Make The Most Of The University Rush

PRLog (Press Release) - May 11, 2009 -
University has always been a wonderful opportunity; not only the chance to give education the perfect finish, but the chance to widen perspectives and make new friends. This, and the increasingly difficult job market, may be why there have been an unprecedented increase in the number of applications this year, 34,000 to be precise, bringing the total applications for the year 2009/10 to a staggering 465,000*. Unfortunate then, that this comes just as the government has decided to cap university places by 5,000*. There is, however, no need to despair; the recession may have its iron grip on university entry but there are plenty of other options out there.

Gordon Mathie, managing director, i-to-i explains, “Gap years have long been viewed as the expected prelude to university but they are fast becoming a popular alternative too. Travelling offers not only the chance to broaden cultural horizons and see some of the world’s most beautiful sights but also to learn life skills such as communication, negotiation and personal skill development. There aren’t many university courses that will teach students how to survive on the back of a bike in India or what its like to feed lion cubs in South Africa, travel can open up whole world of new and exciting experiences and help people see the broader picture. Setting off on into the great beyond for a healthy dose of adventure could even be just what the doctor ordered for many students needing a break from their books.”

Mathie adds, “The skills learnt whilst travelling will enhance a curriculum vitae and in turn improve chances of employment, a wise move in the current climate. Even earlier down the education chain, doing something different like volunteering with companies such as i-to-i can provide an impressive array of skills and experiences that won’t do university applications any harm either; applicants who can show that they’ve been out there and done something different will have the extra edge to make them stand out.

There are also plenty of options for applicants who haven’t got quite enough cash to traverse the globe just yet. Teaching English while overseas is a great way to earn money and travel at the same time, it’s also a fantastic opportunity to get teaching experience. All a traveller will need is a TEFL (Teaching English as Foreign Language) qualification from a reputable company such as i-to-i. Courses can be completed in as little as one weekend and are open to all fluent English speakers. Qualified teachers will be able to work anywhere in the world and can choose to use their teaching skills as the means to travel extensively or as part of a new career.

Whatever the future is for youngsters who loose out on a place at university it certainly doesn’t need to be bleak!

* Figures sourced from http://www.thebadgeronline.co.uk/news/recession-triggers-...

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