An Investment in the Future
As students in the UAE approach their sophomore year, a significant number of parents begin investing heavily in their children’s future education. This trend is particularly prominent among those aspiring to study in Western countries, especially the UK, Canada, and the US. The pursuit of admission to prestigious institutions, including Ivy League universities, prompts parents to seek professional guidance and mentoring services well in advance.
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Early Planning and Guidance
Parents like Poonam Chhotelal, who started consulting firms towards the end of their child’s Grade 10, realize the importance of early planning. Poonam notes, “These institutes help in the application process of colleges and also make a student understand what subjects they need to choose in their later years. It is good for a student to have this focus right from Grade 9.”
Institutes such as Hale offer personalized counselling based on the subjects a student has chosen and conduct psychometric tests to assess their skill sets, identifying courses that align with their strengths. This comprehensive approach ensures that students are well-prepared for their future academic endeavors.
The Cost of Quality Education Consultancy
The financial investment in professional education consultancy is substantial, with some families spending up to Dh250,000 on profile-building and mentorship programs. Starting early, from Grade 9, is often more cost-effective as expenses are distributed over several years. For instance, planning for 12 universities in the US might cost around Dh40,000 in Grade 9, Dh42,000 in Grade 10, and Dh45,000 to Dh46,000 in Grade 11. Additionally, each university’s admission form can cost $500.
Aanya Rajput, who started consulting towards the end of Grade 10, participates in twice-weekly sessions that alternate between in-person and Zoom meetings, each lasting 45 to 50 minutes. Her mother, Poonam, emphasizes the importance of spreading out these costs and starting early to better identify a student’s niche and strengths.
Comprehensive Support and Guidance
Education consultants provide more than just application assistance. They advise on choosing extracurricular activities (ECAs), internships, summer programs, and important associations to join. These activities are crucial in enhancing a student’s portfolio. Summer programs, in particular, are carefully selected to ensure they add significant value to the student’s profile.
Poonam explains, “Some of the counsellors have worked in those universities and have a network there. In fact, my daughter is being motivated by her counsellor to go for a change of subjects based on her skills.” This personalized approach helps students make informed decisions about their education and career paths.
The Importance of University Visits
Education consultants also recommend that parents and students visit universities if possible. Poonam and her family are planning a university visit this summer. She believes that such visits help in understanding the college’s functioning, healthcare systems, and safety aspects, providing valuable insights into the student’s future environment.
Overcoming Challenges in Personalized Guidance
Jacob George, an Indian-Turkmenistan expat in the UAE and a current Aerospace Engineering major at UC Berkeley, highlights the challenges of obtaining personalized advice for US applications while studying at a British curriculum school. His experience underscores the need for specialized consultants who can provide tailored advice and support throughout the application process.
Conclusion
The trend of investing in professional education consultants is growing in the UAE as parents and students recognize the value of early planning and personalized guidance. With substantial financial investments, families aim to secure admissions to prestigious universities and ensure their children’s academic and career success. As the demand for higher education consultancy services continues to rise, it is clear that these investments are seen as crucial steps in shaping a bright future for the next generation.
