Student Housing – Choose wisely, don’t take a chance

Student Housing

Student Housing – Choose wisely, don’t take a chance

So, you are finally set for higher education in the country and college of your choice. Exciting times, aren’t they? New sights, sounds, people, culture, lifestyle and living. And of course, the prospect of an international career!

Let’s ensure that the excitement isn’t watered down by poor / misinformed choice in selecting student housing.

Here are some important things to bear in mind before making housing selection. You have to live there for many months after all.

Types of Student Housing

On Campus Accommodation

Perhaps one of the cheapest and most sought-after student housing options, on campus accommodation is usually preferred by first-year students who want to get acquainted to the university, locality, country. Although there is little flexibility in choosing the type of room, on campus accommodation can be a great way to meet, greet and live with people across cultures, closer to the university.

Purpose-Build Student Accommodation (PBSA)

Large living complexes built specifically to house the students, PBSAs are quite popular among international students who want to live among other students. They are highly preferred for their facilities such as game-rooms, cultural centre, library, gyms, etc.

PBSAs are also in high-demand, hence, the bookings are usually open only for a short period.

Private / Rented Homestays

As per estimates by leading student housing companies, more than 70% international students opt for rented homestays. Indian students immigrating for higher education specifically in U.K., Ireland, Canada, and U.S. prefer to live in a rented home.

Flexibility of choice, personal space, living closer to preferred community are some of the reasons for their preference. If you also favour opting a private residence, then you must consider all aspects mentioned below before making an informed decision.

Types of Room

Whatever type of housing you choose, confirm the type of room you are selecting. Usually there are three options: Shared room, private room and studio apartment.

Confirm with the university / home owner about the room type – you may request a picture and details of utilities before you get to the next stage of reservation.

Location

You must double and triple check to confirm the access to public and private transport from your housing location to campus. Also, figure out how near or far you’d be from town centre, places of interest, community centres, etc. Lastly, use social medias to figure out the safety quotient of the location.

Budget

You may want to live like a queen / king, but can you afford it. Your parents would have drawn a budget for your housing & living expenses; you’d have to source and finalize a space within that budget.

Start early, find the housing options online from the likes of Amber. Share the choices with your parents. Consider every expense head over & above rent, and understand the contract clauses with absolute clarity.

Contract Clarity

What is the duration of contract? Is the rent refundable; and how much of it has to be paid as advance? Is the place furnished? Are the costs of furniture / plumbing / utility repairs covered? Who to contact in case of emergency if the home owner is not available? Can you terminate the contract mid-way; if yes, then what would be the refund policy?

These are some of the many questions that you ought to take into account before signing the contract.

Advance Information

Once you have finalized, selected and paid for your choice of housing option, inform the relevant person/s about your arrival well in advance. There have been instances whereby students had to Air BnB for a few days because they ‘forgot’ to intimate the home owner before arriving!

Finally, a word of advice – you are immigrating to pursue academic excellence, and not for an extended staycation. Choose wisely, live healthy and fulfil your ambitions.

The perks & perils of social media

Perks And Perils Of Social Medias1

The perks & perils of social media

A lot has already been covered about this burning topic. With newer challenges emerging, a lot more needs to be covered, understood and put to practice. Social medias, especially for the younger generation, and more so for bright students with academic pursuits in top international study destinations, could be both – bane and a boon.

No; this will not be session of grandfatherly sermons, but rather matter-of-fact observations about the good and bad the Instagrams, Facebooks and YouTubes of the world.

Access

Undoubtedly, the internet is a wonderful place. It’s an inexhaustible resource of information and knowledge. On almost anything and everything. A couple of smart searches and voila; what you seek appears in front of you.

Social media is no different – there are posts, reels, videos, blogs, stories on almost every topic. It can be put to good use as a research tool for those who are perhaps pursuing let’s say; MBA from a renowned college in U.K., STEM programs in the U.S. or students pursuing ICT in Ireland.

Convenience

We are sure you know that now even WhatsApp has banking features; so do many other social media platforms. Paying utility bills, making reservation at a restaurant, booking a movie show or tickets for a music festival – convenience offered by social medias is second to none.

A word of caution – Use banking and / or payment functions only through trusted platforms.

Connection

Staying away from family for long periods could be an emotional downer. Thanks to the social media though, friends and family get to check your reels and posts, go on a live video call, share experiences. This is one of the biggest perks of digital age – no distance is now long enough.

Engagement

Another positive aspect of digital apps and tools is engaging oneself in causes – from fundraising to social awareness and everything else in between. A student who may have completed Masters Program in France for example, can donate his / her books as he / she pursues Doctorate. He / she can also seek advise on pooling funds for PhD.

Voices can be raised for saving polar bears and red pandas. Online petitions can be signed to compel authorities to look into child abuse. Just get on your fav social media platform!

Opportunities

The digital age has given a humongous rise to remote education and employment opportunities. Who would have thought that Study-Work-From-Home during COVID and post-COVID era would transform education and professional equations and experiences?

Social media was the saviour during those lockdown days!

Addiction

Every time you see notifications of your post – likes, shares, comments – your brain releases dopamine, the feel-good chemical associated with reward. You are trapped into believing that getting even more notifications would be even more rewarding.

A harmless post soon becomes habit, a habit turns into compulsive behaviour. You are trapped!

Self-image

The flip side can also be true. Not getting enough likes and ‘good’ comments on a picture or a video, could be discouraging and lead to negative self-image. Selfie-holics are more vulnerable to this, as many of them link self-worth to their physical appearance.

Social media then becomes a tool for promoting and perpetuating this sort of negative behaviour among others. Sad.

FOMO

Fear-on-missing-out! No, it is not something that this writer has conjured up from thin air – FOMO is very real, and it affects young and the not-so-young alike.

Checking Instagram and Facebook every few minutes in a desperation to confirm if you’ve missed out on some posts, or likes and comments is a worrying condition that has spread fast like COVID. And there seems to be no cure for this either, except self-restraint.

Cyberbullying

It is probably the worst outcome of irresponsible social media use. In many instances, cyberbullying has led to suicides.

Online bullies believe they can get away with anything heinous – and they usually do. While it is deplorable, nothing can be done about such idiots; although ignoring them would be the wisest thing to do.

It is true that digital age has transformed the way we live and interact with others. There would be more similar transformations in times to come. How we put these digital tools to use would be totally upon us.

Game on, but hey… For how long?

Gamer

Game on, but hey… For how long?

The craze of video-mobile gaming continues to reach new heights. With introduction of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (MR), world’s favourite pastime is now more immersive and realistic than ever.

It wouldn’t be out of place to mention that the gaming industry will cross 4 billion dollars in a couple of years! Younger population contributes nearly two-thirds to this extraordinary number.

That brings us to a pressing question – one that is often posed by worrying parents of young students: Will my child go dumb and dull playing video games? Will gaming affect his / her academic and career pursuits?

These are reasonable concerns. Let’s try to address them objectively.

Gaming is not all gloom and doom. There are obvious benefits, such as:

  1. Enhancement of cognitive functions
  2. Improved hand-eye coordination
  3. Use of logic and problem-solving skills
  4. Prompt decision-making
  5. Understanding benefits of teamwork
  6. An eye-for-detail

The flip side of gaming is also real; it could be disadvantageous too. Here’s how:

  1. Addiction to gaming
  2. Lack of dedicated focus and concentration
  3. Gambling issues
  4. Elevated aggression
  5. Replacing real-world issues
  6. Mental and physical health issues

These benefits or disadvantages are not sacrosanct to every gamer. Gaming, like almost every other pastime, is about taking some time out to do something different.

Moreover, it is often misunderstood that gaming – as a thumb rule – will spoil students. It couldn’t be farther from the truth. A student pursuing higher education – Masters, PhD, etc. – in a top international college can be both – an avid gamer and an academic genius.

‘Rationing’ the time for gaming is probably a solid middle ground. To know when its enough and when to stop could be a solution to the address the drawbacks of gaming.

Some may argue that the disadvantages of gaming far outweigh the benefits. They may be right. But eventually, it all boils down to this – whether an activity becomes an addiction, or not. And that is true for any activity – gaming should not be made a scapegoat.

So, game on to refresh your mind. Then get back to the real world.

LOL is the best medicine. But how?

Lol Is The Best Medicine. But How 2

LOL is the best medicine. But how?

Have you ever laughed so much that it hurt your stomach? Have you ever rolled in tears bursting in incessant laughter? Then you’d know the answer.

But its worth mentioning why laugher is really the best medicine, in short-term and long-term.

Read on…

Short-term benefits

A hearty laugh is a sure way to lessen the mental load, called stress. And this is not the only short- term benefit of tickling your funny bone.

  • Laughter causes stimulation of heart, lungs and muscles. Yes, you read that right. It also enhances intake of oxygen-rich air and helps your brain release endorphin – the natural feel-good, painkiller hormone.
  • Bouts of laughter is the best way to fire up the stress response system, which eventually cools down and balances itself in effect. The heart rate first increases when you are rollicking in laughter, then lowers down when you are welled-up laughing. The blood pressure also lowers, resulting in a relaxed feeling.

If you are an international student, away from family and home, figure out a way to indulge in this activity to reduce the stress and to refrain from feeling homesick.

Long-term benefits

You may already know about the demanding nature of a high-flying and high-growth career that you’d pursue after completing your graduation or masters. Investing in your health – through laughter – could help you sail you through some of those challenging times.

  • Laughter is directly responsible for positivity – in thoughts and action. Frequent boisterous laughing leads to positive thoughts, which in turn releases neuropeptides that fight stress and other potential serious illnesses. The best medical insurance, no?
  • Everybody wants to be in a good mood. Laughter does exactly that as it melts away stress and depression while keeping negative thoughts at bay. It also enhances self- satisfaction, making easier to connect and network with people.

Worried about paying student loan or have to deal with a difficult student accommodation? Or a gazillion other things that you are stressed about? Then make LOL your top priority. It may not take away the madness of practical life, but will make you capable to positively deal with it.

P.S. – We couldn’t resist it 😊

Knock Knock

“Who’s there”

“Cow Says”

“Cow Says who?”

“No, Cow Says Mooooh”

Essential etiquettes to follow when studying & living abroad

Essential Etiquettes To Follow When Studying Living Abroad

Essential etiquettes to follow when studying & living abroad

Respecting and observing socio-cultural etiquettes goes a long way in making lasting relationships when studying abroad. It not only helps build rapport with the locals, but also keeps you at arm’s length from unpleasant situations.

Here is a list of important tips to keep handy when studying in some of the top international study abroad countries:

Do’s & Don’ts while studying in Canada

  • Small talk with a smile often triggers a deeper conversation with Canadians. Initiating a chat about weather could lead to a hearty discussion.
  • Keeping an eye contact shows that you are genuinely interested in talking. While this is a universal aspect, it hits home even more so with the Canadians.
  • Waving is a cool way to greet a Canadian.
  • If you have to choose a gift, select something from your own culture. Canadians appreciate the thoughtfulness and a personal touch.
  • Be careful while choosing and gifting flowers – white lilies can be associated with funerals and red roses could be seen as a romantic gesture.
  • Canadians, in general, do not appreciate the comparison between Canada & U.S., and vice versa. Avoid it at all costs.
  • Similarly, do not indulge in conversation about conflicts between French and English Canada.
  • It would be rude to talk in your native language amongst local Canadians who do not understand the language.
  • Shouting and talking loudly is also a big no.

Do’s & Don’ts while studying in the U.S.

  • Be open, frank and forthcoming about yourself when you can. Americans appreciate people who can hold their own and speak their mind.
  • Avoid speaking about divisive issues – unless you know the ins and outs – with new acquaintances. Americans are quite passionate and vocal about issues like abortion, gun control, civil rights, etc.
  • Do not be openly critical about either America or your own country. Patriotism is a big thing in America.
  • Engage in meaningful debates, and offer a clear perspective about the You’ll besurprised the respect and reception you’ll receive afterwards.
  • Likewise, classroom discussion and participation are highly encouraged and may contribute to overall grade – this may depend from one university to the other.
  • When invited for lunch or dinner, expect a particular dish to be passed around the. If you do not want something, instead of saying no, just pass it to the next person.
  • Avoid making eye contact with strangers in public transport.

Do’s & Don’ts while studying in Germany

  • Germans are quite adherent and strict about their rules, be it in education or in day-to- day life. Not obeying them could attract trouble. Violating traffic rules, jaywalking, making noise on Sundays, poking your tongue out in the public, etc. are some of the things you may not want to do.
  • Want to be in good books of the Germans? Just be punctual, it is a biiiig thing in Germany.
  • Contrary to popular perception, Germans are quite They may take time to get to know you, but over time you will see that they are open, frank and honest. Germans believe in ‘once a friend, always a friend’.
  • Wohngemeinschaft or WG apartment / accommodation sharing is one of the most popular choices of international students. Equally popular are WG parties – participate in them. It is a great way to make new friends, learn from them and even get help in your studies.
  • Under no circumstances, show a Nazi salute, or display any Nazi symbols. It is offensive and illegal.
  • Exceeding your permitted part-time working hours will surely get you banned in Germany.
  • Like you’d do in India, remove your footwear before entering a German home.
  • Bought a bottle of water? Don’t bin Instead, return it and claim the extra 25 cents that you are required to pay while purchasing. Germans are pro-recycling.

Do’s & Don’ts while studying in France

  • Learn some basic French phrases and greetings. It will get you through smoothly with the locals.
  • Are you a breakfast person? Then you better learn some recipes before immigrating to France. The French aren’t too gung-ho about first meal of the day. You would only find pastries, croissants, brioche and the like – which is too sweet for the Indian breakfast palate.
  • Over speaking and speaking loudly over others is considered rude. Avoid it when mingling with locals.
  • Apply for CAF application as soon as you can. Its government allocated fund for student accommodation. It will really help you manage your living expenses.
  • Students get discount for visit to museums, public places and Your college / university would provide you a student card, and it would be a mistake to not make good use of it.
  • You will have to pay a nominal charge for using washrooms in public places. Carry change.
  • Do not touch any item or produce at an outdoor market. You can point at what you want and enquire about it.

Do’s & Don’ts while studying in Ireland

  • Be prepared for a barrage of slangs while speaking to an Irish. While they speak in English, most Irish have an accent and use many slangs in their speech. Learning about the most common ones can get the conversation easy and fun.
  • Weather can be unpredictable in Ireland. Carrying an umbrella can be quite handy. Also, wearing comfy shoes while exploring outdoors is yet another tip you’ll want to remember.
  • Want to understand more about Irish people? Visiting a local pub or restaurant is perhaps one of the better ways to do it.
  • Remember to press the red button when your stop is arriving when traveling in a public transport bus. Assuming that it’ll stop at the upcoming bus stop would be a mistake.
  • Do not ask about fairies and leprechauns. While the history of Ireland is filled with magical creatures, the Irish do not particularly like talking about their folklore with strangers.

Do’s & Don’ts while studying in the U.K.

  • The British like their personal They may not like someone, especially strangers, standing closer than an arm’s length.
  • Staring is considered rude, and may turn into a verbal spat. Avoid at all cost.
  • Handshake is a sign of affirmation and acknowledgement. Shake hands with everyone you may come across in a social setting, even children. But ensure that the handshake is light and not firm.
  • When socializing in a restaurant, summon the waiter by raising your hand. Making sounds, yelling, waving is considered improper.
  • When you are invited for a lunch / dinner, wait for your host to begin.
  • Brits live by their mannerism. Jumping the queue will inevitably be frowned upon and could also land you in trouble.

Do’s & Don’ts while studying in Australia

  • Australians are mostly informal and jovial people. Do not get offended by their jokes. In fact, jokes on self could be a quick way to get familiar with them, as they see it as a sign of self-confidence.
  • Chipping-in, in situations that allow for it, is highly appreciated. Share the cost of fuel, for example, when you are on a long drive with your Australian mates.
  • Be respectful of Australian wildlife, landscape and natural environment. Conservation of their nation’s ecology is a matter of pride for Australians.
  • Do not pass the buck – passing a task given to you / meant for you to others is frowned upon.
  • Being argumentative and combative may not help you in the long run in Australia.
  • Avoid talking about sensitive topics such as refugees, indigenous affairs, etc.
  • Be relaxed and enjoy yourself in a casual setting. Australians easily bond with an easy- going person.

Do’s & Don’ts while studying in New Zealand

  • Do not try to bribe or get your way by offering money. The Kiwis totally disapprove such behaviour and it can also land you in legal trouble.
  • Buying a local product / item could earn you appreciation by the locals. They prefer to support their own economy and are conscious about large amounts of imported goods that they have to depend upon.
  • Not sure of something? Ask a New Zealander – he / she may even go out of the way to help you.
  • The Kiwis are much like the Australians when it comes to being boisterous. Do not get offended by their casual jokes.
  • Excessive flattery or compliments could prove to be counter-productive with the Kiwis.
  • Do not be boastful, even if you have the practical right to be. It will neither win you friends nor any ears.

These are some of the most common and general etiquettes that you’d be expected to follow in respective countries. Make sure that you thoroughly understand the country, its people and culture you have chosen for higher education.

Good luck fellas.

Academic excellence through hobbies, music and arts

Academic Excellence Through Hobbies Music And Arts

Academic excellence through hobbies, music and arts

Oh yes, you read the headline right; and no, the writer wasn’t high while forming it.

You must have heard the old saying: ‘All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy’. It’s the same with studies.

What IS studying? Absorbing knowledge and information of a specific specialty / subject.

You may have taken up STEM program in the U.S., pursuing MBA or economics in the U.K., mastering ICT in Ireland, or may be learning arts in France. Or some other course in some other country. Point is, you are in pursuit of new ‘learnings or studies’.

In order to enhance internalization of the information and knowledge – basically, your studies – creating space in your mind is really, really important.

So how does it work? And what role does art and hobbies play?

You may already know that there are more neurons in human brain than all stars and planets put together in every known galaxy. You may also know that humans use only 7% of their brain. The challenge is how to enhance its capacity and how to retain what one learns, permanently in memory.

Of course, one can’t remember everything, and hence, learning has to be ‘internalized’.

What are you fond of? Gardening, paper craft, playing with pets, writing songs, listening to music, cooking, going for walks? (No, scrolling endlessly on social media pages does not count).

What are your hobbies / passions? Indulge in them. Especially when you are studying / pursuing academics.

It is now scientifically proven by leading neurologists and behavioral scientists that doing something what one is deeply passionate about eventually enhances core subject learning.

There are no ‘thoughts’ – active or passive – when one is deeply engrossed in hobby-pursuit. This thoughtless state of ‘being in the moment’ helps the mind to rearrange other information, internalize and prioritize it.

Do you recollect those moments of pure joy and relaxation after you did something you really loved? Voila. That’s you coming out of a thoughtless state, feeling all light and rejuvenated.

Mind you, whiling the time away in guise of pursuing hobbies is not what we are recommending. Rather, we would love to see you ace in your academic pursuits as you study in one of the top international destinations.

And therefore, we suggest – be responsible, pursue your passion, enhance your learning.

Your reviews matter. Share them generously, and responsibly

Your Reviews Matter. Share Them Generously And Responsibly

Your reviews matter. Share them generously, and responsibly

Liked. Disliked. Hated it. 5-star rating, no-star rating. Pleasant behaviour, obnoxious demeanour.

Your honest reviews matter, a lot – to the ones you are reviewing, and the ones you are leaving a review for – the next consumer.

Let’s admit it, most of us go through the review thread of the service / product / brand before purchasing online or visiting the place physically. Well, we read reviews about Ola / Uber driver also before confirming the cab pick-up, don’t we?

These reviews come in handy even more so for people / students living or studying abroad. It’san unknown place and any information can help.

Credibility

Most reviews are an experience of the person / service / brand. It’s a social proof of a good or bad service / product expectation. Would you choose to order from a restaurant, buy a brand of clothes or gadget, avail of personal care service that has 2-star rating? That’s how important and influential reviews are – a top-reason why you should never forget to rate someone / something.

Value for money

You may have liked the sunglasses – for example – bought from an online store. After using it for few weeks or so, did you find it worth your money? Yes? Great – go gung-ho and let everyone know the reason why. Don’t mince your words if it is cool but not worth.

Online reviews are important to keep brands and services honest. They must know, and be reminded time and again, that consumers cannot be taken for granted. They can make them, and break them!

Safety

Any service that requires a personali’ish contact, such as cabs, personal care, home care, paramedical care, courier, etc. must always be reviewed. This is one sure way of keeping the creeps away and to look after the safety of women, children and elderlies.

As a parting note, let’s remember that review is a personal experience, an honest opinion. Using our bias or prejudice on social medias to harm or attack someone’s credibility is not just stupid, but also could be harmful in the long term. And it’s called ‘bullying’.

Top-ranked universities from top international study destinations

Top Ranked Universities From Top International Study Destinations

Top-ranked universities from top international study destinations

Hey guys and girls.

About to finish primary college and excited about immigrating to top international study destinations for higher education? Curious about global top-ranked universities? Cool.

Of course, you would have or will do your own research. Here’s a list of those top global universities that we thought could help you kick start your findings.

Top universities for abroad study in U.S.A.:

University
QS World University Ranking
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
1
Stanford University
3
Harvard University
5
University of Pennsylvania
13
Princeton University
16
Yale University
18
Columbia University
22
University of California, Berkley
27
New York University
39
University of California, Los Angeles
44

Top universities for abroad study in Canada:

University
QS World University Ranking
University of Toronto
26
McGill University
27*
University of British Columbia
46
Université de Montréal
111
University of Alberta
126
McMaster University
140
University of Waterloo
149*
Western University
170
University of Ottawa
230
University of Calgary
235

*Jointly ranked university

Top universities for abroad study in U.K.:

University
QS World University Ranking
University of Oxford
4
University of Cambridge
7
University College of London
8
Imperial College London
9
University of Edinburgh
20
University of Manchester
27
King’s College London
33*
London School of Economics and Political Science
44*
University of Bristol
49
University of Warwick
62

*Jointly ranked universities

Top colleges / universities for abroad study in France:

University
QS World University Ranking
Université PSL (Paris Sciences & Lettres)
52
Ecole Polytechnique
68
Sorbonne University
83
CentraleSupélec
138
Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon
161
Ecole des Ponts ParisTech
242*
Sciences Po Paris
242*
Université de Paris
275*
Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne
287*
ENS Paris-Saclay
291*

*Jointly ranked universities

Top universities for abroad study in Germany:

University
QS World University Ranking
Technische Universität München
50
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
63
Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg
64
Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin
117
Freie Universität Berlin
130
KIT, Karlsruher Institut für Technologie
131
Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen
145
Technische Universität Berlin
148
Technische Universität Dresden
173*
Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen Universität Freiburg
175*

*Jointly ranked universities

Top universities for abroad study in Ireland:

University
QS World University Ranking
Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin
98
University College Dublin
181*
National University of Ireland Galway
270*
University College Cork
303
Dublin City University
471
University of Limerick
531-540
Maynooth University
801-1000
Technological University Dublin
801-1000*

*Jointly ranked universities

Top universities for abroad study in Australia:

University
QS World University Ranking
Australian National University
31
University of Sydney
40
University of Melbourne
41
University of New South Wales
44*
University of Queensland
46
Monash University
55
University of Western Australia
92
University of Adelaide
106
University of Technology Sydney
133
University of Wollongong
196

*Jointly ranked university

Top universities for abroad study in New Zealand:

University
QS World University Ranking
The University of Auckland
81
University of Otago
184
Victoria University of Wellington
223
University of Canterbury
270
Massrey University
272
University of Waikato
375
Lincoln University
387
Auckland University of Technology
437

Source: QS Top Universities – www.topuniversities.com

Do you have other colleges / universities in mind? Have you shortlisted them? Need help in selection based on your academic & career aspirations and financial standings?

You can connect with us on +91 9082673430, i@eleevateoverseas.com or visit for a free counselling. We will be happy to help

Good luck fellas.

Employment or entrepreneurship? Tough choice?

Employment Or Entrepreneurship Tough Choice

Employment or entrepreneurship? Tough choice?

It need not be. Rather, it is not. Both have its benefits. And some risks.

The right questions for an aspiring student who has aced in academics perhaps would be: what are my ambitions, can I invest efforts that’d do justice to those ambitions, do I prefer job security or like taking calculated risks, or both, what is the exit strategy?

The aforementioned query can lead to a more informed decision, especially for students who have completed or are on the verge of completing their higher education, particularly from top international study destinations.

Let’s dissect this further to figure out which path may work better in long term.

Rights & Responsibilities.

As an entrepreneur you will have the final word in decision making. But you will also be liable for the outcome. As an employee, you’d be expected to do your best and follow the protocol and process set by your head/s of department. The result, in spite of your performance, would not be your responsibility.

Security

If a regular paycheck is your thing, then an employed career in chosen specialty would suit you best. More so if you are stressed about paying student loans. But if you think you have a business idea, or can take the helms of your family business, and have the appetite for waiting it out then you are cut out for entrepreneurship.

Mind you, as an entrepreneur, you could be enjoying the profits as well as bearing the losses.

Flexibility & Control

Evidently, entrepreneurs may initially not enjoy the work-life balance. Obviously, more efforts – time, money, mindspace – have to be invested to reach a point of growth where things could go on auto-mode. But this also means that they have the flexibility of working hours.

They can take a nap or take a break when they choose to. They are also in control of decision- making, deploying techniques and technology, ideas, etc.

While employees would enjoy the work-life balance (except during those days of work-load), they usually do not have flexibility of working hours. It may be different if they have availed of post-study work opportunities in countries such as U.S., U.K., Australia, Canada, Ireland, etc. where companies offer flexible modes of work.

But they would not have any privilege of decision-making, and would have to follow ideas or procedures even if they are disliked.

Growth opportunities

Static (more or less) for the employees. Of course, there would be annual performance-based promotions and a scope to enroll in professional development programs (varies from one company to another). However, it’s a tall ladder and growth would come – more often than not– one step, one year at a time.

For entrepreneurs, on the other hand, even sky is not the limit. One only has to look at Elon, Jeff and the likes. They came from nothing and now command tremendous equity – personal and professional.

Conclusion

Review your orientations, personality, financial standing and risk-taking appetite. Have an open mind. As a fresh graduate or post-graduate from globally ranked reputed universities – German, French, Kiwi, or any other – you may choose to first start in a traditional employment set up and see how it fares. That career could lead you to entrepreneurship.

Or if you have started as an entrepreneur immediately after studying abroad, and find yourself in a tough spot few years later, you can always switch to a more stable employed career option.

Whatever you choose, give your one hundred percent.

DIY life hacks for Jills and Jacks

Diy Life Hacks For Jills And Jacks

DIY life hacks for Jills and Jacks

What’s up lads and lassies, daddies and mommies. Fancy getting your hands dirty? Figuratively and literally? It could be immensely satisfying, you know.

As Indians, we are culturally and habitually inclined to call the ‘expert’ of a craft / service / utility when needed. Of course, it makes sense and they are required in many instances. But not all.

Call the plumber for a leaking faucet. Door knob acting like a noob – carpenter is on the way. Patchy wall requires a fresh life, here comes the painter. Kids’ room needs a makeover, pay a handsome fee to interior designer. Why?

Some minor work, such as the ones listed above, can be easily done by… our very two hands. It better be if you are an international student, studying and living in U.K., U.S., Canada, Ireland, Australia.

Do you know that cost of utility services such as plumbing, carpentry, small repair work is more expensive in these countries than the utility object? A minor plumbing and / or hammering of a few nails could easily devour up to a third of your monthly student accommodation cost. No, we are not kidding.

Head on to YouTube. You’d find many savvy utility experts showing you how to fix the plumbing or door knob or such.

To the moms and dads whose wards are off to top overseas education destination in pursuit of academic excellence, it is the perfect time to plan a surprise transformation of your child’s room. There are plenty of crafty artists and architects on social medias, sharing a range of innovative ideas for such makeovers.

Add your own magical touch to it, draw out the cute tee-shirt or sock from your child’s kindergarten days and frame it on the wall. Why would you want to spend a few thousands for someone to bring your idea to life?

Saving a few dollars / pounds / euros / rupees is the obvious benefit of such indulgence. Knowing that you can fix / repair / remodel, a talent you never explored or did not get a chance to, is a satisfaction like no other.

Creating or reviving something is a special feeling after all, isn’t it?