Study and Travel in Spain

In today’s modern and fast- paced world, it’s really difficult to get a career started especially when everyone is looking at you through your education and achievements. To help those who can’t be in a school personally for study, the wonderful world of education is offering great opportunities to study and graduate by online and distance learning. Simply put, it is a course for students who cannot attend school every day but would want to earn a continuing studies degree or a certification for a certain career. It is being offered almost everywhere around the world, with courses ranging from different professions, hobbies and vocations. To get started in online and distance learning here are a few examples of institutions and schools that are offering such courses:

Elearnuk is one of the largest distance colleges in the world. It offers over 600 study courses that can be studied from home without having to attend classes in their campus. You can enrol anytime of the year and their professionally accepted diplomas, certificates and degrees are acknowledged in UK and in most countries. A few examples of their first gclass choice subjects are child care course, advertising course, aromatherapy course, marketing course, homeopathy training, bookkeeping course, writing short stories, carpentry course and psychology course.

Education Center Online allows people to search through available online and distance learning courses or to access the website of other campuses offering other degrees as preferred by the student. They offer numerous courses in the fields of business, computer training, culinary arts, design, education, engineering, film, TV & multimedia, healthcare, hospitality and tourism, legal careers and MBA programs.

University Canada West in Vancouver and Victoria, BC offers four (4) 10- week terms to those who want to take- on post- secondary education. They have a high guarantee of acceptance for high school students who have an average of 65%. The courses they offer are Accelerated Master of Business Administration (Business Graduates),Bachelor of Arts in Culture, Heritage and Tourism, Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Bachelor of Arts in Geography, Bachelor of Arts: Media and Communications, Bachelor of Commerce in General Studies, Bachelor of Commerce in Technology Management, Degree Completion for graduates with Business Diploma, Master of Business Administration (Non-Business Graduates).

Training Link Education S.E.A is a member of the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and an institutional member of the College of Teachers (U.K). They offer accredited home study and online distance learning certificates and diplomas. A few of their Top courses include: Diploma in Psychology, Diploma in Child Psychology, Certificate in Fast Food & Snack Bar Management, Certificate in Customer Service Excellence, Certificate in Business Management, Certificate in, and Airline & Airport Passenger Service Agent Skills . Registration to their school is by filling up and application online.

California Southern University provides access to a high quality education through distance and online learning. Students from all over the world who are interested in pursuing degrees in business, psychology, liberal arts and law are all welcome to enrol and earn their respective degrees and certifications.

Learning the English language is similar to unlocking a door filled with a whole new world inside. It has become essential that the knowledge of the English language is the new key to communicate with the world. With this in mind, it is important to start as early as now in learning the world’s second language. There are a lot of schools in Spain offering English language courses to those who want to learn the basics of the English language, its proper use and even just to brush up on their conversational English. Here are some of the schools in Spain that may help you in learning the English language:

Villaviciosa de Odón centre in Madrid, Spain opened in 1997 and since then have been providing the best quality of English learning to its students. All of their instructors are native English speakers so that is why they are most qualified to teach both adults and children. As part of their courses, they will incorporate activities using technologies that will help the students boost their English, allow students to borrow reading materials and references to help them in their study and organize different competitions, shows and quizzes to help motivate the student while learning at the same time. For new students, a level test will be given to determine their current standing in the use of the English language. Courses are held in a period of one year with four different departments and each with various levels. The classes are three teaching hours a week. Classes are held twice a week on alternate days, or there are intensive classes once a week on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings.

Casa Lila is a modern four bedroom villa situated in a new urban area situated in the vineyards of the Hondon Valley midway between Hondon de las Nieves and Hondon de las Frailes, approximately 20 kilometres from Elche, and 30kms from Alicante and the coast.. A lot of homeowners in the area are owned by many Spanish, Dutch, Belgium and English people. We have many English speaking neighbours with whom you will be able to practice your new language skills. The tutors are qualified, born and brought up in South East England. They have experience in accommodating many foreign students into their home in England and teaching them to start or improve their use of the English language. The English language course is held on a weekly basis, wherein students settle on a Sunday afternoon. They will be given an ability assessment so that each programme is personalized for every student’s needs. The course intensive with 5 teaching hours from Monday to Thursday, however students are also given a lot of free time. The total cost of one week’s teaching is € 450 and € 800 for two weeks.

ABC College in Barcelona, Spain offers English language courses at all levels for adults, young adults and children. They offer one- to –one or in- company classes for their students. Their courses are general English, English for young learners, intensive, additional official examination practice, and business English. All teachers are qualified and experienced, all native English speakers who were trained to establish rapport and accommodate each students’ needs. The program is constantly updated to adapt to the level of the student’s performance. The use of the language is further reinforced by using instructional media in English and focus is placed on each student’s grammar and pronunciation. Prices range from € 290 to € 1410 depending on your length of study.

British Council in Bilbao, Spain has highly qualified teachers that will help you to hone your skills in English whether for personal or professional use. They encourage learning by allowing students to use media and other materials in English. They offer a young learner’s course, adult courses, conversation courses and summer courses. Both adults and children will undergo a level test upon registration to accommodate and adapt the program based on their knowledge.

• Stay Informed:

Even before you leave your home country it would be better if you have knowledge on essential information about the country or city you are going to such as customs, way of living, cost of basic commodities, traffic rules, safety tips, etc. Such information can help you decide better and avoid troubles and violations. It pays to know especially in a foreign land where you will spend an ample amount of time for you study. And when you are already there, it is recommended if you update yourself with current events to check what’s going on around the city you’re living.

• Stay Focus:

Do not forget the first and main reason why you are actually abroad – to study, and hopefully to finish it! There are lot things that can get your attention and time so stay focus no matter what. Night life, excessive shopping, unhealthy relationships, unproductive habits, or other vices can rip you of your concentration and the worst thing that could happen is you realized it when it’s too late and the only thing you can do is pack your staff and go home. Choosing and being with the right people or circle of friends can help you to be on the right track. For some, the opportunity to study abroad comes once in a lifetime so I suggest keep a good company, they really do help.

• Stay Connected:

Studying abroad can be a very thrilling and unforgettable experience and sharing it with your family or friends can through constant communication can add more excitement and meaning to it. Especially for people who get home-sick easily, regular communication is very important to ease the loneliness and depression one may experience while studying abroad. Technologies nowadays made communicating with love ones easier, faster, cheaper anytime and anywhere you are. If you go through various difficulties while abroad sometimes its inevitable for your studies to get affected. So constant and regular communication is a key to survive.

• Stay Relaxed:

All work and no play make Jack a dull boy. I totally agree. Some call it “to unwind” while others claim it as, “rewarding yourself”. Whatever you call it, you deserve a break. There are a lot pressure and unexpected circumstances one can experience while abroad so taking a rest can refresh your mind, body, and spirit. It does not necessarily mean you have to spend to relax; there are numerous ways to reenergize yourself. A simple conversation while having dinner with friends or classmates after a long and tiring exam can do the trick.

You don’t need to be a professional or an expert to find your dream house or apartment while studying abroad but resourcefulness is a key. Sometimes the most useful ways are the simple ones and closely lying right beside you. But before you start your lodging hunting you can check these 5 basic steps you can follow and who knows you’re fantasy house is just a click away…

Step 1: List the things you prefer:

It may take you some time but I assure you it pays off! You will not find what you are looking for if you do not even have an idea what it is you want. From housing type, rent and payment mode, offered facilities, transport accessibility to neighborhood, it helps to list all of it. The main reason for being is to avoid taking so much time choosing the right one when faced with so many options then ending up with an accommodation you do not like, or worst you hate. You thought sharing an apartment with somebody was a good idea because it saves you more than $200 a month until you realized that the person you’re living with is your worst enemy for countless reasons.

Step 2: Maximize the Internet:

If you haven’t heard of the Internet then now is the best time to get acquainted with it. There are many websites, forums, blogs, and even chat rooms that can pinpoint you to the right direction. And the best part of the Internet, you can search for accommodations right at the very comfort of your room, office, or even at the tip of your fingertips – of course using your mobile or PDA phones. You can also leave your contact information so that as soon as an accommodation becomes available you’re the first one to check it out.

Step 3: Ask Friends and Colleagues:

Like the old fashioned way, it is still worthwhile to ask friends, acquaintances and colleagues. Also, inform your circle of friends that you are actually looking for a new accommodation and do not forget to detail your preferences. You can give them your contact information so that you can be contacted directly. References from friends can be very effective since they have actual experience and knowledge of the place and can confirm specific details.

Step 4: Walk and Ask Around:

If you can walk and stroll around the town or neighborhood you’re thinking to live in then do so. You can see and check the actual place and talk directly to the person in charge and bargain if you want to. You might also see postings on the streets while walking around or ask people on the neighborhood if they know of any lodging vacancies and ask them contact you in case.

Step 5: Make a tentative List:

After all the searching, and asking around its now time to make a tentative list of all accommodations based on your preferences. From this list, you can further cut down it down until you’re left with 2 or 3 choices. Doing so, there is higher probability that the lodging you chose is something you really want to and enjoy for a longer period. Also, save your list or keep it for a moment so when the time comes you that need to find a new lodging again or somebody asks for your help, the list can be very handy.

Studying abroad is an investment, and like any other investment one wants a return. And like any other venture, the rate of success highly depends on your abilities and how you deal with things. Going abroad to study is not a trivial task. You need a lot of time to prepare for it and make sure things will go smoothly. And when you are already there and studying, one needs to exert more than the usual effort when studying at the comfort of your home country. But most importantly, studying abroad can drain your savings or your parents’ if you are not smart enough to spend wisely.

Below are essential benefits one can get, either personally or professionally, when or after studying abroad:

• New cultures and experiences:

If there is no place like home, then the place where you experience new cultures and meet diversities is undeniably the next best thing and something you won’t forget. There is a different and unique feeling one discovers when exposed to new ways of doing things, especially if it is quite unusual or the opposite of what has been accustomed to. For many they use the term “culture shock” but for some it’s an adventure that needs to be explored.

• Exposure to global companies:

There are programs and studies that require students to work for top global companies to experience real-life scenarios as professionals. Such direct participation helps students realize their potentials and eventually decide the career path they want to pursue. And if you are really good and lucky enough, some companies who noticed your abilities may offer formal job after your course.

• Extended network:

This is something that comes easily for international students unless of course you decided not to talk to your classmates or housemates for some reasons. After your study abroad, you have more foreign friends, more professors and colleagues to ask help for, and if you have the entrepreneurial spirit, you could have identified probable market or customers already. Of course, social skill is very important if you really want to expand and extend your social network.

• Additional credit to your portfolio:

Big and leading companies sometimes factor international studies experiences when filling key positions. This is quite normal for companies with global operations and who are seeking professionals with clear understanding and significant experience on global businesses and marketing. So if you do have one, highlight it on your resume and do not forget to mention it on during interviews!

• New skills acquired and discovered:

Sometimes we realized how good we are or that we have such skill when pressured by time or circumstances. Studying abroad can bring out the best in you. Especially when you are doing everything – cleaning the house, preparing food, handling bills, managing your study, and other responsibilities that used to be not yours until you study abroad. Sounds fun, maybe but the thing to remember is what you learn and discover about yourself when faced with such overwhelming tasks.

Studying in other country can be a very exciting and unforgettable experience. You meet new friends, explore unknown territories, and learn new ideas. But it could also be the opposite. That is why it is important to prepare yourself and plan ahead. SpainExchange features simple tools that can help every students make the most of their experience while studying abroad. Students can search for programs and various courses, the best international schools, participating exchange students, and different student housing accommodations. And best part of it, it is easy to use, and it is free!

· Study Abroad

SpainExchange eases every student’s nightmare in browsing which courses and studies are offered by which schools and universities. Courses, degrees, and various programs are grouped accordingly by country. All you have to do is select your preferred country and a list of offered graduate, professional, and vocational programs – grouped by category, are displayed. Do not waste your time searching from hundreds or worse thousands of subjects or studies you don’t actually need. Specify the country, select from a group of studies, and choose your specific course. It is as easy as 1, 2, and 3.

· Featured Schools

Looking for cream of the crop international school? SpainExchange features schools that are globally recognized and meet international standards. With “FeaturedShools”, students are assured that they are taking only the best among the best with a good career path after their studies.

· Student Exchange

It is always fun to meet new people and experience new cultures. And that is the reason why SpainExchange makes it more exciting for exchange students through their simple and effective search engine. One can search by destination or country of origin. Students can easily access if the country they intent to go has exchange students. Also, student can search for host families. Match your personality and other preferences with the hosting families’ details. It is a smart thing to know your hosting family, they can be really warm and nice, or the opposite.

· Student Housing

For students who want more control over their space, then no worry no more for SpainExchange can help you find the “perfect” house when you study abroad. Select from a wide variety of property/housing types that includes flat, shared flats, duplex, house, studio, family shared, garage space, individual room, student residence, and many more. Just indicate your desired country and specify the state or province.

There is no place like home. But there is such a thing as SpainExhcange that offers you the chance to find the next best thing. Your study abroad does not have to be boring. You can spies it up. Choose the field you are really interested in, find the best school, and select your lodging type. But first, you must register in http://www.spainexchange.com/index-en.htm… Good luck on you study!

Are there times when you’ve wondered if there’s more to life than lolling around on a hammock through the long months of vacation? Are you curious about other countries and cultures? Are you keen on ‘making a difference’ in some way? Then, volunteer work abroad may be the perfect option for you. Volunteering to work in a social development project abroad expands your mind, boosts your career prospects and lets you spend your time in a way that is fulfilling.

Volunteering abroad gives you invaluable knowledge and exposure not only about the intricacies of a particular area of social development but also about a wholly different culture and people. It makes you stronger, more open-minded and adds to perspective in many ways. Apart from learning how a professional organization functions, you will spend your time constructively by learning new skills and strengthening your resume. More and more, organizations are looking at volunteer work experience as evidence of a well-rounded personality, capable of hard work (and sometimes, hardship) who will be able to work well in a team and roll with the punches if necessary.

Volunteer work also gives you a chance to to share your skills and teach others what you are best at. There is enough need in the world to accommodate different types of skills and no matter what you’re good at—writing, sketching, organizing, teaching—there is some project out there that is looking for exactly those skills. Working for a social cause also invariably leads to increased self-confidence and personal satisfaction because you are helping others and contributing to society in a meaningful way.

Volunteering abroad is also a good way to explore different career options. You can venture into an area without the fear of making a long-term commitment. It will give you a chance to explore your capabilities, experiment with what you are good at or pursue what interests you the most.

There are many areas of social development: poverty, education, child welfare, women’s rights, rural development, environmental conservation are a few of the common ones. It is important to choose the area you want to work in after careful consideration of factors such as your particular skills and interests, what you feel passionate about, where you would like to work, and how it will tie in with your goals in the future. For example, if you want to specialize in environmental studies later on, it makes sense to do volunteer work in the same area. On the other hand, if you are planning to do a Phd on watershed management at some point, you may want to look at rural development projects.

There are many websites that offer detailed and comprehensive information on such projects and help you make the correct choice in terms of a volunteer abroad program. There may also be consultants near where you live who will be able to help you in this regard. It’s also a good idea to sound off a teacher or mentor on your plans and take their advice in the matter. After all, if you are travelling halfway across the world to work for a cause, you should make sure that you choose wisely!

Whenever I hear the word ‘London’ the first thing that comes into my mind is the famous ‘London Bridge’. But the city is absolutely more than that, more than kings and queens and their palaces, and more than being a financial and fashion hub. London is in fact a common point where great minds, ambitious dreams, and dynamic imaginations of students from every face of the planet meet and start their journey. Top calibrated and globally recognized universities and colleges are just a few of the reasons why international students choose London to be their second home. Check for yourself and you will see why…

Preparation and Financial Assistance

Students anywhere in the globe can contact the UKCISA and British Council for the latest information and procedures in applying for student visa. The British Council also features an online catalog where students can search for various scholarship grants and awards from UK universities, non-profit organizations, and private institutions.

Institutions, Programs, and Courses

Universities in London can be categorized into two classifications. The first is the federal University of London which is one of the largest universities in Europe. It has 19 colleges and 12 institutes all of which control its own admissions and degree courses and are in fact universities in their own right. Some of the leading and distinguished colleges of the University of London include University College London (UCL), King’s College London, Queen Mary, London School of Economics and Political Science, Birkbeck, Institute of Education, Goldsmiths, and the Royal Holloway. The second are universities that are not part of the University of London such as the Imperial College London, City University, Brunel University, London South Bank University, Middlesex University, and the University of East London.

These universities and colleges are at par with various institutions in the US such as MIT, Berkeley, and the University of California. Undergraduate, postgraduate, and advance studies and programs are available under different fields – Art, Design, Architecture, Business, Management, Finance, Media, Humanities, Law, Healthcare, Medicine, Veterinary Science, IT, Science, and Engineering.

Transportation

London has certainly one of the most modern and organized transportation systems in the modern world. Students can avail of the Oyster Card with a discount of 30% on a selection of travel cards. From coaches, double-decker buses, black cabs to high-speed trains your chosen university or college is just a step away from your home. If you are the traditional type you can also hit the road with bicycles which are gaining popularity nowadays or simply walk around the city and savor its history, architecture, and style.

Accommodation

Regardless if you are taking a short or lengthy course, finding your next home sweet home will never be a problem in London. You can choose from studio flats, apartments, to flashy penthouses throughout the city and its suburbs, name it London has it. Nearly all universities and colleges offer accommodation for foreign students. International students are recommended to read the UKCISA Guidance Note – ‘Accommodation for international students’ for various do’s and don’ts in choosing their place to stay.

Lifestyle, Health & Safety

And what is school without experiencing some fun? Foreign students will be awed on what London can offer. Cafes, discos, shopping havens, fine restaurants, art centers, exotic markets, museums, whatever can make you relaxed and unwind London is definitely the city where you live life in its fullest. Students staying for 6 months or more can access hospital treatment for free from the National Health Service (NHS).

In 2007, 3 German universities were included in the top 100 and 11 in the top 200 of the THES – QS World University Rankings. Germany schools and universities provide first rate education for foreign students, wide range of programs and studies, and exceptional research and teaching by balancing theory and application. And to top it of, German cities boast of its striking landscapes, lively customs and traditions, modern transportation system, and mouth-watering cuisines. But before you get all excited it is very important to plan ahead and list down all you need to complete before packing your books and clothes. Like any other countries, admission to German colleges and institutions can be a cumbersome experience if you do not plan well…

Who do I need to contact?

The first thing to do after making a shortlist of German universities and courses you are interested in is to contact the university. They can help you prepare important documents and other necessary prerequisites. There are basically general requirements for foreign students but some universities may demand additional tests and documents depending on the course or program. It is also recommended to check out The Application Services for International Students (uni-assist). It is joint venture of German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), more than 85 German higher institutions, and the Conference of University Rectors (HRK). They have centralized information database regarding German universities and institutions, admission requirements, and other helpful details.

What are the preparations I have to make?

For immigration purposes, you need to prepare the following documents: student visa; valid passport; original certificates together with original copies of the certified German translations; vaccination certificate; doctor transcription for important medications; passport-size photographs.

For the application for admission foreign students must prepare the following documents: authenticated true copy of the certificate of admission (diploma, certificates, proof of higher studies); proof that you have passed a university entrance from home country (for undergraduates); test certificate for proficiency in German language (for international programs English proficiency instead); and passport photographs.

If your school certificates do not qualify for admission studies in Germany then you can take the Feststellungsprüfung (Assessment Test). It is held twice a year and consists of not less than 3 subjects including a German language test. Alternatively, you can also prepare for the Feststellungsprüfung at a Studienkolleg by submitting a written application to the university/institution you intend to attend.

How does the admission process take place?

Now that you have all the necessary documents and passed various tests it is time for the real thing. Submit an application for admission to the college with all the required papers and fees, again requirements and charges may vary so check it first with the university. For most schools, application should be submitted on or before January 15 or July 15 for the summer and winter semesters respectively. The admission office checks and validates all the requirements and conditions for your requested program/study. You will then receive a letter rejection or letter of admission.