During the Independence Day address to the nation last year, Hon'ble Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh mentioned that India needs to ensure far greater availability of educational opportunities at the higher education level so that we have not just a literate youth but a skilled youth, with skills which can fetch gainful employment. However, he expressed concern about the fact that as a country endowed with huge human resources, we cannot let the imminent shortage of skilled employees be a constraint to India's development.
As countries like India race to embrace the next phase of growth and become more globally competitive, it is technology that will provide the advantage. Every country today is vying for a place in the global economy and the network can give them the edge they need. According to Gartner's Market Trends: Industry Analysis, India 2004-2009, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) investments in India are expected to double by 2009, which implies, the need for a skilled workforce is growing exponentially.
Given India's 1.1 billion population it maybe difficult to imagine how we can face a shortage of talent. However, with literacy at 52 percent, high poverty levels (319 Million live below USD 1 per day), India's wide rural-urban divide, and the quality of education available, the paucity of talent is indeed becoming a cause for worry. In particular, this demand-supply gap is already being felt by India's burgeoning IT industry and fears of the gap widening in the future are being examined carefully. In fact, according to NASSCOM, each year over 3 million graduates and post-graduates are added to the Indian workforce. However, of these only 25 percent of technical graduates and 10-15 percent of other graduates are considered employable by the rapidly growing IT and ITES segments. Hence, what we have today is a growing skills gap reflecting the slim availability of high-quality college education in India and the galloping pace of the country's service-driven economy, which is growing faster than most countries in the world.
In this demand-supply gap scenario, a look at the Indian education system will reveal that the number of technical schools in India, including engineering colleges, has actually more than trebled in the last decade, according to the All India Council of Technical Education. Part of the skills gap problem is that only a small percentage of India's youth pursue higher education. No more than 7 per cent of Indians aged 18-25 go to college, according to official statistics. Even a more fundamental level of education is proving difficult with nearly 40 per cent of people over the age of 15 being illiterate (Source: The Economist, "A Survey of Business in India"; June 2006.)
Looking at Northern India alone, studies reveal there are a significant number of engineering institutes: Delhi 14; Chandigarh 5; Haryana 38; Himachal Pradesh 5; J&K 5; Punjab 45; Rajasthan 56. However, problems associated with a dearth of skilled teachers, funding, language, outdated syllabi, etc are commonly faced by educational institutions. Furthermore, today there is a situation wherein the best and most selective universities generate too few graduates and new private colleges are producing graduates of uneven quality leading to an imbalance.
Hence, we see that it is becoming more and more difficult to create a robust and continuous pipeline of talent. The university systems of only a few countries would be able to keep up with such demand and India is certainly having trouble.
As businesses propose to double and treble their workforces and Indian companies strive to maintain their position in the global marketplace, it has become imperative to prepare and plan for a world-class, competent, talented and innovative workforce. It is estimated that India would require a workforce of 5,00,000 capable IT professionals in the IT and IT-enabled services sectors by 2010, according to the Economist survey. However, over the past fifteen years, India has produced 1.6 million professionals and faces the uphill task of producing another 0.8 million in the next two years.
Many of the IT MNC's, viz, Cisco, Intel, Microsoft, Infosys & Wipro have alliances with academic institutions on specific initiatives covering skills based ICT education, faculty upgradation, internships, curriculum workshops, research incubation, etc. aggregating the architects of the new global economy. For instance, institutions like Shaheed Rajguru College of Applied Science in New Delhi, Chitkara College of Engineering, Chandigarh, Banasthali Vidyapith Women's University have tie ups with Cisco, Red Hat, etc.
The time is ripe for us all now to reboot the India education system by various programmes, joint initiatives and other measure by individuals, the government, industry and academia. Such activities have the potential to play an important part in plugging the talent gap in the years to come. Training individuals for the jobs of the future and allowing them to visualise what it possible today will not only make a difference in their lives but will enrich our communities now and for years to come.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
What's your dream job?
Guys i'm sure everyone of us has a dream job...job that we find so kool..
EX: A chocolate tester for Cadbury's or any Swiss brand.
b) Playing for Chelsea/Leverpool/Man U as a forward.
c) A service at the IAF.
d)manager at a gaming company
Lets talk about our dream jobs..or if u have some crazy weird idea for a job...or simply the job dat u really wanted to pursue but family didnt let u..
My dream job: BARTENDER
I still remember the day i watched "Cocktails and drems" and broke 4 glasses and one ketchup bottle trying to be tom crusie. If you have seen the movie u would know that tom crusie plays the role of bartender in it.
Yep: It's my dream job to be a BARTENDER at a beach site bar. (Dream job coz thats wat i really want to do but my parents would nva let me do dat).
www.yqworld.com (educational and career hub)
http://yq-world.blogspot.com
Monday, December 8, 2008
Self Education is the Key to Making Our Dreams Come True
"Formal education will make you a living but self education will make you a fortune."
This was said by Jim Rohn, one of the top 50 motivational speakers in personal development and one of the trainers at the top online personal development site, Success University.
Formal education is never easy. When I was at school I wasn't really that bothered about whether I got an A in Maths or History. I was too worried about whether people liked me or not, where I could get the latest Rod Stewart photos or whether my skirt was the trendiest length.
Yet, education seems to happen despite the student. We come out with our varied grades and reports of "Could do better" (in my case), but somehow we get some sort of an education. Unfortunately, going to school is never the choice of the pupil, it is a requirement. In most Western countries it is the common consensus that you must go to school so you can get a job and earn a living.
Perhaps this is why many of us achieve only average results. We are not doing it out of love, but because we have to. It's the law.
However, self-education has far more power because we only come to it through personal choice. Because we have chosen it, we feel it is our responsibility to take it on and achieve the results we want. This gives us self-motivation and we are far more likely to succeed.
I know this is true because after a mediocre set of school grades, in later years I took a degree with the Open University - for no other reason than because I wanted to - and I achieved a First Class Honours Degree in Humanities. I majored in history, which was a subject I wasn't even interested in at school.
Because it was my choice, and a subject I had come to love through my own discovery, I was far more motivated to succeed.
Unfortunately, many people believe that once they have finished their school education, there is nothing more to learn. They get a job, and might earn a comfortable living, but very rarely do they live the life of their dreams.
When we were very young children, before we were old enough to allow ourselves to be limited, our dreams were boundless. We talked about what we are going to be or do when we are grown-up without any doubt that it is possible. Now we really are grown-up, we laugh at these childish statements. We think we know better.
Sadly, the last laugh is on us. We our not only stamping on our own dreams, but those of our children too.
When people reach adulthood, they start to give up their dreams and start to play small. Those huge, passionate dreams are adjusted to the mundanity of every day life, and gradually dwindle to nothing more than a distant memory.
As this happens, our vision becomes smaller; our lives become mediocre and boring. We focus only on earning enough money to keep out of debt and paying the bills. We begin to suffer and wonder why we are not happy or fulfilled.
This is not how life is meant to be.
Inside us is a huge potential: all our big dreams and passions that we have tucked away in a dark little box. But this box is always waiting for us to re-discover and open it again.
Inside this box is all the inspiration, power and joy of life; it's all there inside of you, waiting to get out.
We are aware that it's there. There is that little niggling voice at the back of our minds that we are not living the life we wanted, but we allow ourselves to be influenced by our conditioning: "it's not possible, I can't do it, it's too big". So we stuff it down again and get on with our small lives, excusing ourselves by saying, "Ah, well, it's OK I suppose".
Do you really want to live a "just OK" kind of life?
When you pursue your dreams, you feel energised, full of inspiration and excitement. You also feel authentic. Perhaps, for the first time in your life you are living truthfully. This is an incredibly powerful feeling. And the bigger your dreams, the more intense the feeling.
It may take courage to start with, but once you have made that commitment a new world will open up to you. All you have to do is to start listening to yourself - allow that little voice to tell you what you need. Once you have done this, you will start to develop the mindset that you possess all that you need to live the life of your dreams. Your will power will strengthen, your confidence will grow - and then you will be ready to learn the strategies that will reinvent your life.
Self-education then becomes a powerful resource that you will come to with passion and a will to succeed. This is real learning.
After that, making our dreams come true is only a matter of time.
This was said by Jim Rohn, one of the top 50 motivational speakers in personal development and one of the trainers at the top online personal development site, Success University.
Formal education is never easy. When I was at school I wasn't really that bothered about whether I got an A in Maths or History. I was too worried about whether people liked me or not, where I could get the latest Rod Stewart photos or whether my skirt was the trendiest length.
Yet, education seems to happen despite the student. We come out with our varied grades and reports of "Could do better" (in my case), but somehow we get some sort of an education. Unfortunately, going to school is never the choice of the pupil, it is a requirement. In most Western countries it is the common consensus that you must go to school so you can get a job and earn a living.
Perhaps this is why many of us achieve only average results. We are not doing it out of love, but because we have to. It's the law.
However, self-education has far more power because we only come to it through personal choice. Because we have chosen it, we feel it is our responsibility to take it on and achieve the results we want. This gives us self-motivation and we are far more likely to succeed.
I know this is true because after a mediocre set of school grades, in later years I took a degree with the Open University - for no other reason than because I wanted to - and I achieved a First Class Honours Degree in Humanities. I majored in history, which was a subject I wasn't even interested in at school.
Because it was my choice, and a subject I had come to love through my own discovery, I was far more motivated to succeed.
Unfortunately, many people believe that once they have finished their school education, there is nothing more to learn. They get a job, and might earn a comfortable living, but very rarely do they live the life of their dreams.
When we were very young children, before we were old enough to allow ourselves to be limited, our dreams were boundless. We talked about what we are going to be or do when we are grown-up without any doubt that it is possible. Now we really are grown-up, we laugh at these childish statements. We think we know better.
Sadly, the last laugh is on us. We our not only stamping on our own dreams, but those of our children too.
When people reach adulthood, they start to give up their dreams and start to play small. Those huge, passionate dreams are adjusted to the mundanity of every day life, and gradually dwindle to nothing more than a distant memory.
As this happens, our vision becomes smaller; our lives become mediocre and boring. We focus only on earning enough money to keep out of debt and paying the bills. We begin to suffer and wonder why we are not happy or fulfilled.
This is not how life is meant to be.
Inside us is a huge potential: all our big dreams and passions that we have tucked away in a dark little box. But this box is always waiting for us to re-discover and open it again.
Inside this box is all the inspiration, power and joy of life; it's all there inside of you, waiting to get out.
We are aware that it's there. There is that little niggling voice at the back of our minds that we are not living the life we wanted, but we allow ourselves to be influenced by our conditioning: "it's not possible, I can't do it, it's too big". So we stuff it down again and get on with our small lives, excusing ourselves by saying, "Ah, well, it's OK I suppose".
Do you really want to live a "just OK" kind of life?
When you pursue your dreams, you feel energised, full of inspiration and excitement. You also feel authentic. Perhaps, for the first time in your life you are living truthfully. This is an incredibly powerful feeling. And the bigger your dreams, the more intense the feeling.
It may take courage to start with, but once you have made that commitment a new world will open up to you. All you have to do is to start listening to yourself - allow that little voice to tell you what you need. Once you have done this, you will start to develop the mindset that you possess all that you need to live the life of your dreams. Your will power will strengthen, your confidence will grow - and then you will be ready to learn the strategies that will reinvent your life.
Self-education then becomes a powerful resource that you will come to with passion and a will to succeed. This is real learning.
After that, making our dreams come true is only a matter of time.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Letter to Prime minister.
I am a typical mouse from Mumbai. In the local train compartment which has capacity of 100 persons, I travel with 500 more mouse. Mouse at least squeak but we don't even do that.
Today I heard your speech. In which you said 'NO BODY WOULD BE SPARED'. I would like to remind you that fourteen years has passed since serial bomb blast in Mumbai took place. Dawood was the main conspirator. Till today he is not caught. All our bolywood actors, our builders, our Gutka king meets him but your Government can not catch him. Reason is simple; all your ministers are hand in glove with him. If any attempt is made to catch him everybody will be exposed. Your statement 'NOBODY WOULD BE SPARED' is nothing but a cruel joke on this unfortunate people of India.
Enough is enough. As such after seeing terrorist attack carried out by about a dozen young boys I realize that if same thing continues days are not away when terrorist will attack by air, destroy our nuclear reactor and there will be one more Hiroshima.
We the people are left with only one mantra. Womb to Bomb to Tomb. You promised Mumbaikar Shanghai what you have given us is Jalianwala Baug.
Today only your home minister resigned. What took you so long to kick out this joker? Only reason was that he was loyal to Gandhi family. Loyalty to Gandhi family is more important than blood of innocent people, isn't it?
I am born and bought up in Mumbai for last fifty eight years. Believe me corruption in Maharashtra is worse than that in Bihar. Look at all the politician, Sharad Pawar, Chagan Bhujbal, Narayan Rane, Bal Thackray , Gopinath Munde, Raj Thackray, Vilasrao Deshmukh all are rolling in money. Vilasrao Deshmukh is one of the worst Chief minister I have seen. His only business is to increase the FSI every other day, make money and send it to Delhi so Congress can fight next election. Now the clown has found new way and will increase FSI for fisherman so they can build concrete house right on sea shore. Next time terrorist can comfortably live in those house , enjoy the beauty of sea and then attack the Mumbai at their will.
Recently I had to purchase house in Mumbai. I met about two dozen builders. Everybody wanted about 30% in black. A common person like me knows this and with all your intelligent agency & CBI you and your finance minister are not aware of it. Where all the black money goes? To the underworld isn't it? Our politicians take help of these goondas to vacate people by force. I myself was victim of it. If you have time please come to me, I will tell you everything.
If this has been land of fools, idiots then I would not have ever cared to write you this letter. Just see the tragedy, on one side we are reaching moon, people are so intelligent and on other side you politician has converted nectar into deadly poison. I am everything Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Schedule caste, OBC, Muslim OBC, Christian Schedule caste, Creamy Schedule caste only what I am not is INDIAN. You politician have raped every part of mother India by your policy of divide and rule.
Take example of former president Abdul Kalam. Such a intelligent person, such a fine human being. You politician didn't even spare him. Your party along with opposition joined the hands, because politician feels they are supreme and there is no place for good person.
Dear Mr Prime minister you are one of the most intelligent person, most learned person. Just wake up, be a real SARDAR. First and foremost expose all selfish politician. Ask Swiss bank to give name of all Indian account holder. Give reins of CBI to independent agency. Let them find wolf among us There will be political upheaval but that will better than dance of death which we are witnessing every day. Just give us ambient where we can work honestly and without fear. Let there be rule of law. Everything else will be taken care of.
Management Programme for Entrepreneurs
Nadathur S Raghavan Centre for Entrepreneurial Learning (NSRCEL) at the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore (IIMB) has announced admissions for the third batch of its Management Programme for Entrepreneurs & Family Businesses (MPEFB) course, beginning February 9, 2009.
The course content has been enhanced this year and it is designed to support learning needs of those starting a business as well as those looking to upgrade their management skills.
Admissions for the course are based on multiple criteria. The candidate should be a graduate and is required to submit a 150-word statement of purpose along with the application. Applicants are expected to be in the age group of 25-45 with track record as entrepreneurs. The batch will have 60 students. The academic year will run from February 9, 2009 to February 5, 2010, over four terms. Last date for registration is December 7, 2008. For more information, visit www.nsrcel.org.
The course content has been enhanced this year and it is designed to support learning needs of those starting a business as well as those looking to upgrade their management skills.
Admissions for the course are based on multiple criteria. The candidate should be a graduate and is required to submit a 150-word statement of purpose along with the application. Applicants are expected to be in the age group of 25-45 with track record as entrepreneurs. The batch will have 60 students. The academic year will run from February 9, 2009 to February 5, 2010, over four terms. Last date for registration is December 7, 2008. For more information, visit www.nsrcel.org.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Conquer Thy Kingdom - By Career Launcher Research Team
Know where students win and lose in the GD/PI in order to arrive at your own rule book
For want of a nail, a kingdom was lost — an oft-quoted proverb deduced from a nursery rhyme teaches us that big things can be lost over trivial matters. When I decided to write the article, I thought of taking the example of this proverb and telling the reader, “Look son! Candidates have got rejected in GD/PI over very small things and you better take care of such things, otherwise you know the consequence.” But when I read the entire nursery rhyme there was another message. The lyrics of rhyme are set in a very clever way to make the reader apply his own logic to the events and to deduce his own lessons. “For want of a nail, a kingdom was lost” is just one moral that the reader can draw. What is more important is to understand the entire process how one thing led to another and ultimately to a bigger consequence. It was not simply the want of nail that led to the loss of kingdom. It was a chain of events — one mistake after another — an offshoot of want of a nail. The process of winning and loosing in GD/PI is also like this. One mistake can lead to another and then the next. So it’s important to critically analyse the entire process and see where you can lose or win.
There is no set of rules that can teach you what to and what not to do in GD/PI because it is a process to assess a candidate’s personality, and you cannot apply the same set of rules to every individual. What becomes important in such a scenario is to understand the why and what of GD and arrive at your own rules that fit your personality. Let us know the entire process to arrive at our own set of conclusion.
The first things first — why
B-schools conduct GD/PI when students have already gone through an acid test. Isn’t clearing MBA entrance test enough to show that you are worth it? The simple answer is NO, because B-schools are simply not looking for walking dictionaries or logarithm books. They want candidates who can be trained and polished to be managers. The entrance test is just one stage where they see whether you have basic acumen to understand the course that will be taught during the MBA programme. In that too some parts of personality like ability to take decisions, ability to perform under pressure and analytical and logical thinking are assessed. But in order to get a complete idea of a candidate’s personality, B-schools go through this long process of assessing candidate’s personality.
There can be various ways of assessing an individual’s personality but group discussions and personal interviews are accepted tools to select a student because in a limited time they can give a fair idea to B-schools whether a candidate can become a manager or not. Students may argue that if this is the case, then knowing what B-schools are looking for and presenting yourself accordingly can actually help. Knowing what B-schools are looking for can actually help but not in preparing you for a superficial mask but to help you assess whether you have those traits which B-schools are looking for.
This brings us to other question: are managerial traits natural or can they be acquired? If they are natural, what is the need to do MBA? An MBA course teaches students how to achieve larger goals and it polishes those personality traits. But there are some basic traits that a candidate should have to go through the MBA process and to know that institutes conduct GD/PI.
Group discussion
A group discussion is generally a 20-to-30 minute process whose larger objective is to select those candidates who have the ability to perform in a team. Apart from this, the kind of topic given also helps panelists to know various traits of a candidate’s personality. In most of the GDs you are made to sit in a semi-circle and discuss a given topic. The topic can be as general as ‘Women make better managers’ or as specific as ‘India-US nuclear deal.’ What matters in group discussion is your stand on the topic, your ability to analyse the given topic, your awareness about the topic, and the way you present the topic. One person from the group is asked to introduce the topic, what follows is the discussion and the conclusion. The focus here is more on leadership and decision making, because in a GD you may or may not reach a consensus because the issues given to you are debatable. The end result of GD will not always be to reach a consensus but to assess your people’s skill.
Who wins?
Those who have:
Good listening skills: Listening doesn’t mean hearing. It means listening and understanding what the other person is saying. If you have good listening skills, you will be able to keep a track of where group discussion is moving. You will know different points that have already been raised and you have to bring in some new point.
Knowledge of the topic: Some years back content was the most important aspect of GD. Although content still holds its importance but in addition to that you are also weighed on how analytical and aware are you about your surroundings. Earlier it was just about discussing pros and cons of an issue but now knowledge gathered from various sources, analysed and presented in a structured form holds the key to success in GD. Reading newspapers, magazines, and going through Economic Survey would help in enriching the content of GD.
Confidence: You have all the knowledge and good listening and analytical skills, but you do not have confidence to assert what you are saying is right, may prove a negative point. In GD panelists do not know you personally; they would only be able to judge you from what you speak.
Introduction: Introducing the topic can make or break the situation. May be you do not speak for the next 10 minutes, but if you give a good introduction you are in. When the GD begins, everybody is speaking and you might not even be listened. But when you are asked to introduce the topic, you can take the situation forward. Explain the topic, don’t read what is written. Give brief introduction to the topic and what you think of it. People think that taking a stand in GD might to go against them. But there is difference in being assertive and in being rigid. You are expected to give your point of view.
Who lose?
Those who speak a lot: Of course not speaking in GD will not take you anywhere but speaking too much can also make you lose the GD. You have all the points and you can speak a lot on GD. But it is not a one-man show. It is a group discussion. If you try to grab the attention of the panelists, cut other person short, it shows that you are not a team worker. Also speaking a lot on the topic and just repeating one point will not be appreciated. You do not speak in the entire GD, but give valid points twice that can add value to the discussion, will be appreciated.
Those who become emotional: There are topics that involve some sensitive issues. You have all the valid points to support that women make better managers, but bringing in the element of argument and accusing other persons in the group will only help you in getting rejected.
Those who over-dominate: You are taking and managing the group discussion well, listening to the arguments, giving your point of view and letting everyone speak, everything is in your favour and suddenly you decide to be a godfather of somebody who has not spoken at all and who doesn’t have one single argument to present. Cutting short somebody who is making a valid point and asking the silent one to speak, can actually cut your points.
Personal interview
Your academic skills were checked in the entrance test, your people’s skills were checked in GD, now comes the turn of gauging you on your own standards. The B-schools want to know how much you are aware of yourself and how much you relate your goals to your personal self. Students spend most of the time in going through course books whereas 90 per cent of the interview questions are based on you. What could be better than answering questions on yourself? But answering questions on yourself can catch you in a tight spot. There can be some rules set when it comes to GD because there are certain expected etiquettes, but there can be no rules set for the interview because everyone has sui generis personality. The best way to tackle interview is to sit and know you in and out. Think why you want to pursue MBA. Think and make a list of your strengths and weaknesses. Not only will it help you analyse your personality, will also help you prepare many other questions for the interview. The most commonly asked questions are:
Why do you want to do MBA?
What are your personal goals?
Where do you see yourself 10 years down the line?
What are your hobbies?
What are your strengths and weakness?
Tell us about yourself.
Who win?
Those with:
Self awareness- You should be able to delve on each and every aspect of your personality, family background, the city you come from and the institutes you have studied in. If you are aware of your strengths and weaknesses you will be able to justify them, for example the panelists may ask you about your poor academic record. As long as you know why you under-perform you can prove that.
Goal clarity- You should know where the MBA programme fits in and how it will help you achieve your long-term goals. There might be different reasons for doing MBA for different people and even for one person there can be more than one objective to do MBA, but you should analyse it beforehand rather than doing it in front of the panel.
Ability to maintain calm- The real you comes up when you are under pressure situation. The panelist will try to grill you on your weakness or on the answers you are giving. They want to put you under pressure and see whether you lose your calm once put under pressure. Students at this situation become nervous and it starts showing on their faces.
Who lose?
Those who:
Give tutored answers- You have your own strengths and weaknesses. But while attending the mock interviews you were told how some students gave impressive answers and got selected. If you would try to give the same answers, you might be caught.
Lie to the panelists: They are very experienced people and can catch you if you try to bluff them on your academic record or on a fact-based question or when you try to answer the question even if you don’t know the answer.
Think that battle is over- The interview is not over till the last question is asked. The moment a candidate says, “I am sorry Sir, I don’t know the answer,” he starts coming under the pressure. There is no harm in accepting that you do not know what the population of China is. They might try to put you under pressure by asking you the population of Africa, once again you say sorry and the pressure starts mounting. The next question is of your interest, which book did you read last? You know the answer but since you have already come under pressure you might not be able to answer this question properly because you are nervous. A chain of events that might ultimately lead to getting rejected.
So the last point brings us to the “rhyme”. Let us know the rhyme to know how the kingdom was lost:
For want of a nail the shoe was lost.
For want of a shoe the horse was lost.
For want of a horse the rider was lost.
For want of a rider the battle was lost.
For want of a battle the kingdom was lost.
And all for the want of a horseshoe nail.
For want of a nail, a kingdom was lost — an oft-quoted proverb deduced from a nursery rhyme teaches us that big things can be lost over trivial matters. When I decided to write the article, I thought of taking the example of this proverb and telling the reader, “Look son! Candidates have got rejected in GD/PI over very small things and you better take care of such things, otherwise you know the consequence.” But when I read the entire nursery rhyme there was another message. The lyrics of rhyme are set in a very clever way to make the reader apply his own logic to the events and to deduce his own lessons. “For want of a nail, a kingdom was lost” is just one moral that the reader can draw. What is more important is to understand the entire process how one thing led to another and ultimately to a bigger consequence. It was not simply the want of nail that led to the loss of kingdom. It was a chain of events — one mistake after another — an offshoot of want of a nail. The process of winning and loosing in GD/PI is also like this. One mistake can lead to another and then the next. So it’s important to critically analyse the entire process and see where you can lose or win.
There is no set of rules that can teach you what to and what not to do in GD/PI because it is a process to assess a candidate’s personality, and you cannot apply the same set of rules to every individual. What becomes important in such a scenario is to understand the why and what of GD and arrive at your own rules that fit your personality. Let us know the entire process to arrive at our own set of conclusion.
The first things first — why
B-schools conduct GD/PI when students have already gone through an acid test. Isn’t clearing MBA entrance test enough to show that you are worth it? The simple answer is NO, because B-schools are simply not looking for walking dictionaries or logarithm books. They want candidates who can be trained and polished to be managers. The entrance test is just one stage where they see whether you have basic acumen to understand the course that will be taught during the MBA programme. In that too some parts of personality like ability to take decisions, ability to perform under pressure and analytical and logical thinking are assessed. But in order to get a complete idea of a candidate’s personality, B-schools go through this long process of assessing candidate’s personality.
There can be various ways of assessing an individual’s personality but group discussions and personal interviews are accepted tools to select a student because in a limited time they can give a fair idea to B-schools whether a candidate can become a manager or not. Students may argue that if this is the case, then knowing what B-schools are looking for and presenting yourself accordingly can actually help. Knowing what B-schools are looking for can actually help but not in preparing you for a superficial mask but to help you assess whether you have those traits which B-schools are looking for.
This brings us to other question: are managerial traits natural or can they be acquired? If they are natural, what is the need to do MBA? An MBA course teaches students how to achieve larger goals and it polishes those personality traits. But there are some basic traits that a candidate should have to go through the MBA process and to know that institutes conduct GD/PI.
Group discussion
A group discussion is generally a 20-to-30 minute process whose larger objective is to select those candidates who have the ability to perform in a team. Apart from this, the kind of topic given also helps panelists to know various traits of a candidate’s personality. In most of the GDs you are made to sit in a semi-circle and discuss a given topic. The topic can be as general as ‘Women make better managers’ or as specific as ‘India-US nuclear deal.’ What matters in group discussion is your stand on the topic, your ability to analyse the given topic, your awareness about the topic, and the way you present the topic. One person from the group is asked to introduce the topic, what follows is the discussion and the conclusion. The focus here is more on leadership and decision making, because in a GD you may or may not reach a consensus because the issues given to you are debatable. The end result of GD will not always be to reach a consensus but to assess your people’s skill.
Who wins?
Those who have:
Good listening skills: Listening doesn’t mean hearing. It means listening and understanding what the other person is saying. If you have good listening skills, you will be able to keep a track of where group discussion is moving. You will know different points that have already been raised and you have to bring in some new point.
Knowledge of the topic: Some years back content was the most important aspect of GD. Although content still holds its importance but in addition to that you are also weighed on how analytical and aware are you about your surroundings. Earlier it was just about discussing pros and cons of an issue but now knowledge gathered from various sources, analysed and presented in a structured form holds the key to success in GD. Reading newspapers, magazines, and going through Economic Survey would help in enriching the content of GD.
Confidence: You have all the knowledge and good listening and analytical skills, but you do not have confidence to assert what you are saying is right, may prove a negative point. In GD panelists do not know you personally; they would only be able to judge you from what you speak.
Introduction: Introducing the topic can make or break the situation. May be you do not speak for the next 10 minutes, but if you give a good introduction you are in. When the GD begins, everybody is speaking and you might not even be listened. But when you are asked to introduce the topic, you can take the situation forward. Explain the topic, don’t read what is written. Give brief introduction to the topic and what you think of it. People think that taking a stand in GD might to go against them. But there is difference in being assertive and in being rigid. You are expected to give your point of view.
Who lose?
Those who speak a lot: Of course not speaking in GD will not take you anywhere but speaking too much can also make you lose the GD. You have all the points and you can speak a lot on GD. But it is not a one-man show. It is a group discussion. If you try to grab the attention of the panelists, cut other person short, it shows that you are not a team worker. Also speaking a lot on the topic and just repeating one point will not be appreciated. You do not speak in the entire GD, but give valid points twice that can add value to the discussion, will be appreciated.
Those who become emotional: There are topics that involve some sensitive issues. You have all the valid points to support that women make better managers, but bringing in the element of argument and accusing other persons in the group will only help you in getting rejected.
Those who over-dominate: You are taking and managing the group discussion well, listening to the arguments, giving your point of view and letting everyone speak, everything is in your favour and suddenly you decide to be a godfather of somebody who has not spoken at all and who doesn’t have one single argument to present. Cutting short somebody who is making a valid point and asking the silent one to speak, can actually cut your points.
Personal interview
Your academic skills were checked in the entrance test, your people’s skills were checked in GD, now comes the turn of gauging you on your own standards. The B-schools want to know how much you are aware of yourself and how much you relate your goals to your personal self. Students spend most of the time in going through course books whereas 90 per cent of the interview questions are based on you. What could be better than answering questions on yourself? But answering questions on yourself can catch you in a tight spot. There can be some rules set when it comes to GD because there are certain expected etiquettes, but there can be no rules set for the interview because everyone has sui generis personality. The best way to tackle interview is to sit and know you in and out. Think why you want to pursue MBA. Think and make a list of your strengths and weaknesses. Not only will it help you analyse your personality, will also help you prepare many other questions for the interview. The most commonly asked questions are:
Why do you want to do MBA?
What are your personal goals?
Where do you see yourself 10 years down the line?
What are your hobbies?
What are your strengths and weakness?
Tell us about yourself.
Who win?
Those with:
Self awareness- You should be able to delve on each and every aspect of your personality, family background, the city you come from and the institutes you have studied in. If you are aware of your strengths and weaknesses you will be able to justify them, for example the panelists may ask you about your poor academic record. As long as you know why you under-perform you can prove that.
Goal clarity- You should know where the MBA programme fits in and how it will help you achieve your long-term goals. There might be different reasons for doing MBA for different people and even for one person there can be more than one objective to do MBA, but you should analyse it beforehand rather than doing it in front of the panel.
Ability to maintain calm- The real you comes up when you are under pressure situation. The panelist will try to grill you on your weakness or on the answers you are giving. They want to put you under pressure and see whether you lose your calm once put under pressure. Students at this situation become nervous and it starts showing on their faces.
Who lose?
Those who:
Give tutored answers- You have your own strengths and weaknesses. But while attending the mock interviews you were told how some students gave impressive answers and got selected. If you would try to give the same answers, you might be caught.
Lie to the panelists: They are very experienced people and can catch you if you try to bluff them on your academic record or on a fact-based question or when you try to answer the question even if you don’t know the answer.
Think that battle is over- The interview is not over till the last question is asked. The moment a candidate says, “I am sorry Sir, I don’t know the answer,” he starts coming under the pressure. There is no harm in accepting that you do not know what the population of China is. They might try to put you under pressure by asking you the population of Africa, once again you say sorry and the pressure starts mounting. The next question is of your interest, which book did you read last? You know the answer but since you have already come under pressure you might not be able to answer this question properly because you are nervous. A chain of events that might ultimately lead to getting rejected.
So the last point brings us to the “rhyme”. Let us know the rhyme to know how the kingdom was lost:
For want of a nail the shoe was lost.
For want of a shoe the horse was lost.
For want of a horse the rider was lost.
For want of a rider the battle was lost.
For want of a battle the kingdom was lost.
And all for the want of a horseshoe nail.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
UEI Global Comes Up With BHATM Course
United Education Institute Global (UEI Global) is for the first time offering a Bachelors degree in the areas of Hospitality, Aviation and Tourism Management (BHATM). It has tied up with the Osmania University, Hyderabad a five-star rated University by the University Grants Commission (UGC). Knowledge in the three streams will create avenues for over 7.5 Lakh jobs every year. UEI Global School of Service Management has announced the launch of their degree programme with three streams.
UEI Global has also announced its tie-up with Vatel International Business School of Hotel and Tourism Management to offer an international MBA course in Hospitality Management with a Master's degree from France. Students will have the option of completing the first two years of the course in UEI Global's Indian institutes and the third year with Vatel in France or at any of their 20 campuses across the world.
UEI Global has also announced its tie-up with Vatel International Business School of Hotel and Tourism Management to offer an international MBA course in Hospitality Management with a Master's degree from France. Students will have the option of completing the first two years of the course in UEI Global's Indian institutes and the third year with Vatel in France or at any of their 20 campuses across the world.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
All India Engineering Entrance Examination for Admission to B.E/B. Arch./B.Tech.
Central Board of Secondary Education, Delhi, conducts an All-India Engineering/Pharmacy/ Architecture Entrance Examination (AIEE) which is held during May for admission to Engineering, Architecture and Pharmacy* programmes offered in the following deemed Universities, Central Institutions and Institutions in the States/UTs:
National Level Institutions
Central Universities : Delhi University , Aligarh Muslim University ( Aligarh ), Jamia Millia Islamia ( Delhi ), Pondicherry University , and any other Central University having UG programmes in Engineering, Architecture/Planning and Pharmacy.
National institutes of Technology : Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology, ftllahabad (Uttar Pradesh), Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh), National Institute of Technology, Calicut (Kerala), National Institute of Technology, Hamirpur (Himachal Pradesh), Malvjya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur (Rajasthan), Dr. B R Ambedkat National Institute of Technology, Jalandhar (Punjab), National Institute of Technology, Kurukshetra (Haryana), Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology, Nagpur (Maharashtra), National Institute of Technology, Rourkela (Orissa), National Institute of Technology, Silchar (Assam), Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Institute of Technology, Surat (Gujarat), Kamataka National Institute of Technology, Surathkal fKarnataka), National Institute of Technology, Warangal (Andhra Pradesh), National Institute of Technology, Durgapur (West Bengal), National Institute of Technology, Jamshedpur (Jharkhand), National Institute of Technology, Srinagar (J& K), National Institute of Technology, Tiruchirapalii (Tamil Nadu), National Institute of Technology, Patna.
Deemed Universities : Allahabad Agricultural Institute (Allahabad), Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham (Coimbatore), Avinashilingam institute for Home Science & Higher Education for Women (Coimbatore), Bharati Vidyapeeth (Pune), Birla Institute of Technology & Science (Pilani), Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra (Ranchi), College of Engineering & Technology, Gurukul (Haridwar), Dayalbagh Educational institution, Dayalbagh (Agra), Dr. D.Y. Patil Institute of Engineering and Technology (Navi Mumbai), Dr. D.Y. Patil Institute of Engineering and Technology, Pimpri (Pune), Dr. MGR Educational and Research Institute, Chermai, Indian Institute of Information Technology & Management, (Gwalior), Indian Institute of Information Technology (Allahabad), Internationa! Institute of Information Technology (Hyderabad), Jamia Hamdard (New Delhi), Manipal Academy of Higher Education (Manipal), Punjab Engineering College (Chandigarh), Rajasthan Vidyapeeth pjdaipur), Sathyabama Institute of Science & Technology (Chennai), School of Planning & Architecture (New Delhi), Shanmugha Arts, Science, Technology &c Research Academy (Thanjavur), Thapar Institute of Engineering &c Technology (Patiala), Vellore Institute of Technology (Vellore), Vinayaka Mission's Research Foundation (Salem) and any other Deemed University having UG programmes in Engineering, Architecture/Planning and Pharmacy.
Other Institutions : Indian Institute of Technology Design and Manufacturing, Kancheepuram (T.N.) Indian Institute of Technology Design and Manufacturing, Jabalpur, (M.P.), Indian Institute of Carpet Technology, Bhadohi (U.P.), National Institute of Foundry & Forge Technology (Ranchi), Army Institute of Technology (Pune), Dhirubhai Ainbani Institute of Information Technology and Communication Technology (Gandhinagar) and any other Central/State Institution having UG programmes in Engineering, Architecture/ Planning and Pharmacy and admitting students partly or fully on All India basis.
Steat Leyel Institutions
(All Govt. /Covt. Aided and Self-Financing Institutions)
States/UTs - Tor ALL seats : Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh (UT), Uttaranchal Any other State/UT that may opt to use A1EEE merit for admission to UG programes in Engineering, Architecture/ Planning and Pharmacy in their own institute.
States/UTs - For OPEN Seats Only (To be filled up on the basis of All-India Merit ): Haryana, Rajasthan, Orissa, and all other States/UTs that have Open
Seats in their State level institutions.
Eligibility : Candidates must have passed 10+2 (Senior Secondary) Examination or its equivalent examination from a recognized board/university for admission to B.E/B.Tcch and B.Arcli. & Planning Courses as under:
Courses Compulsory Subject Anyone of the
Optional Subject
B.E/B.Tech. Physics & Chemistry, Biotechnology
Mathematics Computer Science, Biology
B.Pharma Physics & Maths, Biotechnology
Chemistry Computer Sc., Biology
B.Arch./B.Plang. Physics & Chemistry
Mathematics Computer Science
Biology Engineering
The Candidates appearing in 10+2 final or equivalent examination may also appear in AIEEE provisionally subject to their fulfilling the specified eligibility conditions at the time of appearing for counselling.
Age: Upper age limit is 25 years as on October 1 of the year of admission test. However, in the case of SC, ST and PH candidates, upper age limit is relaxed by 5 years. Date of birth as recorded in the Secondary Education Board/University certificate only would be taken as authentic.
Scheme of Examination:
Candidates opting for degree courses in Engineering and Architecture would be required to undertake test in different papers as mentioned below:
Course Paper for Entrance Test
B.E/B.Tech Paper 1 & Paper 2
B.Pharma Paper 1 & Paper 2
B.Arch Paper 2 & Paper 4
Schedule of Examination:
Candidates opting for degree courses in Engineering, Architecture and Pharmacy
would be required to undertake test in different papers as mentioned below:
Paper 1 Physics & Chemistry
Paper 2 Mathematics
Paper 3 Biology (Botany & Zoology)
Paper 4 Aptitude Test
Notification: January.
Last date for receipt of completed Application form is March.
Issue of Application form : February.
Further details may be had from the office of the Joint Secretary, AIEEE, Central Board of Secondary Education, Shiksha Sadan, 17, Rouse Avenue , Institutional Area, New Delhi 110002.
www.yqworld.com
National Level Institutions
Central Universities : Delhi University , Aligarh Muslim University ( Aligarh ), Jamia Millia Islamia ( Delhi ), Pondicherry University , and any other Central University having UG programmes in Engineering, Architecture/Planning and Pharmacy.
National institutes of Technology : Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology, ftllahabad (Uttar Pradesh), Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh), National Institute of Technology, Calicut (Kerala), National Institute of Technology, Hamirpur (Himachal Pradesh), Malvjya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur (Rajasthan), Dr. B R Ambedkat National Institute of Technology, Jalandhar (Punjab), National Institute of Technology, Kurukshetra (Haryana), Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology, Nagpur (Maharashtra), National Institute of Technology, Rourkela (Orissa), National Institute of Technology, Silchar (Assam), Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Institute of Technology, Surat (Gujarat), Kamataka National Institute of Technology, Surathkal fKarnataka), National Institute of Technology, Warangal (Andhra Pradesh), National Institute of Technology, Durgapur (West Bengal), National Institute of Technology, Jamshedpur (Jharkhand), National Institute of Technology, Srinagar (J& K), National Institute of Technology, Tiruchirapalii (Tamil Nadu), National Institute of Technology, Patna.
Deemed Universities : Allahabad Agricultural Institute (Allahabad), Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham (Coimbatore), Avinashilingam institute for Home Science & Higher Education for Women (Coimbatore), Bharati Vidyapeeth (Pune), Birla Institute of Technology & Science (Pilani), Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra (Ranchi), College of Engineering & Technology, Gurukul (Haridwar), Dayalbagh Educational institution, Dayalbagh (Agra), Dr. D.Y. Patil Institute of Engineering and Technology (Navi Mumbai), Dr. D.Y. Patil Institute of Engineering and Technology, Pimpri (Pune), Dr. MGR Educational and Research Institute, Chermai, Indian Institute of Information Technology & Management, (Gwalior), Indian Institute of Information Technology (Allahabad), Internationa! Institute of Information Technology (Hyderabad), Jamia Hamdard (New Delhi), Manipal Academy of Higher Education (Manipal), Punjab Engineering College (Chandigarh), Rajasthan Vidyapeeth pjdaipur), Sathyabama Institute of Science & Technology (Chennai), School of Planning & Architecture (New Delhi), Shanmugha Arts, Science, Technology &c Research Academy (Thanjavur), Thapar Institute of Engineering &c Technology (Patiala), Vellore Institute of Technology (Vellore), Vinayaka Mission's Research Foundation (Salem) and any other Deemed University having UG programmes in Engineering, Architecture/Planning and Pharmacy.
Other Institutions : Indian Institute of Technology Design and Manufacturing, Kancheepuram (T.N.) Indian Institute of Technology Design and Manufacturing, Jabalpur, (M.P.), Indian Institute of Carpet Technology, Bhadohi (U.P.), National Institute of Foundry & Forge Technology (Ranchi), Army Institute of Technology (Pune), Dhirubhai Ainbani Institute of Information Technology and Communication Technology (Gandhinagar) and any other Central/State Institution having UG programmes in Engineering, Architecture/ Planning and Pharmacy and admitting students partly or fully on All India basis.
Steat Leyel Institutions
(All Govt. /Covt. Aided and Self-Financing Institutions)
States/UTs - Tor ALL seats : Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh (UT), Uttaranchal Any other State/UT that may opt to use A1EEE merit for admission to UG programes in Engineering, Architecture/ Planning and Pharmacy in their own institute.
States/UTs - For OPEN Seats Only (To be filled up on the basis of All-India Merit ): Haryana, Rajasthan, Orissa, and all other States/UTs that have Open
Seats in their State level institutions.
Eligibility : Candidates must have passed 10+2 (Senior Secondary) Examination or its equivalent examination from a recognized board/university for admission to B.E/B.Tcch and B.Arcli. & Planning Courses as under:
Courses Compulsory Subject Anyone of the
Optional Subject
B.E/B.Tech. Physics & Chemistry, Biotechnology
Mathematics Computer Science, Biology
B.Pharma Physics & Maths, Biotechnology
Chemistry Computer Sc., Biology
B.Arch./B.Plang. Physics & Chemistry
Mathematics Computer Science
Biology Engineering
The Candidates appearing in 10+2 final or equivalent examination may also appear in AIEEE provisionally subject to their fulfilling the specified eligibility conditions at the time of appearing for counselling.
Age: Upper age limit is 25 years as on October 1 of the year of admission test. However, in the case of SC, ST and PH candidates, upper age limit is relaxed by 5 years. Date of birth as recorded in the Secondary Education Board/University certificate only would be taken as authentic.
Scheme of Examination:
Candidates opting for degree courses in Engineering and Architecture would be required to undertake test in different papers as mentioned below:
Course Paper for Entrance Test
B.E/B.Tech Paper 1 & Paper 2
B.Pharma Paper 1 & Paper 2
B.Arch Paper 2 & Paper 4
Schedule of Examination:
Candidates opting for degree courses in Engineering, Architecture and Pharmacy
would be required to undertake test in different papers as mentioned below:
Paper 1 Physics & Chemistry
Paper 2 Mathematics
Paper 3 Biology (Botany & Zoology)
Paper 4 Aptitude Test
Notification: January.
Last date for receipt of completed Application form is March.
Issue of Application form : February.
Further details may be had from the office of the Joint Secretary, AIEEE, Central Board of Secondary Education, Shiksha Sadan, 17, Rouse Avenue , Institutional Area, New Delhi 110002.
www.yqworld.com
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Career in Media Industry
Media industry is very vivid and one of the most versatile industry. Mass media, as it is called theoretically, is one of the most influential industries as it is directly connected with the mass audience. The main work of Media industry is to provide information and generate public opinion. The Media industry first started with the mass distribution of newspapers and magazines. Today, the definition of media has changed and media has many sub forms like Broadcasting with the help of TV and radio, Entertainment with use of audio visuals -films and videos, internet that includes blogs, forums, music, news, then Publishing of Books, papers, magazines, and it also includes postal mail, telephony and other interactive Media. The media has various purposes like providing entertainment, education, Advocacy among others. Thus the scope of a Career in media industry is vast.
Scope of Media Industry in India
According to the market analysis and research, Indian media industry has projected size of 7.7 billion US$. Moreover, it is estimated to be over 18 billion US$ by 2012.The television sector has a 42 % share and print media has 30 % share. The Indian entertainment industry is one of the fastest growing in the world giving 1000 films per year. It is the largest output by any media industry in the world.
Raised regulations, quality content development, competitive pricing, increased consumer base and significant marketing, creative use of technology and work effectiveness are the key drivers of Indian media industry. Because of varied structure and root presences, many media companies in India have grown up speedily and are recruiting newer young talent for increased efficiency and creativity. Because of this starting a Career in media industry is the latest trend among many youngsters in India. The strong influence that media holds over people's life has also attracted many to start a career in Media.The business opportunities in Indian media and entertainment industry are enormous. There is untapped potential along with the good creativity talent. In addition, good economy, FDI inflow, higher per capita income are the main reasons, because of which new media industries are opening up, thus giving good Career in media industry. Some of the reputed media companies in India are- Times Group which owns Indiatimes, Filmfare, Planet M, Times of India and many other brands, Adlabs, Zeetelefilms, UTV, Nimbus Communications, Sahara Group, Mukta Arts, Shrinagar Group, News Corporation, Sony, Walt Disney, Sun Network, BMG, Universal, The Indian Express, Manorama etc.
www.yqworld.com
Scope of Media Industry in India
According to the market analysis and research, Indian media industry has projected size of 7.7 billion US$. Moreover, it is estimated to be over 18 billion US$ by 2012.The television sector has a 42 % share and print media has 30 % share. The Indian entertainment industry is one of the fastest growing in the world giving 1000 films per year. It is the largest output by any media industry in the world.
Raised regulations, quality content development, competitive pricing, increased consumer base and significant marketing, creative use of technology and work effectiveness are the key drivers of Indian media industry. Because of varied structure and root presences, many media companies in India have grown up speedily and are recruiting newer young talent for increased efficiency and creativity. Because of this starting a Career in media industry is the latest trend among many youngsters in India. The strong influence that media holds over people's life has also attracted many to start a career in Media.The business opportunities in Indian media and entertainment industry are enormous. There is untapped potential along with the good creativity talent. In addition, good economy, FDI inflow, higher per capita income are the main reasons, because of which new media industries are opening up, thus giving good Career in media industry. Some of the reputed media companies in India are- Times Group which owns Indiatimes, Filmfare, Planet M, Times of India and many other brands, Adlabs, Zeetelefilms, UTV, Nimbus Communications, Sahara Group, Mukta Arts, Shrinagar Group, News Corporation, Sony, Walt Disney, Sun Network, BMG, Universal, The Indian Express, Manorama etc.
www.yqworld.com
Sunday, November 9, 2008
You can prepare yourself to succeed in your studies.
#Take responsibility for yourselfRecognize that in order to succeed you need to make decisions about your priorities, your time, and your resources.
#Center yourself around your values and principlesDon't let friends and acquaintances dictate what you consider important.
#Put first things firstFollow up on the priorities you have set for yourself, and don't let others, or other interests, distract you from your goals.
#Discover your key productivity periods and placesMorning, afternoon, or evening?Find spaces where you can be the most focused and productive.Prioritize these for your most difficult study challenges
#Consider yourself in a win-win situationWhen you contribute your best to a class, you, your fellow students, and even your teacher will benefit. Your grade can then be one additional check on your performance
#First understand others, then attempt to be understoodWhen you have an issue with an instructor (a questionable grade, an assignment deadline, etc.) put yourself in the instructor's place.Now ask yourself how you can best make your argument given his/her situation .
#Look for better solutions to problemsFor example, if you don't understand the course material, don't just re-read it. Try something else! Consult with the professor, a tutor, an academic advisor, a classmate, a study group, or your school's study skills center.
#Look to continually challenge yourself
#Center yourself around your values and principlesDon't let friends and acquaintances dictate what you consider important.
#Put first things firstFollow up on the priorities you have set for yourself, and don't let others, or other interests, distract you from your goals.
#Discover your key productivity periods and placesMorning, afternoon, or evening?Find spaces where you can be the most focused and productive.Prioritize these for your most difficult study challenges
#Consider yourself in a win-win situationWhen you contribute your best to a class, you, your fellow students, and even your teacher will benefit. Your grade can then be one additional check on your performance
#First understand others, then attempt to be understoodWhen you have an issue with an instructor (a questionable grade, an assignment deadline, etc.) put yourself in the instructor's place.Now ask yourself how you can best make your argument given his/her situation .
#Look for better solutions to problemsFor example, if you don't understand the course material, don't just re-read it. Try something else! Consult with the professor, a tutor, an academic advisor, a classmate, a study group, or your school's study skills center.
#Look to continually challenge yourself
Thursday, November 6, 2008
So You Have Graduated College, Now What?
In tough economic times, more students are graduating with little or no career prospects. Many of these graduates who cannot find jobs are starting to feel the pressure. Just six months after graduating, all those loans they had to take out to pay for their education are coming back to bite them. Recently, I went searching for open positions related to my field of study (marketing and communications) for when I graduate in May. Even when searching through the countless positions on websites like Monster.com, most positions for my major requires years of prior experience. I also visited a college career fair, and most of the companies were not looking for business graduates, but were more interested in pharmacists. Unfortunately, four or five years of sitting through endless lectures and classes devoted to the very position they are seeking does not count toward any experience. The odds are not in their favor either. In the second quarter of 2008 the Labor Department gave the unemployment rate for those in the 20 - 24 year old group (the age range is the most likely for new graduates). Unemployment had risen from 7.7% last year to 9.8% this year. Most colleges require students to intern and/or take career counseling to give them an idea of what to expect after graduation, but they still do not guarantee a job after graduation. So you are a new graduate and cannot seem to stand out of the crowd? Here are a couple of tips to make you and your resume more noticeable to potential employers. -Network. Networking helps you stand out to an employer. If you are currently a student, become involved in plenty of events and groups related to your major. -An impressive resume. Making your resume stand out is not as hard as it may seem. Little things such as adding a picture of you or using positive phrases can add luster to an otherwise vanilla resume. An example of a use of positive language is instead of saying you have no experience in a certain area, saying that you are willing and open to learning is obviously more constructive. Employers are always more open to someone who is willing to conform to their job descriptions, rather than a position having to conform to an applicant. Student loans are creeping up and you still have not gotten the position to build your career on? Some people have begun to take a more unconventional attitude on job hunting: Create their own career by starting their own business. Once thought to be something only highly experienced professionals do, new graduates are starting businesses related to their fields of study.If you have the ambition to start your own business, either a new graduate or someone who just has some new or great ideas, here are a few pointers that may help you start:-Since you are probably bogged down with debt (thanks to student loans), try to limit your start up costs. Internet companies generally have very low start up costs, as long as you have an idea as to what you're doing. Starting a business with a friend can also limit your costs and you will have more than one person working toward a goal. -Remember those old textbooks that you could not or did not sell? Some of them have some great ideas in them. I have kept marketing books just because I thought in the future they could come in handy. -Have a business plan. If you have a business plan, even a simple one, you always have a reference point. Eventually we all hit road blocks, like writing essays and having an outline, a business plan can keep you in order.-Finally, do not give up and work hard to achieve your goals. Getting through college was not easy (or cheap), so do not be discouraged if your business does not take off immediately. Successful businesses take patience, time and a LOT of hard work.It is not hard to become discouraged by the declining job market. Plenty of people I know are working in fast food restaurants while waiting to land "the job." When the economy is good, graduates may get multiple offers with competing salaries, but now these offers are not landing in people's laps like they once were. An applicant must do more to be noticed in today's job market.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Why Study in the United Kingdom?
Hundreds of thousands of international students choose the UK every year. From India alone there are currently more than 7,500 students studying in UK universities and colleges and if you are reading this article there is a very good chance that you too are considering your future studies in the UK.
Here in the UK we have been welcoming international students for generations. We have long experience of looking after your needs, and will give you special support from the moment you apply throughout your time in the UK.
For example, your local British Council office or British Library will advise on where to find information about courses and how to apply. We find that the most popular subjects with Indian students are Business and Management Studies, Engineering, Information Technology, Medicine and subjects related to medicine, Law, Science and Technology courses and Art & Design courses. However, with courses on offer from Equine Studies to Video Games Technology you may find it difficult to choose!!
One question that I am constantly asked is "How much will a UK education cost me?" The answer? It costs less then you think!
The cost of an education in the UK consists of two areas: course fees and living costs.
Comparing course fees between countries is by no means a clear-cut process. But because courses in the UK are often shorter, the total cost of study can be lower. Shorter courses also mean students can realise their earning potential sooner than their counterparts elsewhere. All of which makes UK courses better value for money overall.
The information below gives a rough idea of annual overseas fees in the UK, but remember it is always best to check exact costs with the institutions you're interested in.
Universities
Undergraduate classroom-based courses £6,000 - £7,000Undergraduate laboratory-based courses £8,000 - £9,000Undergraduate clinical courses £16,000 - £17,000Postgraduate classroom-based courses £6,000 - £7,000Postgraduate clinical-based courses £16,000 - £17,500MBA courses £6,000 - £16,000
Further Education Colleges
Access Courses £3,750 - £5,500Further education courses £3,000 - £4,250Higher level courses (such as HNC/Ds) £4,000 - £7,950
The cost of living is not the same throughout the country. Generally, it is more expensive to live in London and the South-East of England, and cheaper in the North of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Average annual costs of living for a typical student in the UK are given below:
LondonAcademic year £7,300Per month £811
Outside LondonAcademic year £5,936Per month £659
It is also worth remembering that there are many benefits available to international students that can make life in the UK more affordable;
NUS DiscountsThe National Union of Students negotiate discounts on behalf of their members which Can mean up to 50% off anything from books, stationery and food to clothes, travel and entertainment.
Free Healthcare.All international students staying in the UK for a period of six months or more qualify for free healthcare through the National Health Service.
Part-time Work.If you want to earn extra money, you can work for up to twenty hours per week during term and full-time in your vacations.
So now that you know it is affordable your next questions are likely to be about the institutions themselves and what you can expect once you get to the UK.
Universities and colleges in the UK are increasingly international. When you study here, you are likely to find yourself meeting students from all over the world. More than ninety countries may be represented on campus and each student makes a unique contribution to the life of the institution, both academically and culturally.
You can see some of this diversity in the student societies established within students' unions, where those centred around religious or geographical themes are numerous.
Many UK universities and colleges have specialist international officers whose job is to provide support for international students. You can approach these officers for independent advice and information on almost anything, from accommodation through to how to extend your permission to stay in the UK.
Most institutions also arrange orientation programmes for new international students at the beginning of the academic session. The duration and content of these programmes vary considerably: some last only one or two days and others for a whole week. Typical elements include: a tour of the campus, an overview of the facilities and how to use them, explanations of the institution's rules, help with registering for your course, an outline of teaching methods, discussion of important aspects of life in the UK, and social events where you can meet staff and other students.
Once you've settled in, you'll find that the support continues. Advice on personal, financial, practical and health matters is always on hand, and at the end of course you can even seek advice from qualified career counsellors who will help you make a decision about your future career options.
If so, congratulations on the wise choice you have made - I can assure you that it is a good one!
So if you decide to join the thousands of international students in the UK in becoming the best you can be, congratulations - I can assure you that your decision is a wise one!
(www.yqworld.com)
Here in the UK we have been welcoming international students for generations. We have long experience of looking after your needs, and will give you special support from the moment you apply throughout your time in the UK.
For example, your local British Council office or British Library will advise on where to find information about courses and how to apply. We find that the most popular subjects with Indian students are Business and Management Studies, Engineering, Information Technology, Medicine and subjects related to medicine, Law, Science and Technology courses and Art & Design courses. However, with courses on offer from Equine Studies to Video Games Technology you may find it difficult to choose!!
One question that I am constantly asked is "How much will a UK education cost me?" The answer? It costs less then you think!
The cost of an education in the UK consists of two areas: course fees and living costs.
Comparing course fees between countries is by no means a clear-cut process. But because courses in the UK are often shorter, the total cost of study can be lower. Shorter courses also mean students can realise their earning potential sooner than their counterparts elsewhere. All of which makes UK courses better value for money overall.
The information below gives a rough idea of annual overseas fees in the UK, but remember it is always best to check exact costs with the institutions you're interested in.
Universities
Undergraduate classroom-based courses £6,000 - £7,000Undergraduate laboratory-based courses £8,000 - £9,000Undergraduate clinical courses £16,000 - £17,000Postgraduate classroom-based courses £6,000 - £7,000Postgraduate clinical-based courses £16,000 - £17,500MBA courses £6,000 - £16,000
Further Education Colleges
Access Courses £3,750 - £5,500Further education courses £3,000 - £4,250Higher level courses (such as HNC/Ds) £4,000 - £7,950
The cost of living is not the same throughout the country. Generally, it is more expensive to live in London and the South-East of England, and cheaper in the North of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Average annual costs of living for a typical student in the UK are given below:
LondonAcademic year £7,300Per month £811
Outside LondonAcademic year £5,936Per month £659
It is also worth remembering that there are many benefits available to international students that can make life in the UK more affordable;
NUS DiscountsThe National Union of Students negotiate discounts on behalf of their members which Can mean up to 50% off anything from books, stationery and food to clothes, travel and entertainment.
Free Healthcare.All international students staying in the UK for a period of six months or more qualify for free healthcare through the National Health Service.
Part-time Work.If you want to earn extra money, you can work for up to twenty hours per week during term and full-time in your vacations.
So now that you know it is affordable your next questions are likely to be about the institutions themselves and what you can expect once you get to the UK.
Universities and colleges in the UK are increasingly international. When you study here, you are likely to find yourself meeting students from all over the world. More than ninety countries may be represented on campus and each student makes a unique contribution to the life of the institution, both academically and culturally.
You can see some of this diversity in the student societies established within students' unions, where those centred around religious or geographical themes are numerous.
Many UK universities and colleges have specialist international officers whose job is to provide support for international students. You can approach these officers for independent advice and information on almost anything, from accommodation through to how to extend your permission to stay in the UK.
Most institutions also arrange orientation programmes for new international students at the beginning of the academic session. The duration and content of these programmes vary considerably: some last only one or two days and others for a whole week. Typical elements include: a tour of the campus, an overview of the facilities and how to use them, explanations of the institution's rules, help with registering for your course, an outline of teaching methods, discussion of important aspects of life in the UK, and social events where you can meet staff and other students.
Once you've settled in, you'll find that the support continues. Advice on personal, financial, practical and health matters is always on hand, and at the end of course you can even seek advice from qualified career counsellors who will help you make a decision about your future career options.
If so, congratulations on the wise choice you have made - I can assure you that it is a good one!
So if you decide to join the thousands of international students in the UK in becoming the best you can be, congratulations - I can assure you that your decision is a wise one!
(www.yqworld.com)
Friday, October 31, 2008
MBA through Semester Mode Now
Madurai Kamaraj University has started a two-year MBA programme of the Directorate of Distance Education. This will be available in semester mode from next academic year. While each semester will have five papers, the course duration remains same. A student of this distance education course had to write 11 papers each year and it was becoming increasingly difficult for students to prepare/write all of them, he said.
After getting members’ consent, the Vice-Chancellor R. Karpaga Kumaravel approved the resolution stating that MBA non-semester pattern would be changed to semester type. There were around 11,000 students for this course. The number of subjects, fees and scheme of examination would remain the same.
After getting members’ consent, the Vice-Chancellor R. Karpaga Kumaravel approved the resolution stating that MBA non-semester pattern would be changed to semester type. There were around 11,000 students for this course. The number of subjects, fees and scheme of examination would remain the same.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Sunday, October 26, 2008
A short list of frequently used acronyms and terms relevant to MBAs. AACSB – Stands for the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International. The AACSB is a US-based non-profit organization that evaluates and accredits universities and schools, including business schools within and outside the United States.
AMBA – Also known as the Association of MBAs, a UK-based organization that offers accredits and approves high-quality MBA programs. The AMBA generally focuses on programs in the United Kingdom, but also evaluates international programs.
“B–School” – Often-used term to refer to business schools.
EMBA – Stands for Executive MBA, business programs that are designed for students with more business experience than students typically enrolled in traditional MBA programs.
EQUIS – The European Quality Improvement System (or Equis) is an agency that accredits European business schools. It is run by the European Foundation for Management Development in Brussels, Belgium.
ETS – Educational Testing Service, a US-based non-profit organization widely known for producing standardized exams such as the GMAT and TOEFL, which are common requirements for applicants to business schools in the United States and abroad.
FAFSA – Free Application for Federal Student Aid is a form submitted by students of US universities who are seeking financial aid from the US government. The FAFSA form centers around ascertaining a student's Expected Family Contribution (EFC), a figure that determines which need-based government grants and subsidized loans a student can apply for.
FIBAA – Foundation for International Business Administration Accreditation, a private German organization that rates and accredits MBA programs in the three German-speaking countries of Europe – Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
GMAT – Acronym for the Graduate Management Admissions Test. Many business schools around the world require applicants to submit the results of the GMAT examinations as a criterion for admission to MBA programs. The test – composed of essay and multiple-choice questions – is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS).
GPA – Stands for Grade Point Average, the most common quantitative measure of overall undergraduate academic achievement.
IELTS – International English Language Testing System, a common, English-language proficiency exam. Many English-speaking universities and business schools in Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa request that non-native English speakers submit satisfactory IELTS results when applying.
TOEFL – Stands for the Test of English as a Foreign Language. The TOEFL is a standardized examination of English-language proficiency that non-native English-speaking applicants must often take before acceptance to English-speaking universities. The test is administered by the Educational Testing Service.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Online Training For AMFI
GurukulOnline Learning Solutions (GOLS) has launched online training for AMFI (Association of Mutual Funds of India) certification recently. The course is offered at an introductory price of Rs 995 and anyone with 10+2 can enroll for this course.
This course will help students to pass AMFI certification test.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has made passing of AMFI certification (Advisors module) mandatory for any entity/person engaged in marketing and selling of mutual fund products and obtain registration number from AMFI. Firms and corporates will have to obtain certification of registration from AMFI and all employees of corporate distributors engaged in selling and marketing of mutual fund products have to pass the AMFI certification test (Advisors Module) and obtain registration with AMFI before canvassing business of mutual funds.
Interested candidates can register at www.fpvarsity.com and apply for the course and pay the fees online. GurukulOnline Learning Solutions’ Fpvarsity.com offers video based training (VBT), Web based training (WBT), live virtual classrooms, mock tests, academic support, online chat, message board, apart from giving, in its virtual training.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Online Education Used for College Classes
When most people hear the words, online education, their first thought is of those adults who are seeking out new skills or training or who are looking for a degree with limited time to commit to the process. But many colleges are utilizing online education for traditional college students. There are some major benefits for both student and teacher, and these college classes are eliminating some of the negative points of online education. The major advantage for both student and teacher is the fact that much of the course work can be completed at the student's leisure within the confines of time restrictions established by the teacher. Often, online education is used in conjunction with regular class times. For example, a class that is scheduled to meet three times each week might only meet once a week or even less often. Students know ahead of time when class will physically meet and when assignments will be online only. Finding the motivation to stay on track with assignments is a major problem for many students of online education. The fact that the students are given deadlines for completing assignments help them stay caught up with the class even if they wouldn't have had the motivation to do so on their own. Because classes still meet at least occasionally, the students have an opportunity to interact with other students. Discussion boards increase the students' interaction with each other and with the teacher, allowing other students to view the threads of conversation. Online education classes are especially beneficial when the course work is related to the computer or Internet. Students are encouraged to be online more often simply to check messages from the teacher and other students, and to keep track of assignments. But online education courses are also a valuable option for other subjects as well. An online education has both real benefits and some real drawbacks, but by combining the classroom with the technology of online education, college students get the best of both worlds.
List of the 20 Best Universities and Colleges in the World:
1. Harvard University
- Country: United States
Harvard is the type of school that other universities aspire to become. It has a long-standing reputation as the best university in the world and is known for attracting talented students and faculty. Unparalleled academics and a huge endowment ensure that Harvard students have every resource they need to get a quality education.
2. University of Oxford
- Country: United Kingdom
The University of Oxford has been among the top universities in the world for more than nine centuries. The esteemed institution is at the forefront of learning, teaching and research and is a leader in many different fields. University of Oxford students represent more than a hundred and thirty nationalities.
3. Princeton University
- Country: United States
Widely considered to be one of the leading research universities, Princeton is one of the best places in the world to get an undergraduate education. It is the fourth-oldest college in the United States and has one of the best need-based financial aid programs in the country. Princeton students benefit from a wide range of academic and extracurricular resources.
4. University of Cambridge
- Country: United Kingdom
Cambridge is one of the oldest and most respected universities in the world. The university comprises 31 colleges and over 150 departments, schools and other institutions. Only the best and brightest study at Cambridge.
5. Yale University
- Country: United States
Yale University is one of the top undergraduate and graduate institutions in the United States and one of the best universities in the world. The faculty is made up of a diverse group of people who are leaders in their respective field. Yale only accepts talented or motivated applicants, ensuring that the students themselves are one of the school's biggest strengths.
6. University of Pennsylvania
- Country: United States
The University of Pennsylvania is an Ivy League institution that is best known for its outstanding Wharton School of Business. Penn has a world-class faculty and a history of innovation in interdisciplinary education. The students of Penn are a diverse group representing nearly every corner of the globe.
7. California Institute of Technology
- Country: United States
The California Institute of Technology is a world-renowned research university with a reputation for intense academics. The many generations of students and faculty have made important contributions in science and engineering fields. Cal Tech values students who are creative and intellectual.
8. Imperial College London
- Country: United Kingdom
Imperial College London is a science-based institution with a long-standing reputation as one of the best universities in Europe. The school's strengths include a range of academic activities and cutting edge research facilities. Students who attend Imperial College London hail from more than 110 countries and are considered to be some of the brightest minds in the world.
9. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Country: United States
Known as the East Coast Mecca of Engineering, MIT is a world-class educational institution. The nation's leading professors teach at MIT and include enough Nobel laureates to fill a small classroom. Students who attend this esteemed institution are some of the world's best and most creative.
10. University of Chicago
- Country: United States
Known as one of the world's greatest intellectual communities, the University of Chicago has had a legendary impact on American higher education. Their program is frequently copied by other colleges and universities. Professors at the University of Chicago are among the best in the world and students frequently go on to become leaders in their respective fields.
11. University of Tokyo
- Country: Japan
The University of Tokyo is one of the world's leading research universities. It has maintained a reputation for excellence for nearly 150 years and is well known for its rich and varied academic environment. Students who attend the University of Tokyo frequently go on to become leaders in government, business and research.
12. Duke University
- Country: United States
Duke University holds a top ten place in the United States and easily ranks among the best universities in the world. The private research institution is a mix of innovation and tradition and is well-known for its unparalleled academic excellence in the South. Duke students come from all over the globe and represent a variety of different backgrounds.
13. University of Hong Kong
- Country: China
The University of Hong Kong is the oldest and most respected tertiary institution in Hong Kong. The school recruits nearly 50 percent of their faculty from overseas and hosts the best and brightest students in Hong Kong.
14. University of California, Berkeley
- Country: United States
UC Berkeley is one of the top public institutions in the world. The school's academic programs are internationally recognized. The diverse student body attends 14 colleges and schools that are split into 130 academic departments and more than 80 interdisciplinary research units.
15. Columbia University
- Country: United States
Columbia University is among the top academic institutions in the nation. The school has cutting-edge research facilities and a reputation for being one of the world's most important research centers. Columbia students have conducted groundbreaking research in the arts, science, medicine and the humanities.
16. ETH Zurich
- Country: Switzerland
ETH Zurich, also known as the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, is an internationally oriented science and technology university that is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world. The school hosts students from more than 80 nations and is associated with 21 Nobel laureates.
17. Cornell University
- Country: United States
Cornell University's undergraduate colleges, graduate school and professional-degree schools offer more than 70 undergraduate majors and 93 graduate fields of study. Cornell students are a diverse group of people who benefit from the university's strong academic programs and varied resources.
18. Dartmouth College
- Country: United States
Dartmouth College is a premier Ivy League institution at the forefront of higher education. The elite school is known for its first-rate undergraduate, graduate and professional programs. Dartmouth admits applicants from all over the globe, but chooses only the most promising students.
19. University of British Columbia
- Country: Canada
The University of British Columbia is a research and advanced learning institution with an international reputation for excellence. UBC's campus is one of the most spectacular in the world and provides both students and faculty with unbeatable resources.
20. Australian National University
- Country: Australia
The Australian National University is consistently ranked among the top universities in Australia and is widely considered to be among the best public research universities in the world. The ANU campus has over 200 buildings and a high ratio of faculty to students.
Introducation
YQWorld - stands for Youth Quotient of the World. Young people are vibrant and unique personalities, and each has his or her own world to define.
Questions that often plague youngsters who have just finished school are universal. What should I do in life? What career path should I choose? What do I have an aptitude for? What kind of personality do I have? What’s the highest position in the corporate world that I could achieve? Can I pursue a career in something I love? What kind of future would that hold for me? What are my options?
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