Which university and course is best for you?

Need some help choosing where to go to continue your studies and which course should you do?

Kids grow up so fast – in the blink of an eye, they’re graduating from high school and heading overseas, into the workforce, or to a university somewhere. If it’s the latter, they’ll need to answer the big question of which tertiary institution to apply to. There are so many things to consider, from choosing the country to study in, to figuring out the degree programme they want to pursue, learning about the often-complicated application process, or even the strategy to get into top schools.

With all this in mind, it can be helpful to seek advice from an education consultancy like Crimson Education about the options available, whether you’re at the start of your university adventure, or, like RYAN C who we spoke to, making a change from one degree to another (and from one country to another!).

Tell us a little about yourself and why you initially decided to study medicine.

My biggest role model is my father; I witnessed how he managed a seven day working week as a dental surgeon. My admiration of him was the main reason behind my initial pursuit of a medical career. I’d spent almost three years in medical school in Singapore, but I found the career path at odds with my personality. When I decided to quit, the protests from faculty and parents were fierce! I also had other interests that I love, like busking and blogging.

What did Crimson make you realise?

Crimson gave me that crucial push towards pursuing my aspiration of a liberal arts education in the US. The Crimson advisors also helped me realise that my lost interest in being a doctor did not equate to disinterest in healthcare. In many ways, it has emboldened me to approach this path with more maturity.

How did Crimson help?

Crimson’s networks brought me in contact with career investors, such as the company’s CEO Jamie Beaton, who is also the youngest analyst at investment firm Tiger Management. In another instance, Crimson recognised the potential of my food blog beyond it being just a platform to review good eats. As a student who had never applied to a US college, I was foreign to the entire application process. Also, having left high school, I did not have college counsellors and seniors to consult with. I’m thankful for Crimson’s guidance during this intimidating college application process, acquainting and familiarising me with the procedures.

What opportunities did Crimson provide you with?

Crimson’s greatest asset is its vast network of high-achieving college students and alumni, some of whom have walked a similar path to mine. It offers invaluable access to seniors who provide emotional support and advice.

Do you have any general advice for students?

It’s easy to cruise along the mainstream current. I encourage you to pursue a future determined by personal choice and not societal expectations.

Crimson Education offers a three-to-one (three experts to one student) approach to help students gain access to top universities and colleges across the world. In the 2017-18 application cycle, 100 percent of Crimson’s Singapore students got into at least one of their top five US and UK university preferences.

For more information, call 6909 2004 or email singapore@crimsoneducation.org.

For more helpful tips head to our living in Singapore section.

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