiEd/Cost-of-UK-Unis-Update09.doc

 Upcoming Higher Education Fairs

Scope on the Globe, this annual fair is on 8 -10 October 2009 at the Jaarbeurs Exhibition Centre in Utrecht, which is next to the railway station. More @ http://www.scopeontheglobe.com/
 
Het Stedelijk College Eindhoven also organises higher education fairs. Students must First register on line. More @ http://www.svstedelijk.nl/wo/index.php
 
Visiting Open House days at Dutch Universities: You don’t have to speak and write Dutch to enroll at a Dutch University. A growing number of universities offer 100% English medium undergraduate courses. Visit the ‘Open Dag’ calendar online to find out more: http://studiekeuze.schoolweb.nl/openday.aspx
Important codes: WO Bachelor stands for 3-year university undergraduate courses and HBO Bachelor stands for 4-year Bachelor’s degree in applied sciences and arts. The table below compares and contrasts the two types of HiEd on offer in the Netherlands:

University (WO)	Hogeschool (HBO)
Three-year theoretical course leading to the   Bachelor qualification	Four-year practical course leading to the bachelor qualification
On average 10 hours a week of contact time. Students do much of the work alone. Relatively high drop out rate.	Full-time instructions and close supervision. Relatively low student drop out rate
Best for students with IB diploma score in excess of 30 points	Recommended for IB diploma holders of less than 30 points
A number of courses, such as medicine, only available at universities	A number of courses, such as Hotel Management and Art, are only available at Hogescholen
Few university courses offer internship, so graduates proceed to either post graduate school, or require a period of training in order to enter the jobs' market.	Graduating students trained and ready for employment, as they have had practical experience during their traineeship. Students can also proceed to post-graduate studies.

Eindhoven has the TU/e (University) and Fontys (HBO)
Thanks to NV Philips, the Technical University of Eindhoven has a first class reputation and almost all graduates are able to find employment positions. Presently, only Industrial Design is taught entirely in English:  http://stuvo.tue.nl/scholieren/bacheloropleidingen/industrial-design-eng.html
 
Fontys, is known as a University of Applied Sciences and offers the following courses in English:
 
·  Electrical and Electronic Engineering in Eindhoven
·  Information Communication Technology in Eindhoven
·  International Business and Management Studies in Eindhoven
·  Mechatronics in Eindhoven
·  Physiotherapy

More at: http://fontys.edu/bachelors.in.english.aspx

Career Review: Recreation, the Outdoors and Leisure as a career
This career would appeal to candidates who enjoy being physically active and would loathe the idea of a 9 to 5 office job. Recreation, arts, culture and tourism represent some of the world’s fastest growing industries, resulting in the need for professionals who can plan, deliver and manage recreation services, courses and field trips. Candidates entering this profession are expected to be skilled at leadership, organisation and communication. Leisure is essential for psychological, social, physical and intellectual well-being. It helps reduce stress and increases the quality of life.
 
Links to institutions offering Leisure and Outdoor courses in English in the Netherlands:
 
InHolland University of Applied Sciences: Leisure or Tourism Management
http://www.inholland.nl/INHOLLANDCOM/Bachelors/frontpage.htm
 
International Leisure Management at Breda University of Applied Sciences
http://www.internationalstudy.in/college/breda_netherlands.htm
 
Links to institutions offering such courses in the UK
 
Nottingham Trent University: Sport Leisure and Outdoor Management
http://www.ntu.ac.uk/apps/pss/courses/cf/60827-1/10/BSc_%28Hons%29_Sport_Leisure_and_Outdoor_Management_.aspx
Cumbria University, Outdoor Management: http://www.cumbria.ac.uk/Courses/Coursesbylevel/Undergraduate/ScienceNatResources/OutdoorStudies/OutdoorLd.aspx
 

 

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Mr Zey's Hi- Ed Corner <> June 16, 2009
 

DP2 STUDENTS
Preliminary IB examination results should become available in the first week of July. Students can find essential information for processing these results at the school site: http://www.isse-school.nl/HiEd/HiEd.htm
All graduating students automatically become members of the ISSE Alumni Association, enabling them to remain in touch with one another and the ISSE. For details see: http://home.vianetworks.nl/users/isse/
 
Feedback from the 2008 graduates
Three students who are currently in year one of University College Maastricht are seeking to transfer to other universities. A common factor is the university’s “Problem-Based Learning” (PBL), which appears to be a problem for some. Clearly PBL does not suit all students. Here’s a quote from the university’s web site:
PBL has been at the core of Maastricht University ever since it was founded. The system revolves around the use of small teaching groups, in which students are challenged to take an active approach to the learning process. PBL is based on the principle of joining forces to tackle a particular problem – analysing it from the widest possible range of perspectives and with the aid of as many information sources as possible, and together devising potential solutions.
Read more about PBL at: http://www.unimaas.nl/default.asp?template=werkveld_testimonials.htm&id=QCP3EB2Q5IBB377131AM&taal=en
 
DP1 STUDENTS

The first day of lesson after the summer recess is September 9. Such a relatively late start could be a problem to those DP1 students who must launch their UK university applications by October 15. This is especially true for those students who are contemplating applying to Cambridge or Oxford University (not possible to apply to both). Also, those with plans for a UK medical career (Human or veterinary), the application deadline is October 15. Such students should therefore be ready with their university choices and their Personal Statement right at the start of the term.
The end of year exam results for DP1 students forms the basis of the predicted grades for UK universities. Therefore, students should engage in adequate revision effort and planning for a reflective and realistic exam outcome.
For competitive courses such as medicine, law and architecture, it helps if applicants have had some practical experience; such as shadowing, volunteering or working during the summer holidays in an area which supports their university career.
The table below lists the top 20 most competitive UK universities. Before choosing any of these universities/courses, students should conduct research to ensure that the admission grade requirement is within their reach.

                                 Useful links for UK university applications
 

• For course and grade requirements and eventually on-line application procedure: http://www.ucas.com/

• Useful short video clips about how the UK universities application is organized: http://www.ucas.tv/

• UK university statistics and other useful data: http://www.unistats.com/

• Mrs Anne Edward’s document on the cost of UK universities: http://www.isse-school.nl/HiEd/Cost-of-UK-UniUpdate08.doc

• Mr Zey's Hi-Ed site: http://home.tiscali.nl/fishnet/

• More on personal statements and application procedure: http://www.isse-school.nl/HiEd/ucas.htm

Mr Zey's Hi- Ed Corner <>  May 12, 2009
 
DP2 STUDENTS

As I type this, DP2 students are in the middle of their gruelling final examinations.
For the Netherlands bound students, there is a requirement to register with the “IB-Groep” in order to secure studiefinanceering (financial assistance). This should be done as soon as possible, which is an on-line procedure that requires the candidate to have his or her Correspondentie nummer (registration number) and the link is at https://app.studielink.nl/vchfos/welcome.jsp. EU citizens pursuing higher education outside this country (but within the EU territories) are also eligible for Studiefinanceering. To do this candidate should download a special IB-Groep form and send it off as soon as possible. Scroll down to the section ‘links’ in order to download this form. However, in the event of any difficulty, you can visit the Studifinanceering office at Clausplein 6, near the Witte Dame library in Eindhoven centre.
In the first week of July, preliminary IB examination results should become available. Students can find essential information for processing these results at the site: http://www.isse-school.nl/HiEd/HiEd.htm

DP1 STUDENTS

On two consecutive Thursdays, April 2 and 9, we had two useful sessions with DP1 students and parents about university planning and research. The emphasis was on an early start (beginning of September 2009) re UK and US university applications. Those DP1 students aspiring for medical career or a place at Oxford or Cambridge Universities must apply before the deadline of October 15, 2009.
For some students, the Mid-IB Summer School in Cambridge and Boston (USA) could be a useful way of catching up in subjects with specific difficulties. More details at http://www.osc-ib.com/
For younger students, there is a local Summer Camp at the International School of Eerde (July 12 to August 2). The programme of activities includes English language improvement lessons, sporting activities, including golf, soccer and tennis; dance and music; cultural excursions: Amsterdam, The Hague and Rotterdam. For more details visit the site http://www.eerde.nl/
The University of Amsterdam and VU University Amsterdam have announced the start of an all English, Liberal Arts and Science programme. This leads to a 3-year Bachelor degree. The courses on offer fall under the following six themes:

Energy, Climate and Sustainability

Life, Evolution, Universe

Health and Well-being

Information, Communication, Cognition

Social Systems

Cities and Cultures

More details at http://www.studeren.uva.nl/auc

With the approach of the end-of-year exams, most students are perhaps too occupied with studies to have the time to do any serious research in terms of finding a university that meets their individual needs and academic profile. This is particularly the case with UK universities, where students need to be aware of their likely IB Diploma score in 2010. Parents can help out with on line research and if they could share their finding with me, so much the better. The next several paragraphs should make this clearer:

Economics, Business and Management courses <> by Anne Edwards, DP Parent

This research below was carried out in April 2009 with reference to traditional universities and not the new universities, which in general have lower admission requirements. It must be stressed that it's up to each individual to do their own research, but I'm quite happy to share this with the ISSE community, as long as they don't blame me if the information turns out not to be accurate or the universities make offers quite different from those quoted below. I gathered the latest information online from the individual universities and 2 league tables.  The positions in the League Tables are for Business, Management, etc., and Economics only.  They are not for the university as a whole.  Some universities might come overall in the top 20, but for Business or Economics degrees much lower down the ranking – you may want to go to a top university even if it’s not so good for Business or Economics.   League tables change every year, so don't only pay attention to them.
 
When choosing a course, look at whether or not it has a year out in business option, a year at a Business School abroad, good job prospects, modules you actually want to study, a high rate of applicants per place, etc..  They vary greatly.  What’s important to you in the course?
 
When choosing a university, look at where it is in relation to airports, is it in a city centre or out on a campus, are sports facilities and societies really important to you, do you want to play your favourite sport for your university team, which position does it comes in league tables, is it famous internationally, etc..  What’s important to you in the university itself?
 
(I did not look at London universities, because my son does not want to go to London, but LSE, UCL and Imperial College are the 3 good ones.)

Degrees in Business, Management and combination

Those highlighted in red come in the top 10 in both league tables.

Those highlighted in blue come in the top 20 in both league tables.

IB points needed	Name of University	The Times League Table 09	The Guardian League Table 09
30	Leicester	18	13
30-32	Lancaster	10	5
32	Nottingham	15	18
	Liverpool	62	36
32+	York	50	31
33	Cardiff	20	46
	Sheffield	25	35
33-36	Exeter	7	4
	Birmingham	34	21
34	Durham	30	23
	Aston	11	16
34-35	Manchester	16	9
	Southampton	21	37
35	Leeds	23	19
36	Warwick	5	2
	St Andrews	9	7
36+	Loughborough	6	14
38	Bath	4	8

Economics on its own or combined with Business / Management

Those highlighted in red come in the top 10 in both league tables.

Those highlighted in blue come in the top 20 in both league tables.

IB points needed	Name of University	The Times League Table 09	The Guardian League Table 09
30-32	Lancaster	14	9
32	Leicester	20	28
	Liverpool	42	31
33	Cardiff	25	43
	Sheffield	38	38
33-36	Exeter	10	12
34	Manchester	39	30
	Southampton	17	32
min.34	Loughborough	16	23
34-36	Birmingham	7	4
34-37	Bristol (7 in SL Maths!)	9	14
35	Leeds	29	29
36	York	13	17
37	St Andrews	12	8
38	Warwick	5	5
	Durham	6	7
	Bath	15	15
	Nottingham	8	13

Aston University also does Economics and Management for 34 points see Aston above.   It does not come under Economics in either league table.

Hopefully, this document encourages other parents or students to do the same for different courses, that would be great - but it does take many hours of internet research.

Feel free to send the fruits of your research to Mr Zey:   mrzey@live.nl

     The above table speaks for itself and simplifies the search for top UK universities

Useful links
UK university Open Days: http://www.opendays.com/
NL university Open Days: http://www.opendagen.nl/schools.asp?action=state&id=NB
ISSE alumni site: http://home.vianetworks.nl/users/isse/
Mr Zey's Hi-Ed site: http://home.tiscali.nl/fishnet/
Mrs Anne Edward’s document on the cost of UK universities: http://www.isse-school.nl/HiEd/Cost-of-UK-UniUpdate08.doc
EU application form for studifinanceering: http://www.isse-school.nl/downloads/StFinEu.PDF
 
You can read this newsletter on line at http://www.isse-school.nl/HiEd/2009.htm
Parents and students can contact me by phone during school hours [040-2927673] and by email: mrzey@live.nl

Mr Zey's Hi-Ed Corner, March 26, 2009

Upcoming events

On April 2 and 9, I will be giving a presentation to DP1 students about higher education planning and research. Both dates are on a Thursday afternoon, right after lesson 8 at 14:45 in room 101. The April 2 session will focus on the UK and the Netherlands and the other session will focus on Canada , USA and other exotic destinations. Parents are cordially invited too. The presentations will end at 16:00.

The summer holidays provide opportunities for students to take preparatory steps for their higher education and career. This can take the form of an appropriate summer job, paid or unpaid; or shadowing a working professional. Researching university courses on line and eventually visiting universities can help make the right choices, so that in September 2009, you are ready to apply to universities in the northern hemisphere. Another useful summer activity is to compose a letter of motivation, or a personal statement, a CV or a resume, something that most universities expect these days.

Here is a site with CV templates and useful tips: http://www.osvita.org/eng/guides/admission/sample.resume/

Speaking with ex-ISSE graduates or alumni is also a very useful exercise. Here is one alumnus who was kind enough to jot down his university thoughts and experiences for your benefit:

My name is Yannick Carter and before I delve into my experience of almost two semesters at university, let me tell you a little bit about myself. I am half German, half British, I was born in Paris, France, but I moved to Eindhoven when I was about 2 years old, and have spent my entire childhood there up until my recent moving to Great Britain for higher education. I attended the RIS International primary school for 7 years, and then most recently the ISSE for the same amount of time, including finishing the International Baccalaureate (IB). I'm not much of a scientist, so in my final two years at the ISSE I took the following subjects: Economics, History and English A1 all at Higher Level, and then Dutch A2 and Environmental Systems and Mathematics.
 
The final exams are what everything comes down to. It will determine, scarily enough, the opportunities you are given and in which direction you will take the next important step of your life. Of course I wasn't fazed by this, and managed to score a solid 30 IB points, which is a substantial score (or at least I like to think so). Before I even started studying however, I had already taken a good look at what I would potentially want to do. For me the most logical next step was higher education, and to study something that would bring me a step closer to what I wanted to do in life. I knew for a very long time that I had wanted to study in the UK , so I took the necessary steps to make sure this would be possible. If you're interested in studying in the UK , then it is important to apply through a system known as UCAS. It is predominantly done online and all the official higher educational institutes use UCAS to allocate and accept students from the whole world. Once you narrow down your choices down to the subject you want to study later on, which in my case was either International Relations/Diplomacy and/or History, you should start looking at the many institutions that offer an attractive course which you could imagine doing. Remember that you will spend about 3-4 years doing this course, so make sure you are able to put up with it for a while.
 
Rumour has it that some students go for courses where the percentage of the opposite sex is much larger than their own, which of course is the wrong approach. Smart, but wrong. Coming back to the application process, you must meet a UCAS deadline by which you must have chosen five institutions to apply to. The inconvenient thing in relation to the IBO with this however, is that you must choose this on basis of predicted IB final exam scores, because the deadline is way before you even take the exams. This is because UCAS is based on the British GCSE educational system. One way to make this decision easier would be to actually go and visit at least a few of the universities on open days, or on any ordinary day if you call ahead and orgainse a meeting with an official. This is exactly what I did (thanks mum and dad). I went and checked out a few universities which I am glad I did because I was able to cross off a few universities I was previously highly considering attending, but wouldn't have been happy there. So after all this I chose 5 promising universities where I thought I would be comfortable studying for a while. Mind you I had the exams coming up at the same time, so I had to study very hard at the same time! Impressive, I know. Now having applied for 5 universities, whether they accept you at all or make you an offer on which your final exam scores are based is still unknown.
 
Despite all my preparation for this I was eventually rejected by all 5 universities, some by narrowly missing specific requirements of their offer. Mostly they allow some leeway, but my choices decided to be.. difficult. Which can happen, so expect the worst but hope for the best. You may be asking yourself 'So how did you get yourself out of this dreadful situation poor Yannick?'. Very simple. UCAS has a system called 'Clearing', which is a process at which as many unallocated UCAS applicants as possible are guided to some sort of course despite their five let-downs. I'm personally happy this happened, because I found a university that would have been better than any of the ones I had initially applied for, before you go thinking that Clearing is only for the silly rejects. That is basically how I came to be a first year student at the University of Leicester (12th best in the UK according to The Times) studying BA International Relations and History, after which I hope to pursuit a career in diplomacy linked to the United Nations. Or something.

University really is great though. Quite basically, you're studying something that you're interested in (if you're not; get out.), you're independent (unless you decide to stay at home so that you don't have to cook and clean yourself), and you can meet a whole range of people whether it's from your course, your sports club or any other hobby you may pursue. The parties aren't too bad either. If you're a parent I'm only joking.. The parties are horrible. I'm not being paid to promote the University of Leicester , but I must say that so far I am having the time of my life and that I would recommend the university to anyone. The city here too is amazing, especially since it's about the same calibre as Eindhoven, where I have spent my entire life growing up, so nothing is out of proportion to me in terms of what you would expect from a city this size. Leicester and its University seem to have the whole package!

Whatever you may choose to do with your lives after the exams, I wish you the best of luck and most importantly joy in what you do.

                           Recession-proof careers

The key is to focus on work that continues even when most people don't have much money to spend.

Health Care: People will always get sick -  even more so when they become insecure.

Energy and Environment: Although consumers are likely to cut back, they're not going to stop using energy. In fact, this industry may grow, as companies look for more efficient and sustainable ways to deliver renewable energy.

Education: No matter how dire the economy is, there are always jobs for teachers. Students will still go to school, and many out-of-work adults may decide to continue their education.

International Business: Even when the economy is doing poorly, other countries may be doing well. So if you are involved in international business, you can expect your career to stay safe.

Public Safety: Police layoffs are very rare, especially at a time where public safety is threatened by growing poverty and criminality. A career in public safety or the army is almost guaranteed to be secure.

Accounting: Death and taxes are a sure thing. In a recession, people and companies are likely to get desperate for more tax deductibles.

Civil Service: Most government jobs end only when workers retire. Additionally, government services tend to step up in times of recession, so your chances of getting and keeping a government job are good.

Pharmaceuticals: As long as doctors prescribe them, people are still going to take drugs. So whether you're behind the pharmacy counter or in the lab, you can rest easy.

Brewers: Alcohol is another outlet for troubled times, so distributors and manufacturers in this industry will continue to thrive.

Politics: Even in a recession, public officials are still around earning tidy sums, which are often tied to the cost of living.

Bankruptcy Law: It's sad, but true: As companies and individuals go bankrupt, they'll need a lawyer to help them work through it all.

Civil engineers: Despite money troubles, roads, bridges, tunnels etc must be maintained. Schools and hospitals must be built. Look for municipal or government functions for job security.

Food: People need food to survive, and it's not likely that anyone is going to eat less because of the recession.

Useful link

BBC-Work experience: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/education/7964144.stm

UK university Open Days: http://www.opendays.com/

NL university Open Days: http://www.opendagen.nl/schools.asp?action=state&id=NB

ISSE alumni site: http://home.vianetworks.nl/users/isse/

Mr Zey's Hi-Ed site: http://home.tiscali.nl/fishnet/

Mr Zey's Hi-Ed Corner, February 6, 2009

Recent events

On Thursday, February 5 we were given a presentation by a visiting alumnus, Lieuwe Leene about the University of Hong Kong (HK) http://www.hku.hk/ There were close to 30 students who watched and listened to a Power Point and video presentations during the lunch break. The medium of instruction of this university is in English and the university is highly regarded.

On Thursday 29 January, the Director of Recruitment of the international departments of the University of Tilburg paid a visit to the ISSE to meet with some of our senior students and discuss the following three-year courses, which are taught through the medium of English:

• 1:- The Bachelor in International Business Administration

• 2:- The new Bachelor in Economics   built on the former International Economics and Finance programme

• 3:- Liberal Arts: graduates can then enter a range of Master's degree programmes:

· Human aspects of Information Technology

· International and European Public Law

· International and European Labour Law

· Strategic Management

·   International Business

· SociologyLeisure Studies

· European Urban Cultures

· Organization of Cultural Diversity

Successful Liberal Arts students are eligible to spending a semester at Venice International University in Italy. The deadline for application for the English-medium courses is 15 May.

Higher Education News

For the past six years, Netherlands bound medical students have been facing insurmountable difficulties in gaining admission. The first obstacle has been the lottery system, which allows high-scoring VWO students direct access, but no such access for non-VWO students. Instead, applicants face a lottery system of selection.

The second obstacle has been the requirement of three sciences, which is in violation of IB principles.

This unsatisfactory state of affairs has been one of the many topics dealt with over the past few years by a committee of volunteer parents from all the international secondary schools in the Netherlands, called the IPSSG group (ISSE member, DP2 and DP1 parent, Mrs Edwards).  The IPSSG has lobbied and attempted to change the unfair nature of medical admissions, and will continue to do so.

At last, one medical university, in Groningen, appears to have responded positively to the needs of international medical students and started at Bachelor level, an English-medium medical course that does away with the need for a lottery system. You can read more about this at http://www.rug.nl/umcg/index or ask Mr Zey for a brochure.

The State University of Groningen (Rijksuniversiteit Groningen) offers seven other Bachelor programmes in English:

1: American Studies2: International Relations and International Organization  
3: International Business & Management           4: Econometrics

5: Economics and Business Economics             6: Psychology

7: International and European Law (honours programme)

Summer Study Programmes 

MP5 students could benefit from a summer pre-IB course in the UK. This can be costly but effective, particularly for those students who enrolled recently need an academic boost.

DP1 students can also benefit from a mid-IB summer course. Again, this is particularly useful to students who did not joined the DP1 course in September, but much later and for those who have missed too many lessons due to illness and other reasons.

You can read more on such courses at http://www.osc-ib.com/

Important!

DP2 students who have not made a formal university application yet, should do so as soon as possible.Some students also need to make a backup application to Dutch universities. To this end, visiting Open Days is a very important requirement. This is also the time of year for DP1 students to visit universities. The Open Days are usually on a Saturday and here below is a web site that provides upcoming dates:

http://www.studiekeuze123.nl/web/site/default.aspx?m=opendagen

Those seeking a university education beyond the Netherlands and the UK should visit my higher education site: http://home.tiscali.nl/fishnet/ . The on line version of this newsletter is at: http://www.isse-school.nl/HiEd/2009.htm

The 2008 editions of this newsletter are available at: http://www.isse-school.nl/HiEd/January2008.htm

Mr Zey's Hi-Ed Corner, January 9, 2009

Upcoming events

On Wednesday, February 4 we will be visited by a representative of the University of Hong Kong   (HK) http://www.hku.hk/ MP5 to DP2 students who have an interest in pursuing their higher education in HK should attend this presentations. The medium of instruction is in English and we do have an ISSE alumnus who is most satisfied with his choice in HK. If you want to attend this event contact me as soon as possible.

The Stedelijk College Eindhoven is once again organising a (Dutch) university information evening (19:00 to 22:00) on February 10 and 12. The spoken language will be in Dutch and those wishing to attend must pre-register, which is possible until January 23. Don't miss this free and valuable information opportunity. To register go to: http://www.svstedelijk.nl/wo/index.php

Higher Education News

With an eye on the school's growing number of Hungarian students, I would like to draw attention to a number of Hungarian universities that offer English medium university education. The Oxford Brooks University in Budapest is a division of the UK Oxford based university. Only the International Business degree course is offered in English. For more details:   http://www.ibs-b.hu/portal/page/portal/IBSHome

The Budapest University of Technology and Economics is also based in Budapest http://www.tanok.bme.hu/

Semmelweis English-medium medical university has a more than 230-year old tradition of academic excellence: http://www.semmelweis-english-program.org/

Satakunta University of Applied sciences in Finland offers the following courses in English:

- Degree Programme in Innovative Business Services
- Degree Programme in International Business and Marketing Logistics
- Degree Programme in Physiotherapy

For more information visit: http://www.samk.fi/apply/

  The International University in Germany , located in the baroque city of Bruchsal , in the heart of Germany 's high-tech region of Baden-Wurttemberg offers English medium courses, such as, IT -   Business Administration, and Communication Management. More details: http://www.i-u.de/

On January 7 2009, Yannick Carter (2008 graduate) dropped by the school to say hello and provide some feedback about his university experiences (History course) to date. He is the second ISSE student to attend the University of Leicester . He promised to write a report which will eventually appear in this column. Both alumni are well pleased with this Leicester university: http://www.le.ac.uk/external/

Gergely Ferenczi and Mathew Styles (both 2007 alumni) also dropped by recently and provided favourable feedback on their universities: Imperial University , London and University College Utrecht respectively.

It is important that DP2 students, who have not made a formal university application yet, do so as soon as possible. Those seeking a university education beyond the Netherlands and the UK should visit my higher education site: http://home.tiscali.nl/fishnet/. The on line version of this newsletter is at: http://www.isse-school.nl/HiEd/2009.htm