Ways To Build A Strong Profile To Study Abroad

With a growing number of colleges weighing many criteria to look for students who will enrich their culture and fit in at the same time, it’s always good to add different accolades and activities to your profile to make yourself stand out against the rest. Here are a few things you can add to your profile that may help you stand out from the rest:   

1. Initiative  

As a student who wants to study abroad, you have the liberty to take on a lot of different projects that show initiative. This may be systems change you orchestrated in school, for example – booking appointments directly with the principal for those who need it, instead of having to go through many people to meet the school head. You could have spearheaded a movement to make your campus greener with a plant drive or anti-plastic drive. There are tons of things, and no initiative is too small. What’s important is to remember that it shows how proactive and considerate of others’ problems you are.   

2. Academics  

Needless to say, international universities will be attracted to a student with higher grades, especially those students who want to study abroad. This doesn’t mean that everyone has to be in the top 5% of their class or colleges won’t look at you – it just means that putting in your best, is what matters. Grades don’t define you. Your outlook and hard work do. Give it your best shot, and let your essays and personality speak for themselves.   

3. Leadership Roles

Student leadership roles speak volumes of the person who held them. They show initiative, responsibility, and dutiful behavior. Remember to understand from your experience what worked and what didn’t. Many a time, we learn more from the things that went wrong than those which worked out perfectly. Your ability to inspire change, help others, be better and help improve systems and processes is sure to set you apart and make you stand out!  

4. Internships

Internships of any kind – will help you gain an edge not only for university but also for your future career. Exploring different fields, cultures and functions is a great way to show passion and exploration – along with initiative and the willingness to step outside your comfort zone. This will also help you get real-life experience in the fields you are interested in, and assist you in understanding what you want to do, and how you work. You can pick up on workplace manners, industry lingo, and start building your professional network.  

 5. Entrepreneurial Ventures  

Your love for business, community, or the fire to solve a problem – these are only a few ways people will view your entrepreneurial ventures. Starting something new, whatever that may be is daunting. The courage to overcome the fear of ‘starting’, navigating your way through dealing with suppliers and clients, marketing your business, maintaining accounts, etc.- are the only surface level. The best part is that whether you succeed or not, this experience will teach you so much. Admissions officers will see this as passion, like self-confidence, self-belief, and self-faith. Failure is a great teacher, and experiences are what you make of it. So, go try selling your art, or monetize your parents’ passion for gardening. The world is your oyster – and this is true for all, but more so if you want to study abroad!  

6. Social Media Presence 

Social media – the growing and booming industry that sees new creators every day – and provides audiences for almost everyone who can persevere in the environment. Your social media presence – regardless of industry or field, will show initiative and passion. You may have a dance/singing/art/sports/make-up/gaming niche; you may be navigating the space trying to carve out your niche that will help you stand out, and showcase more of your personality to those watching. Just make sure that your content is reflective of who you are, and doesn’t contain any obscenities or things that make others question your character, since that is very important, regardless of whether you study abroad or not.   

7. Research Projects and Publications 

Your academic focus and interests are projected through the kind of research you take on. Again, many a time, it shows initiative and puts a seal of your teachers’ promise in your potential and discretion. To international universities, research projects showcase areas of your interest, educate you on research and how to go about it, and help you pay more attention to detail and use your judgment. If you’re applying to a school that has a reputation for research will give you an edge as an international student, especially over others.   

8. Courses and Certifications 

Your interest in subjects outside of school, knowledge of trends and drive to learn are showcased by any extra certifications or courses you take. Whether it’s on subjects you’re excited to learn about, or topics that help you understand the subject you want to study better, these extra courses and certifications are sure to impress the Admissions Officer and prove to them your ambition.   

9. Extracurriculars  

Your extracurricular activities display your vigor for sport, dance, photography, or whatever your non-academic roles are at school, or outside. What matters is your zeal for what you do, and the joy it brings you. You don’t need to be the best at something, because it’s about your commitment to your skill and the kind of relief it brings you.   

10. Community Outreach/Volunteer Work   

As part of society, it is our collective duty to help those who lack the opportunity or access to certain things, or even basic needs like sanitation, education, or a home. Your commitment to helping the less privileged – whether it be through teaching, attending camps and workshops, helping a certain person you know who requires assistance – that’s what Universities want to know about. Why are you helping someone? What has it taught you? Have you come to any realizations because of it? Think of some of the deeper reasons outreach work is important to you when writing/talking about it, which will make your case stronger as an international student.   

11. Inter-school Competitions and MUN

Students’ growing passions for different activities give those who participate in various activities and try out new things. Model United Nations (MUN) participants showcase their ability to take a stand and display their oratory and research skills in a fairly competitive environment. This shows determination, grit, and resilience to international universities, and makes your case stronger as an international student.   

12. Additional Hobbies 

Any additional hobbies like traveling, hiking, fitness, etc. – can all be great ways to boost your profile and show the University who you are, which is very important as an international student. It’s more about what you make of the experience and what you learn from it. Honing your skills, having an outlet for your emotions – is a great way to showcase commitment and healthy coping mechanisms!   

Just remember – it’s all about who you are and your outlook on things. Even if you have just one thing on your profile apart from academics, don’t feel you don’t have a chance. You’re so much more than your grades and achievements. Give it your all, and trust EduVisa Services to help you navigate this tough journey. We’re here to ensure your best qualities get highlighted and remember – Your dream university awaits!