Suneet has been at the forefront of the international higher education industry for two decades while he established Fateh Education as one of India’s leading Education consultancies, headquartered in New Delhi. At Fateh Education, he manages the strategic functions including University relations, Government body partnerships, public relations, and new business initiatives. His business philosophy is driven by his belief that students and parents who come for counselling should receive personal advice and all the necessary information to enable them in making an informed decision. Under the leadership of Suneet, Fateh Education has grown to establish over 120 university partnerships with 100 plus employees across 8 offices in India.
Choosing to study abroad is a life-changing decision for students and it is crucial to receive genuine guidance to enable them to conquer their dreams. Today the students have access to many career paths but choosing the right option is important to build a happy and successful professional journey. While they are spoilt for choice with universities and course options, finding the right fit for them is what is important, this is where an educational counsellor’s assistance is required.
Although educational counsellors will help in understanding and benefiting from current market trends, industry opportunity, university criteria, visa process, and financial aid, it is important that the student conducts his/her own research and delve into their priorities.
Here are a few important steps you can take before approaching an education counsellor to get the most out of your relationship:
- Why you choose to study abroad: Understanding why you want to study abroad will help the counsellors choose an education destination that fits your needs. While some students chose to study abroad for the quality of education, global networking, and the experience abroad, others would like to pursue a career abroad post finishing their education. Post-study visa rules and immigration policies would be a major consideration for those wanting to work or immigrate to the study destination of their choosing. It would also be crucial to see how the destination fits with the personal and extra-curricular growth that a student is aspiring to and if the geography is conducive to personal health and well being – some would prefer to be near beaches and some mountains.
- Analyse your strengths and passion: Analyse your aptitude to pursue a certain course and career. While the student may fit into the criteria to enrol in many courses and universities, it is important for them to understand that this decision impacts their lifelong term. I would thus recommend that students understand their skills and passion while choosing a certain course and find the universities that would enable their personal growth in addition to professional. This will ensure that the counsellor has a clear understanding of your vision and guides you most effectively.
- Plan your finance: International students pay higher fees than domestic students and are not eligible for in-country student finance. So Indian students planning to study abroad need to plan their finances to cover tuition, travel, and living costs. Some students rely on their families for financial assistance others apply for scholarships and financial aid. When the counsellor has a clear view of your financial standing, they are in a better position to advise on which destinations or universities would suit your financial situation and how to get the best access to scholarships and financial aid.
- Prepare your documents: It is recommended to put together certain documents beforehand. This includes an updated resume, academic transcripts, your version of the statement of purpose, reference letters, and proof of academic qualifications. This will also enable education counsellors in guiding you to edit or modify the documents to structures and formats accepted by universities you are applying to.
- Prepare your questions for the counsellor: With most students being a first-generation study abroad aspirants, they may not know the parameters they should be using to choose wisely. Advise may pour in from many well-wishers creating further ambiguity. It is in the best interest of the student that they create a list of questions for the counsellor that they want to be addressed – this will not only help in clearing doubts and calming apprehensions but also enable the student in making the best decision for themselves.