Campuslife @ UTAS

For more on the University of Tasmania's Bachelor of Law programme with KDU College, please click here.

5 Things You Need to Know When Choosing a College

Here comes the tipping point. This point is to determine the step you take that could possibly and should change the rest of your life. This change, as regarded by some, can be brutal. For those who are contemplating a student life in a private college, the language change from Bahasa Malaysia to English could be a challenge. Others simply want to enjoy the borderless liberation of no uniform outfits, unique timetables, lavish cafeterias and modern libraries, computer labs and classrooms.

Peers and lifestyle may be factors that play a part in your education institution decision. And most often, these could be the wrong reasons for choosing a college. On the other hand, you are encouraged to keep an open mind and go for an education that fits your needs. We advise you to consider these factors the next time you visit a college or university.

1. Programme of Interest
You do better in a subject you have a passion for. That is the normal adage we find true in most of our students. A good start is by taking a Career Test. This may consist of a set of questions you have to answer about yourself which will then reveal your career interest. For those who do know what their interest is, they may opt for a specific programme like Diploma in Culinary Arts, Hospitality & Tourism, Business, Mass Communication or Information Technology. We also see a typical scene where students do not know what to do after SPM and we advise them to take up the Pre-University (Foundation or A-Level) or American Degree Program. These programmes do not limit the students’ interest but will allow them more time to decide on their next area of study.

2. University Recognition
Recognition and awards are important in determining the company you work in and the network you hold after graduation. It is what every employer will look for when interviewing and accepting graduates for jobs. A point to consider when speaking to an education counselor is the rank of the university and its international acceptance. The higher the rank of the institution, the more challenging the programme may be. And this high level of expectations and challenge is what many good employers are looking out for. There are many bogus colleges and universities offering affordable and easy-to-pass programmes that may not be recognized. Be wary and do a thorough search on the institution. If you smell a rat, run as far as you can.

3. Fees
Many colleges are now offering affordable twinning programmes (1+2, 2+1 or 3+0) with various partner universities in the UK, Australia, Switzerland, and many more. This means, you will be a graduate of an established international university by studying in Malaysia without having to set foot in those countries.

4. Scholarships and Loans
With the help of scholarships and loans, the financial burdens of higher education can be significantly reduced. Some colleges award tuition fee waivers to students who achieve as few as 5As and more in their SPM exams. Enquire with your education counselor on other scholarships that take into account not only your academic studies but also extra curricular activities, sports achievements, mid-term and trial results. Government loans such as PTPTN, education bank loans and withdrawals from parents’ EPF are also applicable.

5. Location
This is probably one aspect perceived less important for some - the location of the college or university. Your state of mind is important before starting a class. Therefore, make absolutely sure your travel to college or university is as hassle-free as possible. Your institution should be located near public transportation and it should have sufficient car park space. It should also be near eateries, convenience stores, clinics and other important student amenities. Otherwise, check with the college on their student accommodation options.

Most colleges will commence intake after the release of the SPM results in March. Before making a decision, you could first research (call or perform an online search) the programme and institution of your interest. Also, many institutions will participate in education fairs which are good places to get your questions answered and decisions firmed. Just remember to bring a pen and paper. Happy shopping!


By Serena Ng

University of Manchester and KDU College

London has decided to give up the job of capital and go into quiet retirement. When everyone north of Leicester is done cheering, England looks around for a substitute and after some consideration the nation turns to... Sorry Birmingham, but it can be only Manchester, the uncrowned capital of the north and a city embracing change like few others in Europe.

Manchester knows all about improbable scenarios and has never shied away from responsibility. After all, this was the city that gave birth to capitalism and the Industrial Revolution, so what’s a little self-inflating urban redesign to a burgh that knows a thing or two about altering the history of the world?

Highlights
Manchester Central Library
The Central Library is one of Manchester's most famous and best loved landmarks. For generations of Manchester residents and students, it has been not only the place to study but also somewhere to meet friends. It is open to all.

The Lowry gallery
The Lowry houses two main theatres and studio space for performing arts (1,730, 466 and 180 seats respectively) presenting a full range of drama, opera, ballet, dance, musicals, children's shows, popular music, jazz, folk and comedy and gallery spaces (1,610 metres of floor space); showing the works of LS Lowry alongside contemporary exhibitions.

University of Manchester
University of Manchester is a prestigious university that was involved in splitting the atom as well as creating the modern computer. It is the largest campus in the United Kingdom and is known as "Britain's #1 Student City." Whether you are going to tour the beautiful campus or you enroll in the esteemed classes, the University will not disappoint.

University of Manchester

University Place

My Friend, Annabelle

The John Rylands University Library

Old Trafford
Old Trafford is home to Manchester United, who is one of the best teams in the world. The stadium has a massive capacity of roughly 76,000 and is one of the biggest stadiums in the world! Old Trafford is nicknamed the "Theatre of Dreams" and is a brilliant stadium. The atmosphere is amazing and when a goal is scored you see a sea of red of all ages jumping up and down in joy. Most of the fans sing songs and football chants and if everyone is shouting the noise is phenomenal.

Exchange Square
The IRA bombing in 1996 ruined the City Center. Its redevelopment has created a large, impressive shopping area. Dozens of shops, such as the largest Marks & Spencer in Europe, combine with the comfortable open space of the Square, making it the perfect setting for the avid shopper. A new entrance to the Manchester Arndale Centre and the upscale Triangle are all found in or around Exchange Square.


Best Way To Get Around:
Metrolink Rapid Transit
Manchester has an excellent integrated transport network, which includes the Metrolink tram system which services Manchester airport, the city centre and the local boroughs. The trams are fast and efficient.

Buses
The Metroshuttle City Centre Buses are free and run on two circular routes, which include all major rail stations, bus stops and Metrolink stops.

Cycling
Manchester also has a system of cycling paths, although these can be a bit risky during times of heavy traffic.

Life @ Manchester
I'm sure you're excited with all these offerings by now? Imagine...Studying at a top university, watching the Red Devils play at Old Trafford, hanging out with the greats like Ryan Giggs and Cristiano Ronaldo, watching gigs from popular bands such as OASIS, TAKE THAT and SIMPLY RED. Now your dreams can become a reality when you register as a student of KDU College's twinning programme with University of Manchester.

KDU-University of Manchester (1+2) B.A. (Hons) Economics

This twinning programme is offered by the School of Arts and Social Sciences (SASS) of KDU College. This twinning route gives its students an opportunity to be part of the outstanding community that belongs to University of Manchester, UK. The university holds a long standing reputation for producing some of the world's finest graduates. So, you too can be part of the success story as a student of University of Manchester. The students will finish their first year in KDU College while completing the remaining 2 years of the programme in Manchester, UK.

Majors available: Accounting, Accounting & Finance, Business Studies, Economics, Economics & Social History, Development Studies, Social Anthropology, Sociology and Social Studies.

Please click here... for more information on this twinning programme or other Business programmes offered by KDU College

You may also contact KDU College programme counsellor, Mr. Lita Tan at 03-7728 8123 Ext. 633 or E-mail: best@kdu.edu.my

About The Author:
The author is an avid backpacker and has traveled to 120 cities and 50 countries. He enjoys meeting new people and learning new cultures. He writes destination reviews on his blog at http://www.davidtann.net