Manav Rachna International University Convocation, 2011
Mr. Jim Nickel, Deputy High Commissioner, Canada delivers convocation address, 400 students convocated
RFID based Smart Degree Certificate are introduced for the 1st time in North India by Manav Rachna International University
Degrees of ALGONQUIN College, OTTAWA, CANADA - in Graphic Design, Advertisement, Journalism, Mech Engg Technology and Mech Tool making were also awarded during the function.
Faridabad, 16th September 2011: Manav Rachna International University, Faridabad today hosted the event of the year - Convocation 2011 - for its eleven programmes - 3 M Tech - CE / ECE/ Biotech (Master of Technology in Computer Engineering; Electronics and Communication Engg and Biotechnology) 6 MPT (Master of Physiotherapy - Muscular Skeleton, Cardio Pulmonary, Sports & Neurology), 2 MBA (Master of Business Administration), MJMC and MSC N&D (Nutrition and Dietetics).
The event was graced by the presence of Mr. Jim Nickel, Deputy High Commissioner, Canada who was Chief Guest on the occasion. Dr. O.P. Bhalla, Chancellor, MRIU and Dr. N.C. Wadhwa conferred the degrees.
MRIU has introduced an RFID based Smart Degree Certificate for the 1st time in North India for its 1st batch of graduates. The degrees were given to the Graduates today by the Vice Chancellor of MRIU. MRIU has adopted modern technology not only in enhancing the teaching learning experience but also providing academic credentials which are secured and authenticated.
Chief Guest, Mr. Jim Nickel, Deputy High Commissioner, Canada expressed his thanks & gratitude to MRIU for inviting him to this Ist Convocation & congratulated all the students for their academic excellence and achievements. He advised students to use their knowledge to help India to march further ahead & achieve still higher level of growth & development. He further added, "The world, including Canada, is looking at India as a major knowledge hub with huge base of skilled people. The young student population of India represents India's knowledge potential. My advice to all the degree recipients would be to use their training wisely and make a positive contribution to the society, community, country & world as a whole."
He highlighted about the Indo Canadian collaboration in the areas of education, trade & commerce, energy, agriculture, infrastructure & such areas & looked forward to major contribution from the best brains from India & Canada towards growth of knowledge & well being.
The annual report was presented by Dr. N.C Wadhwa, Vice Chancellor, MRIU highlighting the progress and development that have taken place in various departments. In his address, he said, "I extend a hearty & warm welcome to the Chief Guest Mr. Jim Nickel at this 1st Convocation of Manav Rachna International University."
Dr. Wadhwa while congratulating the students on the successful completion of their courses said, "Technological development alone will take India to the forefront of developed nations and the speed to this technological revolution will be lent by none, but you the present engineers. You should develop not only as skillful professionals in your respective areas of study, but also as good human beings. You will have lots of opportunities to advance your careers". He also mentioned that MRIU's dedicated focus on Quality Education & comprehensive development of students under the visionary leadership of Chancellor Dr. OP Bhalla and advised the students to keep the MRIU flag flying high, with their professional work quality & contribution to society. He wished students very best in their careers & personal life.
Convocation 2011 ended on a high note with students throwing their graduation caps in the air with beaming eyes looking forward to yet another challenging phase of their lives and enjoying the camaraderie of fellow students & faculty members.
About RFID Smart Degree Certificate
RFID based smart degree certificate is temper proof and ensures the integrity of the data written on the chip which is embedded in the certificate that looks like a conventional degree. There is a provision for biometric validity through finger prints of Left Hand Thumb and Right Hand Thumb and digital signature of the issuing authority as well as student concerned, which could be verified through a verification portal. The verification process includes visual verification, data verification and digital identity verification, all of which combined establish the authenticity of the academic credentials of the Graduate. Verification of the degree certificate may be done from a remote location. The RFID chip in the smart degree has read only features for the authorized persons and no data can be written on it once the University finally closes the option.
Adoption of smart degrees for the passed out Graduates shall ensure that fake degree, if any, is easily detected by the employer / institution and all academic credentials of the students including continuous evaluation and term end evaluation are authentic and temper proof. The mechanism also provides for duplicate degree, as and when, the original degree is damaged or lost. If some errors creep in the data written on RFID chip and are duly verified, it is possible to issue a modified degree. In such case the previous degree will have to be returned to the University before new degree issues, but the previous degree will otherwise be cancelled in the database and degree verification / authentication shall depict the result that previous degree is no more valid. Hence, even if a student carries such degree, employer / institution would immediately know that it is not a valid degree.
About Manav Rachna International University
Manav Rachna Educational Institutions (MREI), founded in 1997, has grown to become one of the best education entity in the Country and have built a reputation for excellence in professional education and research. MREI now encompasses Manav Rachna International University, a deemed to be University under section 3 of UGC Act, 1956, Manav Rachna College of Engineering, Manav Rachna Dental College, Faridabad Institute of Technology, M.R. College of Education, Manav Rachna International Schools with emphasis on employable technical and soft skills including communication, team building and leadership, positive attitude and belief in self. The focus at MREI is on all round personality development to enable the pass outs to face any global challenge. Reputed employers and academic experts are involved in development of competency base curriculum aimed at problem solving capabilities.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
West Bengal Government pondering upon Common PG Entrance Test
Council of Presidency University has decided to reserve 50% of its own post graduate seats for undergraduate students. Such practices can also be used by other state universities as well. State Government is planning to introduce a common entrance examination to fill postgraduate seats in all state universities. Reserved PG seats are of less concern when students are interested to get admission to the other state institute as they simply need to crack the exam.
Students are flickered upon the conventional reservation system, as it creates problem for students who want to take admission to certain masters' courses, as various universities reserve a significant percentage of their PG seats for their own graduates. When the Presidency College has decided reserve 50% of its seats for students from its own undergraduate courses, the vice Chancellor of Calcutta University said that some of the universities keep the quota for PG students for their own graduates which are archaic in its approach.
Presidency University which is new and modern should not follow the same criteria. He also said, if he'll be provided with an opportunity then he would remove reservation of PG seats in Calcutta University (CU) as well. The mentor group of Presidency University is also against of this reservation of PG seats.
Unexpectedly, 95% of the PG seats in Calcutta University are reserved for its own graduating students. CU had explained that its strict marking system could become a big disadvantage for its own students while competing for PG seats with other university graduates who would have higher scores.
However, Calcutta University conducts entrance examination for its various PG programmes and seats for the remaining courses are filled on the basis of undergraduate marks.
Students are flickered upon the conventional reservation system, as it creates problem for students who want to take admission to certain masters' courses, as various universities reserve a significant percentage of their PG seats for their own graduates. When the Presidency College has decided reserve 50% of its seats for students from its own undergraduate courses, the vice Chancellor of Calcutta University said that some of the universities keep the quota for PG students for their own graduates which are archaic in its approach.
Presidency University which is new and modern should not follow the same criteria. He also said, if he'll be provided with an opportunity then he would remove reservation of PG seats in Calcutta University (CU) as well. The mentor group of Presidency University is also against of this reservation of PG seats.
Unexpectedly, 95% of the PG seats in Calcutta University are reserved for its own graduating students. CU had explained that its strict marking system could become a big disadvantage for its own students while competing for PG seats with other university graduates who would have higher scores.
However, Calcutta University conducts entrance examination for its various PG programmes and seats for the remaining courses are filled on the basis of undergraduate marks.
Candidates fouled up first CET for Banks
On Sunday, the first ever common entrance test (CET) for public sector banks was held. Candidates fouled it up as more than 100 candidates were refused to enter examination halls in Nagpur itself. As per the officials, students did not have the required documents. Officials who were conducting the exam alienated students at various centers across Nagpur.
Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) conducted CET on behalf of 19 banks for the posts of probationary officers and management trainees. A faction of candidates lodged a complaint over the issue who has appeared for the exam at a center in Nandanvan. Complainants said that they were denied to enter the examination hall and in this concern, they will have a word with the IBPS to conduct the exam again.
IBPS has clearly stated on the website that students have to bring their exam call letter, the original e-receipt/NEFT receipt and photo identity proof in original and a photocopy. Without these three, students will not be allowed to enter the examination hall.
Students acclaimed that, IBPS did not informed about all these things beforehand. The call letter can be downloaded from the internet and it was available on website only a couple of days back. Students also said that they sat for long hours but the system denied the entry. A complainant said that, officials conducting the exam wanted a bank stamp on the e-receipt. But if it is an e-receipt how will it have a stamp on it? Every thing was mismanaged and it was a full waste of time. Some students were refused to enter as they were lacking just one single document.
Invigilators have put all the blame on candidates that they came without the required documents and when half of the students can come with the documents then why not others..?? Candidates wont read the instructions properly and they arrived without documents and some arrived late that's why they were refused to enter.
Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) conducted CET on behalf of 19 banks for the posts of probationary officers and management trainees. A faction of candidates lodged a complaint over the issue who has appeared for the exam at a center in Nandanvan. Complainants said that they were denied to enter the examination hall and in this concern, they will have a word with the IBPS to conduct the exam again.
IBPS has clearly stated on the website that students have to bring their exam call letter, the original e-receipt/NEFT receipt and photo identity proof in original and a photocopy. Without these three, students will not be allowed to enter the examination hall.
Students acclaimed that, IBPS did not informed about all these things beforehand. The call letter can be downloaded from the internet and it was available on website only a couple of days back. Students also said that they sat for long hours but the system denied the entry. A complainant said that, officials conducting the exam wanted a bank stamp on the e-receipt. But if it is an e-receipt how will it have a stamp on it? Every thing was mismanaged and it was a full waste of time. Some students were refused to enter as they were lacking just one single document.
Invigilators have put all the blame on candidates that they came without the required documents and when half of the students can come with the documents then why not others..?? Candidates wont read the instructions properly and they arrived without documents and some arrived late that's why they were refused to enter.
KOSMOS 2011
Fest Season in Kanpur!
Dr Gaur Hari Singhania Institute of Management and Research (GHS-IMR), Kanpur, which is one of the most prestigious institute for management education, has announced its annual festival KOSMOS 2011 from 22 October 2011 to 23 October 2011. It will be two days inter college festival which will experience a multitude of management games, sports events and cultural activities.
GHS-IMR developed under the aegis of JK Organization Kanpur, in 1995. It has been established with the objectives to provide formal management education and developing technical, professional and managerial excellence, and social and cultural sensitivity.
Highlights of KOSMOS 2011:
A musical extravaganza by the popular playback singer KK (the melodious voice behind the song Tadap tadap ke iss dil se from the movie ‘Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam' and the album Pal)
A mini marathon - KOSMOTHON
Previous KOSMOS was a grand success and it has received praise from all parts of society for its greatness and effective management. KOSMOS 2011 is a step ahead and will bring creativity and ingenuity to life again.
Dr Gaur Hari Singhania Institute of Management and Research (GHS-IMR), Kanpur, which is one of the most prestigious institute for management education, has announced its annual festival KOSMOS 2011 from 22 October 2011 to 23 October 2011. It will be two days inter college festival which will experience a multitude of management games, sports events and cultural activities.
GHS-IMR developed under the aegis of JK Organization Kanpur, in 1995. It has been established with the objectives to provide formal management education and developing technical, professional and managerial excellence, and social and cultural sensitivity.
Highlights of KOSMOS 2011:
A musical extravaganza by the popular playback singer KK (the melodious voice behind the song Tadap tadap ke iss dil se from the movie ‘Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam' and the album Pal)
A mini marathon - KOSMOTHON
Previous KOSMOS was a grand success and it has received praise from all parts of society for its greatness and effective management. KOSMOS 2011 is a step ahead and will bring creativity and ingenuity to life again.
CAT Registration Extended Till 4th October, 2011
Indian Institutes of Management (IIM) has extended period for the sale of CAT vouchers till 1st October, 2011 and CAT registration has been extended until 4th October, 2011. This announcement has been made by IIMs for the registration period for the Common Admission Test (CAT) 2011.
Else, there will be no change in other terms and conditions which were mentioned in the CAT 2011 advertisement published in major national newspapers on August 07, 2011 and on the official website.
It has been extended in order to offer convenience to students who are interested in applying for the eminent management institutes, including Indian Institutes of Technology and Faculty of Management Studies, University of Delhi and at the order of some candidates who needs a longer registration period.
Common Admission Test (CAT) for 2011 will be conducted by the IIMs and in partnership with Prometric. It will hold between 22nd October - 18th November, 2011 and you can get the vouchers for CAT 2011 at selected Axis Bank branches.
Else, there will be no change in other terms and conditions which were mentioned in the CAT 2011 advertisement published in major national newspapers on August 07, 2011 and on the official website.
It has been extended in order to offer convenience to students who are interested in applying for the eminent management institutes, including Indian Institutes of Technology and Faculty of Management Studies, University of Delhi and at the order of some candidates who needs a longer registration period.
Common Admission Test (CAT) for 2011 will be conducted by the IIMs and in partnership with Prometric. It will hold between 22nd October - 18th November, 2011 and you can get the vouchers for CAT 2011 at selected Axis Bank branches.
Keck Foundation Awards $250K Grant to Engineering Dept
The new Engineering Department at Benedictine College recently received a major boost from the W. M. Keck Foundation; a $250,000 grant. The award follows a $250,000 grant from the National Science Foundation in August 2010. The new money will immediately allow for the construction of a combined lab that will include fluid flow, heat transfer and process control. In addition to allowing for expansion and construction of lab space, the two grants have significantly accelerated the overall program, according to Dr. Darrin Muggli, professor and chair of the Benedictine College Engineering Department.
"We established the engineering program through a partnership with the University of North Dakota," said Muggli. "The NSF grant helped us to build a distance-learning classroom and purchase equipment for our first lab. This Keck Foundation grant will provide the funds to establish a fluids lab and rapidly develop our engineering program."
Muggli said interest in engineering at Benedictine has continued to grow and applications to the program are up 60% from the previous year.
"We established the engineering program through a partnership with the University of North Dakota," said Muggli. "The NSF grant helped us to build a distance-learning classroom and purchase equipment for our first lab. This Keck Foundation grant will provide the funds to establish a fluids lab and rapidly develop our engineering program."
Muggli said interest in engineering at Benedictine has continued to grow and applications to the program are up 60% from the previous year.
Ferris Reports Record Fall 2011 Enrollment
The energy and enthusiasm of students has returned to Ferris State University for the Fall 2011 semester, and school officials are reporting a seventh consecutive year of record enrollment.
The state of Michigan's fastest-growing university reports that there are 14,560 students enrolled system wide at Ferris. This fall's enrollment total is up 179 students from the Fall 2010 semester figure and that represents an increase of 1.2 percent for the university system. On the main campus in Big Rapids, Ferris has a total of 9,970 students. That is an increase of 39 students from the previous fall term.
"Our growth - particularly in main campus freshmen and online students - demonstrates what an exciting time it is to be a part of Ferris State University,"said Dean of Enrollment Services Kristen Salomonson, who also noted an 8.5 percent increase in freshmen admissions on the Big Rapids campus. "Ferris is a place where students feel welcome and know they will receive a great education that leads them to a successful career. We are becoming the institution of choice for many students from all over Michigan and beyond."
The number of students who are attending college for the first time is up by 200 at Ferris since the Fall 2010 semester, to a total of 2,556.
The state of Michigan's fastest-growing university reports that there are 14,560 students enrolled system wide at Ferris. This fall's enrollment total is up 179 students from the Fall 2010 semester figure and that represents an increase of 1.2 percent for the university system. On the main campus in Big Rapids, Ferris has a total of 9,970 students. That is an increase of 39 students from the previous fall term.
"Our growth - particularly in main campus freshmen and online students - demonstrates what an exciting time it is to be a part of Ferris State University,"said Dean of Enrollment Services Kristen Salomonson, who also noted an 8.5 percent increase in freshmen admissions on the Big Rapids campus. "Ferris is a place where students feel welcome and know they will receive a great education that leads them to a successful career. We are becoming the institution of choice for many students from all over Michigan and beyond."
The number of students who are attending college for the first time is up by 200 at Ferris since the Fall 2010 semester, to a total of 2,556.
IT Giants to recruit 2.5 lakh engineering students this year
IT giants have kick-started their campus recruitment process with a bang and plan to recruit nearly 2.5 lakh engineering graduates from across the country's campuses this year. This means IT students will see ample job offers with handsome salaries from biggest technical companies of the country.
Last year, around 2 lakh engineering students were recruited during campus placements. Campus recruitment, which usually happens in the last semester, has been advanced to the seventh semester this year. Hence, IT companies have sent their HR teams to the campus to recruit the best talent.
Cognizant, a highly reputed IT company, has offered jobs to 807 students of Anna University's Guindy campus, Chennai, 703 to students from PSG College in Coimbatore and 500 students of Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi.. Similarly, TCS has issued offer letters to 702 students of Thiagarajar College of Engineering in Madurai, 515 students of Velammal Group of institutions, 500 of Sairam Group of Colleges and 645 of RMK Group of Institutions, all in Tamil Nadu.
Though the number of job offers to students has increased, pay packages offered by companies will, however, remain at last year level of Rs 3 lakh to Rs 3.25 lakh a year for these engineers.
As far as supply of the engineering students is concerned, states from south India are at forefront. Andhra Pradesh leads the supply side of students with nearly 2 lakh a year, followed by Tamil Nadu with a 1.8 lakh students. Karnataka and Maharashtra supply about 80,000 students a year to the job pool.
However, institutes across India are heaving a sigh of relief as they were expecting that US debt issue might impact placements. Speaking to The Times of India about this, Sivagnana Prabhu, head of training and corporate affairs, RMK Group of Institutions, says, "When we saw the situation created by the US debt deal we thought it would impact placements. But it has not reflected in the placements in our college. It has been better than last year, with 642 students being recruited this year while TCS absorbed 477 of our students in 2010."
The interest the IT companies are showing interest in hiring freshers has impressed NASSCOM. Officials from NASSCOM say that smaller and niche IT companies like Thoughtworks, muSigma, Robert Bosch have also joined the campus placements this year.
Last year, around 2 lakh engineering students were recruited during campus placements. Campus recruitment, which usually happens in the last semester, has been advanced to the seventh semester this year. Hence, IT companies have sent their HR teams to the campus to recruit the best talent.
Cognizant, a highly reputed IT company, has offered jobs to 807 students of Anna University's Guindy campus, Chennai, 703 to students from PSG College in Coimbatore and 500 students of Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi.. Similarly, TCS has issued offer letters to 702 students of Thiagarajar College of Engineering in Madurai, 515 students of Velammal Group of institutions, 500 of Sairam Group of Colleges and 645 of RMK Group of Institutions, all in Tamil Nadu.
Though the number of job offers to students has increased, pay packages offered by companies will, however, remain at last year level of Rs 3 lakh to Rs 3.25 lakh a year for these engineers.
As far as supply of the engineering students is concerned, states from south India are at forefront. Andhra Pradesh leads the supply side of students with nearly 2 lakh a year, followed by Tamil Nadu with a 1.8 lakh students. Karnataka and Maharashtra supply about 80,000 students a year to the job pool.
However, institutes across India are heaving a sigh of relief as they were expecting that US debt issue might impact placements. Speaking to The Times of India about this, Sivagnana Prabhu, head of training and corporate affairs, RMK Group of Institutions, says, "When we saw the situation created by the US debt deal we thought it would impact placements. But it has not reflected in the placements in our college. It has been better than last year, with 642 students being recruited this year while TCS absorbed 477 of our students in 2010."
The interest the IT companies are showing interest in hiring freshers has impressed NASSCOM. Officials from NASSCOM say that smaller and niche IT companies like Thoughtworks, muSigma, Robert Bosch have also joined the campus placements this year.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
IIM-A first choice among foreign students aspiring to study MBA in India
Indian Institute of Management- Ahemedabad (IIM-A) is very popular among foreign students. Every year, these premier B-schools host several foreign students in its campus. However, IIM-A is about to break its own record of hosting foreign students.
With one more term to go, the leading B-school of India has seen participation of around 67 students from foreign institutes for its flagship programmes, which is popular as postgraduate programme in management (PGP).
Faculty members are expecting that with one more term to go, total number of foreign students will cross last year’s number of 73, which was considered as highest so far (70 foreign students in exchange programme and 3 students in double degree programme).
Of the total foreign students this year, almost 63 students have come through student exchange programme. However, many have come through different academic tie-up with foreign institutes for their Double Degree Programme (2011-12).
These 67 students are from different 13 countries which include Asia-Pacific, Australia, Europe, USA and Canada. Faculty coordinator of the student exchange programme at IIM-A, Prof Arnab K Laha, believes that the institutes will welcome more foreign students this year as compared to last year. He further emphasised that they would know about the final number of the foreign students later as the last term registration will be done in October.
With one more term to go, the leading B-school of India has seen participation of around 67 students from foreign institutes for its flagship programmes, which is popular as postgraduate programme in management (PGP).
Faculty members are expecting that with one more term to go, total number of foreign students will cross last year’s number of 73, which was considered as highest so far (70 foreign students in exchange programme and 3 students in double degree programme).
Of the total foreign students this year, almost 63 students have come through student exchange programme. However, many have come through different academic tie-up with foreign institutes for their Double Degree Programme (2011-12).
These 67 students are from different 13 countries which include Asia-Pacific, Australia, Europe, USA and Canada. Faculty coordinator of the student exchange programme at IIM-A, Prof Arnab K Laha, believes that the institutes will welcome more foreign students this year as compared to last year. He further emphasised that they would know about the final number of the foreign students later as the last term registration will be done in October.
IIMs worried as 58 B-schools boycott CAT 2011
The Common Admission Test (CAT 2011) has yet again given the IIMs a cause for concern. Despite a successful run last year where it managed to retain its prestige and credibility, almost 60 B-schools, intriguingly, have chosen to not register for CAT 2011. The IIMs are now keen to assess why these institutes have decided not to register for the CAT.
This year, 145 business schools (excluding 13 IIMs) will consider CAT 2011 score for admitting students. Though the total number is not very different from last year, what has turned out to be a cause of concern for the organisers of this test is that 58 institutes, which were registered with CAT 2010, have dropped out. The CAT organisers want to know the reason for their discontinuation.
Of these B-schools that have dropped out from the list are Fostima Business School (New Delhi), Institute of Management and Development (Delhi), J.K. Padampat Singhania Institute of Management and Technology (Gurgaon).
Speaking about this trend, Jankiraman Moorthy, CAT 2011 convenor and faculty member of IIM-Calcutta, says, “Institutes leaving or joining CAT is nothing unusual. Though our core group of institutes is still with us, we have noticed that a large number from last year's list is missing. This is a cause of concern.”
However, CAT organisers are dismissing CAT 2009 glitches as the reason for their disassociation.
This year, 145 business schools (excluding 13 IIMs) will consider CAT 2011 score for admitting students. Though the total number is not very different from last year, what has turned out to be a cause of concern for the organisers of this test is that 58 institutes, which were registered with CAT 2010, have dropped out. The CAT organisers want to know the reason for their discontinuation.
Of these B-schools that have dropped out from the list are Fostima Business School (New Delhi), Institute of Management and Development (Delhi), J.K. Padampat Singhania Institute of Management and Technology (Gurgaon).
Speaking about this trend, Jankiraman Moorthy, CAT 2011 convenor and faculty member of IIM-Calcutta, says, “Institutes leaving or joining CAT is nothing unusual. Though our core group of institutes is still with us, we have noticed that a large number from last year's list is missing. This is a cause of concern.”
However, CAT organisers are dismissing CAT 2009 glitches as the reason for their disassociation.
IIMs in Bangalore, Calcutta mull over to extend final placement session
The prestigious Indian Institute of Management- Ahmedabad (IIM-A) has changed its final placement procedure. Following suit, two other leading IIMs- Bangalore (IIM-B) and Calcutta (IIM-C) are planning to make some changes in the final placement process for the coming year. Both the institutes are working on the new layout to make the final placement process convenient for both students and recruiting companies.
IIM-C placement official said, “In the next five-six weeks, we will introduce changes in the placement process. Companies have expressed that they want more time during placements. We, too, realised that it gets too stressful and hectic for students.” The changes in the final placement session also take into account that these institutes have increased their batch sizes. If we look at the present batch of IIM-B, there are 375 students as compared to 350 of previous batch. At IIM-C, there are 362 students and the number will increase up to 425 and 462 students at IIM-B and IIM-C respectively for the 2011-13 batch.
A professor at IIM-B said till IIM-A changed its placement process, most firms visited IIM-A, IIM-B and IIM-C during the same time of the year for final placements. A poor job market in 2009 had forced most Indian B-schools to review their placement strategy. In fact, the changes IIM-B and IIM-C will be in sync with that of IIM-A’s, where students and companies can get ample time to evaluate each other. “A spread out placement process will make our task easier to schedule firms during placements,” said the professor.
IIM-A was the first IIM to bring changes in the placement process last year, by bringing in the cohort-based system. According to this new process, every weekend companies from a particular sector will visit the campus as a cluster to recruit students. International investment banks and consulting firs formed the first cluster. The process carried on for well over a month. This new system will ensure more interaction time between students and firms.
IIM-C placement official said, “In the next five-six weeks, we will introduce changes in the placement process. Companies have expressed that they want more time during placements. We, too, realised that it gets too stressful and hectic for students.” The changes in the final placement session also take into account that these institutes have increased their batch sizes. If we look at the present batch of IIM-B, there are 375 students as compared to 350 of previous batch. At IIM-C, there are 362 students and the number will increase up to 425 and 462 students at IIM-B and IIM-C respectively for the 2011-13 batch.
A professor at IIM-B said till IIM-A changed its placement process, most firms visited IIM-A, IIM-B and IIM-C during the same time of the year for final placements. A poor job market in 2009 had forced most Indian B-schools to review their placement strategy. In fact, the changes IIM-B and IIM-C will be in sync with that of IIM-A’s, where students and companies can get ample time to evaluate each other. “A spread out placement process will make our task easier to schedule firms during placements,” said the professor.
IIM-A was the first IIM to bring changes in the placement process last year, by bringing in the cohort-based system. According to this new process, every weekend companies from a particular sector will visit the campus as a cluster to recruit students. International investment banks and consulting firs formed the first cluster. The process carried on for well over a month. This new system will ensure more interaction time between students and firms.
JNU ranked among top 100 universities of the world
The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) is India’s largest university. JNU has managed to secure a position in the top 100 QS World University Ranking this year. This is the first time when QS world ranking has published a subject-wise ranking list in which English department of the JNU has been ranked among the top 100 English departments in the world. This is not all, two other departments- geography and area studies, and politics and international studies- too have found a place among the top 100 universities of the world.
Saugata Bhaduri, chairperson, centre for English studies (CES), school of language, literature and culture studies, JNU said, “Though JNU has been rated as one of the top 100 universities of the world in the past, it is for the first time that the agency has considered individual departments around the world. I am proud that CES has been ranked in the bracket of 51-100.”
After achieving this position among the top 100 universities of the world, the chairperson of the department is keen to maintain this position in the coming year too. “I feel that we have to face immense challenges to upgrade to higher levels in the coming lists.”
According to Nunzio Quacquarelli, managing director of QS world ranking, this new initiative will help students in a better way as they have refined their ranking and indicated their excellence in a specific area of study at international level. He gave all the credit of this success to students and the type of research work they conduct with the help of faculty members.
Quacquarelli said, “Students are increasingly looking to pursue their graduate or postgraduate degree overseas. For the students and his/her family, studying abroad represents a major investment, and it is not surprising that people want detailed information upon which to base their educational investment decision. The role of rankings, in this context, is important.”
Saugata Bhaduri, chairperson, centre for English studies (CES), school of language, literature and culture studies, JNU said, “Though JNU has been rated as one of the top 100 universities of the world in the past, it is for the first time that the agency has considered individual departments around the world. I am proud that CES has been ranked in the bracket of 51-100.”
After achieving this position among the top 100 universities of the world, the chairperson of the department is keen to maintain this position in the coming year too. “I feel that we have to face immense challenges to upgrade to higher levels in the coming lists.”
According to Nunzio Quacquarelli, managing director of QS world ranking, this new initiative will help students in a better way as they have refined their ranking and indicated their excellence in a specific area of study at international level. He gave all the credit of this success to students and the type of research work they conduct with the help of faculty members.
Quacquarelli said, “Students are increasingly looking to pursue their graduate or postgraduate degree overseas. For the students and his/her family, studying abroad represents a major investment, and it is not surprising that people want detailed information upon which to base their educational investment decision. The role of rankings, in this context, is important.”
Study at Les Roches Marbella – Spain Hospitality: Careers without Boundaries
Welcome to the world of Hospitality! The “hospitality industry” not only comprises of hotels and restaurants but also travel, tourism and leisure, which are some of the fastest-growing sectors of the global economy and this trend is forecasted to continue. As the industry expands, hospitality graduates are working in a wider spectrum of positions than ever before.
The Travel and Tourism industry is the largest employer in the world with the ambition to keep growing and developing. Its broad spectrum of employment opportunities includes hotels and restaurants but also many other sectors such as travel agencies, transportation, health and spas, theme parks and casinos to name just a few.
EMPLOYMENT: The contribution of the Travel & Tourism economy to total employment is expected to rise from 219,810,000 jobs in 2009, 7.6% of total employment, or 1 in every 13.1 to 303 million jobs are expected in the hospitality business, representing 1 in every 11 jobs worldwide (UNWTO outlook for 2020)
By acquiring the knowledge, the practical and personal skills needed for hotel management, you will have many challenging and stimulating career options. The hospitality industry offers not only an exciting and challenging international work environment but also diverse job opportunities upon graduating from Les Roches Marbella:
Hotels / resorts / Restaurants / Bars and Clubs
Catering
Facilities Management
Entertainment and Leisure
Casinos
Entertainment and Amusement
Theme Parks & Recreation
Airlines / cruise ships / Rail
Travel and Tourism
Shopping Centers
Events Management / Conventions and Conferences
Clinics and hospitals
Health and Fitness /Spas /Wellness
Human Resources
Management Consulting
Education /training
Logistics Management
Real Estate Development
Media
BACHELOR IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (HOSPITALITY)
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
This four year program fully prepares students to enter the hospitality industry with confidence and particularly develops management theories and competencies using a range of teaching and learning processes. The program is structured in 5 semesters of academic study (2 academic / practical “craft-based-learning” semesters) at the School, and 3 semesters completing professional supervised internships at hotels and hospitality establishments worldwide. The program is delivered entirely in English. The degree program concludes with an internship in the industry that will facilitate the students’ employability. The Bachelor in Business Administration (Hospitality)* degree is the best choice for those students who wish to reach leadership positions in companies or step into the international entrepreneurial world and also gives access to post-graduate studies.
http://www.lesroches.es/common/img/library/spacer.gif
The BBA Program focuses on developing skills of analysis, evaluation and conceptualization. Experience dealing with numerous managerial issues, from human resources to IT decision-making. Classes include: strategic marketing, financial management, yield and revenue management, performance management, HRM planning and development and general education subjects.
NEW BBA SPECIALIZATIONS
Les Roches Marbella is launching 2 new BBA Hospitality specializations to give students a wider choice of academic programs:
Resort Management
This specialization is dedicated to students who wish to acquire specific knowledge about resorts management and related business. The specialization includes specific subjects in Timeshare, Vacation Ownership and Spa Hotel Resorts and Golf Club Management. This stream is highly recommended for students who wish to reach leadership positions in companies or step into the entrepreneurial world.
Event Management
This specialization is dedicated to students who have a passion for events management and related business. It includes specific subjects in Events Management, Convention and Trade Fair Planning. This stream is highly recommended for students who wish to work in international hotel chains or step into the entrepreneurial world and is in high demand from industry professionals.
UPCOMING INTAKES: JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012 AND JULY/AUGUST 2012
For more information on Admission requirements and Applications to the BBA HOSPITALITY Program at Les Roches Marbella log onto www.lesroches.es or write in to the India admissions office at info@kichospitality.com
The Travel and Tourism industry is the largest employer in the world with the ambition to keep growing and developing. Its broad spectrum of employment opportunities includes hotels and restaurants but also many other sectors such as travel agencies, transportation, health and spas, theme parks and casinos to name just a few.
EMPLOYMENT: The contribution of the Travel & Tourism economy to total employment is expected to rise from 219,810,000 jobs in 2009, 7.6% of total employment, or 1 in every 13.1 to 303 million jobs are expected in the hospitality business, representing 1 in every 11 jobs worldwide (UNWTO outlook for 2020)
By acquiring the knowledge, the practical and personal skills needed for hotel management, you will have many challenging and stimulating career options. The hospitality industry offers not only an exciting and challenging international work environment but also diverse job opportunities upon graduating from Les Roches Marbella:
Hotels / resorts / Restaurants / Bars and Clubs
Catering
Facilities Management
Entertainment and Leisure
Casinos
Entertainment and Amusement
Theme Parks & Recreation
Airlines / cruise ships / Rail
Travel and Tourism
Shopping Centers
Events Management / Conventions and Conferences
Clinics and hospitals
Health and Fitness /Spas /Wellness
Human Resources
Management Consulting
Education /training
Logistics Management
Real Estate Development
Media
BACHELOR IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (HOSPITALITY)
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
This four year program fully prepares students to enter the hospitality industry with confidence and particularly develops management theories and competencies using a range of teaching and learning processes. The program is structured in 5 semesters of academic study (2 academic / practical “craft-based-learning” semesters) at the School, and 3 semesters completing professional supervised internships at hotels and hospitality establishments worldwide. The program is delivered entirely in English. The degree program concludes with an internship in the industry that will facilitate the students’ employability. The Bachelor in Business Administration (Hospitality)* degree is the best choice for those students who wish to reach leadership positions in companies or step into the international entrepreneurial world and also gives access to post-graduate studies.
http://www.lesroches.es/common/img/library/spacer.gif
The BBA Program focuses on developing skills of analysis, evaluation and conceptualization. Experience dealing with numerous managerial issues, from human resources to IT decision-making. Classes include: strategic marketing, financial management, yield and revenue management, performance management, HRM planning and development and general education subjects.
NEW BBA SPECIALIZATIONS
Les Roches Marbella is launching 2 new BBA Hospitality specializations to give students a wider choice of academic programs:
Resort Management
This specialization is dedicated to students who wish to acquire specific knowledge about resorts management and related business. The specialization includes specific subjects in Timeshare, Vacation Ownership and Spa Hotel Resorts and Golf Club Management. This stream is highly recommended for students who wish to reach leadership positions in companies or step into the entrepreneurial world.
Event Management
This specialization is dedicated to students who have a passion for events management and related business. It includes specific subjects in Events Management, Convention and Trade Fair Planning. This stream is highly recommended for students who wish to work in international hotel chains or step into the entrepreneurial world and is in high demand from industry professionals.
UPCOMING INTAKES: JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012 AND JULY/AUGUST 2012
For more information on Admission requirements and Applications to the BBA HOSPITALITY Program at Les Roches Marbella log onto www.lesroches.es or write in to the India admissions office at info@kichospitality.com
US shows concern over lesser qualified visa applications
Much before the Tri-Valley University scam that affected many Indians was exposed in the US, the American Consulate in Mumbai had expressed concern over a huge jump in lesser qualified student visa applications, a leaked US diplomatic cable has said.
According to the cable over the past years, Mumbai recorded a noticeable increase in the number of lesser qualified student visa applicants, many of them even applied to the same universities. A study of student visa revealed that multiple transfers were not unusual and almost 40% of transfer were to a lower level degree programme.
It said, “In a second random sample of applicants issued only for study at universities identified by adjudicators as attracting a higher number of unqualified applicants, the completion rate was lower, rate of terminations higher, and the number of transfers down was greater.”
An extraordinary number of repeat refusal increases the refusal rate per application to 33 per cent. It said, “Unqualified F1 visa applicants appear for third, fourth, and sometimes seventh interviews hoping for a different decision.”
The cable said, “Mumbai's refused student applicants are characterised by difficulty communicating in English (with or without anticipated English training on their I-20s), few or single university applications submitted, poor standardized test scores, financing by extended family dependant on agricultural income, and a rehearsed script of the reasons they selected the particular university.”
Cable also mentioned, “Many of these applicants state that they found the school on the internet, but when pressed during the interview acknowledged that they applied based on a local recruiting agent's presentation.”
The US Consulate in Mumbai carried out a detailed investigation into the students visas issued by it and questioned as to how an Indian student admitted to a university in California was doing a job in suburb of Washington.
According to the cable over the past years, Mumbai recorded a noticeable increase in the number of lesser qualified student visa applicants, many of them even applied to the same universities. A study of student visa revealed that multiple transfers were not unusual and almost 40% of transfer were to a lower level degree programme.
It said, “In a second random sample of applicants issued only for study at universities identified by adjudicators as attracting a higher number of unqualified applicants, the completion rate was lower, rate of terminations higher, and the number of transfers down was greater.”
An extraordinary number of repeat refusal increases the refusal rate per application to 33 per cent. It said, “Unqualified F1 visa applicants appear for third, fourth, and sometimes seventh interviews hoping for a different decision.”
The cable said, “Mumbai's refused student applicants are characterised by difficulty communicating in English (with or without anticipated English training on their I-20s), few or single university applications submitted, poor standardized test scores, financing by extended family dependant on agricultural income, and a rehearsed script of the reasons they selected the particular university.”
Cable also mentioned, “Many of these applicants state that they found the school on the internet, but when pressed during the interview acknowledged that they applied based on a local recruiting agent's presentation.”
The US Consulate in Mumbai carried out a detailed investigation into the students visas issued by it and questioned as to how an Indian student admitted to a university in California was doing a job in suburb of Washington.
MBA Entrance Exams Calendar 2011-12: A Key to Success
Are you looking for a perfect place for all your queries..??Check out the MBA Entrance Exam Calendar 2011-12 here... MBA entrance exam dates have been already announced and some of them are to reach the registration deadline soon. Some of the eminent B-schools have already declared their application process for the academic year 2012-14.
It is the time to baptize in preparation of the exams but it is extremely important to get all the updates and make sure that you won'lt miss out any important deadlines.
Through this column of information you'll be able to acquire all the important MBA exam dates and get the admission to your dream B-school.
Some Important exams and last date of the application submission date and examination date are mentioned below in the table:
Exams Application Deadline Date of the Exam
IIFT 2011 5th September, 2011, Monday 27th November, 2011, Sunday
CAT 2011 Voucher Sale – 26th September, 2011, Monday
Registration – 28th September, 2011, Wednesday 22nd October, 2011 - 18th November, 2011
NMAT 2012 Registration – 11th October, 2011, Tuesday
Late Registration – 20th October, 2011, Thursday 31st October, 2011- 18th November, 2011
IRMA 2011 30th September, 2011, Friday 13th November, 2011, Sunday
SNAP 2011 November 18th December, 2011, Sunday
The registration process for XAT 2012 and FMS 2011 are yet to start.
Application process of eminent B-schools in the country:
Institute Name Programs offered Location Admission Forms Availability Application Submission Date Application Fees Selection Process
Management Development Institute (MDI), Gurgaon PGPM, PGP-HR, PGP-IM and NMP - 5th September - 20th October, 2011 30th August, 2011 Rs. 1600 CAT scores followed by GD and PI
International Management Institute (IMI) PGDM and PGDM-HR Delhi and Bhubaneshwar
18th November, 2011
CAT score, performance in 10th & 12th, work exp, GD, PI
Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH) PGDM (full time) & PGDM Insurance Business Mgt, Retail Mgt and Sustainable Development Mgt
30th September, 2011 31st December, 2011
Online Application- Rs. 1850
Offline Application- Rs. 1800
CAT 2011 scores, Write up, GD & PI
Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management (LBSIM) PGDM & PGDM Finance
25th August, 2011 27th November, 2011 Rs. 1675 CAT 2011 scores, GD & PI
Good Luck!
It is the time to baptize in preparation of the exams but it is extremely important to get all the updates and make sure that you won'lt miss out any important deadlines.
Through this column of information you'll be able to acquire all the important MBA exam dates and get the admission to your dream B-school.
Some Important exams and last date of the application submission date and examination date are mentioned below in the table:
Exams Application Deadline Date of the Exam
IIFT 2011 5th September, 2011, Monday 27th November, 2011, Sunday
CAT 2011 Voucher Sale – 26th September, 2011, Monday
Registration – 28th September, 2011, Wednesday 22nd October, 2011 - 18th November, 2011
NMAT 2012 Registration – 11th October, 2011, Tuesday
Late Registration – 20th October, 2011, Thursday 31st October, 2011- 18th November, 2011
IRMA 2011 30th September, 2011, Friday 13th November, 2011, Sunday
SNAP 2011 November 18th December, 2011, Sunday
The registration process for XAT 2012 and FMS 2011 are yet to start.
Application process of eminent B-schools in the country:
Institute Name Programs offered Location Admission Forms Availability Application Submission Date Application Fees Selection Process
Management Development Institute (MDI), Gurgaon PGPM, PGP-HR, PGP-IM and NMP - 5th September - 20th October, 2011 30th August, 2011 Rs. 1600 CAT scores followed by GD and PI
International Management Institute (IMI) PGDM and PGDM-HR Delhi and Bhubaneshwar
18th November, 2011
CAT score, performance in 10th & 12th, work exp, GD, PI
Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH) PGDM (full time) & PGDM Insurance Business Mgt, Retail Mgt and Sustainable Development Mgt
30th September, 2011 31st December, 2011
Online Application- Rs. 1850
Offline Application- Rs. 1800
CAT 2011 scores, Write up, GD & PI
Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management (LBSIM) PGDM & PGDM Finance
25th August, 2011 27th November, 2011 Rs. 1675 CAT 2011 scores, GD & PI
Good Luck!
IITs finally found their way in World's Top Varsities
Moment of Triumph for IITs!
Few days back IIT Fraternity were in dilemma when top 500 world rankings have been announced by the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU). IISc was the only institute from India which has made its prestigious place in the top 500 world rankings. It was a dark and stormy night and the rain fell in torrents for IITs but now it's a new morning with new hopes.
It's a moment of triumph for IITs as QS World university rankings have been announced and IITs have finally found their way in World's top varsities. Cambridge Univerity has topped the list and it has been declared as world's best varsities, followed by Harvard University and MIT ranked second and third. These QS World university rankings have a domination of US institutions, which took 13 of the top 20 places.
Five British universities in the top 20:
University Name Rank
Oxford University 5th
Imperial College, London 6th
UCL 7th
Edinburg 20th
Swiss Federal Institute of Technology 18th
Swiss Federal Institute of Technology is the only university in the top 20 which is not from the English speaking world
Ranking of other world universities
The highest ranking Asian universities are Hong Kong at 22, Tokyo at 25 and the National University of Singapore at 28. King Saud University, in Saudi Arabia, at 200 was the highest rated institution in the Arab world.
Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi was the highest ranked at 218th and followed by IIT Bombay at 225th place. It is the second year for Cambridge University when it has topped the list. IIT rankings in the QS world university rankings has boosted the morals of IITs all over again.
Fissure between Harvard and Cambridge was very minute, but Cambridge has made it place because of its student/faculty ratio. Individual attention is one of the key attractions of the Oxbridge tutorial system, said Ben Sowter, QS head of research.
He also said that, UK higher education is still better and cheaper than compared to many US universities, but other international institutions may offer better value for money. QS said that, Universities in the Netherlands, including Amsterdam University (63rd place) Utrecht (80) and Leiden (88), are all in the top 100 and offer English-language courses for less than £2,000 per year.
Few days back IIT Fraternity were in dilemma when top 500 world rankings have been announced by the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU). IISc was the only institute from India which has made its prestigious place in the top 500 world rankings. It was a dark and stormy night and the rain fell in torrents for IITs but now it's a new morning with new hopes.
It's a moment of triumph for IITs as QS World university rankings have been announced and IITs have finally found their way in World's top varsities. Cambridge Univerity has topped the list and it has been declared as world's best varsities, followed by Harvard University and MIT ranked second and third. These QS World university rankings have a domination of US institutions, which took 13 of the top 20 places.
Five British universities in the top 20:
University Name Rank
Oxford University 5th
Imperial College, London 6th
UCL 7th
Edinburg 20th
Swiss Federal Institute of Technology 18th
Swiss Federal Institute of Technology is the only university in the top 20 which is not from the English speaking world
Ranking of other world universities
The highest ranking Asian universities are Hong Kong at 22, Tokyo at 25 and the National University of Singapore at 28. King Saud University, in Saudi Arabia, at 200 was the highest rated institution in the Arab world.
Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi was the highest ranked at 218th and followed by IIT Bombay at 225th place. It is the second year for Cambridge University when it has topped the list. IIT rankings in the QS world university rankings has boosted the morals of IITs all over again.
Fissure between Harvard and Cambridge was very minute, but Cambridge has made it place because of its student/faculty ratio. Individual attention is one of the key attractions of the Oxbridge tutorial system, said Ben Sowter, QS head of research.
He also said that, UK higher education is still better and cheaper than compared to many US universities, but other international institutions may offer better value for money. QS said that, Universities in the Netherlands, including Amsterdam University (63rd place) Utrecht (80) and Leiden (88), are all in the top 100 and offer English-language courses for less than £2,000 per year.
CAT 2011 Workshop on Sept 24: Arun Sharma to talk on Mock tests
MBAUniverse.com will conduct a Special Workshop on CAT 2011 on Saturday, September 24, 2011 in New Delhi. The workshop will be held at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s Usha & Lakshmi Mittal Institute of Management (BULMIM), New Delhi. The timing is 2 pm to 4 pm. The key speaker at the workshop will be renowned CAT guru Arun Sharma.
If you are a CAT 2011 aspirant, this is a must attend Workshop for you as you will get the opportunity to listen to CAT guru Arun Sharma, who is the biggest name in the domain of CAT preparation.
The workshop will focus on preparation strategy, how to improve mock test score, analysis of new pattern of the exam, and the Do’s and Don’ts.
One of the key highlight of the workshop will be the analysis of the online mock test prepared by Arun Sharma, which you can take at MBAUniverse.com prior to attending the workshop. It is advised that you take the test before coming to the workshop.
You can take the mock test based on the new pattern of CAT at MBAUniverse.com in advance. This is a simulated mock test, developed by Arun Sharma which you can take for free at MBAUniverse.com. You can take the mock test by clicking at the following link:
http://www.mbauniverse.com/mock/mocktest/quizlogin_cat2011.php?section=quantquizarun
At the workshop you can interact with Arun Sharma and get detailed analysis of your test and get your doubts and queries clarified which you faced while taking the online mock test at MBAUniverse.com.
At the Workshop, you can also listen to the test taking experiences and know about life in a top B-School from the past years CAT toppers, who are now students of renowned B-schools like MDI Gurgaon, IMT Ghaziabad, IIFT New Delhi and FMS, University of Delhi etc and interact with them. MBAUniverse.com will also host Quiz Contest at the Workshop.
In order to take the online mock test and participate in the MBAUniverse.com Workshop on CAT 2011, you have to register yourself at MBAUniverse.com. To register, click on the following link:
http://www.mbauniverse.com/mock/mocktest/mockregistercat2011.php
If you are a CAT 2011 aspirant, this is a must attend Workshop for you as you will get the opportunity to listen to CAT guru Arun Sharma, who is the biggest name in the domain of CAT preparation.
The workshop will focus on preparation strategy, how to improve mock test score, analysis of new pattern of the exam, and the Do’s and Don’ts.
One of the key highlight of the workshop will be the analysis of the online mock test prepared by Arun Sharma, which you can take at MBAUniverse.com prior to attending the workshop. It is advised that you take the test before coming to the workshop.
You can take the mock test based on the new pattern of CAT at MBAUniverse.com in advance. This is a simulated mock test, developed by Arun Sharma which you can take for free at MBAUniverse.com. You can take the mock test by clicking at the following link:
http://www.mbauniverse.com/mock/mocktest/quizlogin_cat2011.php?section=quantquizarun
At the workshop you can interact with Arun Sharma and get detailed analysis of your test and get your doubts and queries clarified which you faced while taking the online mock test at MBAUniverse.com.
At the Workshop, you can also listen to the test taking experiences and know about life in a top B-School from the past years CAT toppers, who are now students of renowned B-schools like MDI Gurgaon, IMT Ghaziabad, IIFT New Delhi and FMS, University of Delhi etc and interact with them. MBAUniverse.com will also host Quiz Contest at the Workshop.
In order to take the online mock test and participate in the MBAUniverse.com Workshop on CAT 2011, you have to register yourself at MBAUniverse.com. To register, click on the following link:
http://www.mbauniverse.com/mock/mocktest/mockregistercat2011.php
CAT 2011: Toppers mantras for improving your hold on DI, LR
Following the footsteps of those who have attained success always helps. Similar is the case with the CAT toppers and CAT Exam aspirants. In the previous articles of MBAUniverse.com you have seen how to improve Quantitative Ability & Verbal Ability areas.
In this article, the CAT toppers share their strategy for excelling in the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning areas, which are merged with Quantitative Ability and Verbal Ability respectively in the new pattern of CAT 2011.
The CAT toppers who have shared their views on the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning preparation for CAT 2011 aspirants are Ankit Gupta, 99.34 percentiler taken admission in IIM Indore; Shipra Pandey, 94.89 percentiler, taken admission in MICA and Gaurav Swarnkar, 94.34 percentiler, taken admission in NITIE.
As far as these areas are concerned, they are more related to practice and your logical understanding. “Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning in CAT Exam are more related to IQ but still it can be managed,” Gupta says.
Strategy for CAT 2011 exam preparations
As is common among the CAT toppers, practice is the only strategy for excelling in these areas. According to Gupta, understanding the topics and practicing is the key. Pandey voiced similar advice. “I kept solving a lot of aptitude questions for my CAT Preparations,” she says.
According to Swarnkar, speedy calculation is the key to crack the Data Interpretation area. “For Data Interpretation, you should be very prompt with some results like - tables up to at least 20, squares of up to 30, cubes till 12, reciprocal ratios up to 1/25, and square roots and cube roots. This will solve 80 per cent of your DI problems; rest 20 per cent is application of your brain in understanding the problem,” Swarnkar mentions.
For preparations in Logical Reasoning also, Swarnkar feels that practice is the only key. “Logical Reasoning in CAT Exam is nothing but practice, a simple advice is DO NOT APPLY YOUR PERCEPTIONS while solving them. Just stick to the lines written in the question. Pen down every situation and condition given and stick to it till the end,” he says.
The common point between all the CAT toppers is that, practice is the key to success in this CAT Exam section. Be fluent and thorough with the concepts which you can gain through reading more news papers, especially the data given in various forms.
But the amount of practice will depend on your strength and weakness. For Gupta, his strongest section was Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning. So he took the least time to prepare for it. “I gave least time for preparation on Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning but everybody has a different set of strengths and weakness so I would like to advice that identify them and capitalize on your strengths and work on your weaknesses for your CAT Preparation,” Gupta says.
Strategy for CAT 2011 exam
Choosing the right question is the deciding factor for CAT Exam. According to Pandey, you should not waste much time on a question which you can't solve beyond five minutes. Data Interpretation is a matter of good choice as well as practice. Choosing the wrong caselets in the CAT 2011 exam can be dangerous but enough practice tells you which cases to go forward with and which traps to leave. “My suggestion is that even if you are stuck in a caselet for five minutes or so and then you realize that its a waste of time and you are not getting anywhere near solving it, it’s better to leave it rather than making it a prestige issue and solving it but leaving the rest of Data Interpretation and also missing out on other sections,” she says.
In this article, the CAT toppers share their strategy for excelling in the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning areas, which are merged with Quantitative Ability and Verbal Ability respectively in the new pattern of CAT 2011.
The CAT toppers who have shared their views on the Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning preparation for CAT 2011 aspirants are Ankit Gupta, 99.34 percentiler taken admission in IIM Indore; Shipra Pandey, 94.89 percentiler, taken admission in MICA and Gaurav Swarnkar, 94.34 percentiler, taken admission in NITIE.
As far as these areas are concerned, they are more related to practice and your logical understanding. “Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning in CAT Exam are more related to IQ but still it can be managed,” Gupta says.
Strategy for CAT 2011 exam preparations
As is common among the CAT toppers, practice is the only strategy for excelling in these areas. According to Gupta, understanding the topics and practicing is the key. Pandey voiced similar advice. “I kept solving a lot of aptitude questions for my CAT Preparations,” she says.
According to Swarnkar, speedy calculation is the key to crack the Data Interpretation area. “For Data Interpretation, you should be very prompt with some results like - tables up to at least 20, squares of up to 30, cubes till 12, reciprocal ratios up to 1/25, and square roots and cube roots. This will solve 80 per cent of your DI problems; rest 20 per cent is application of your brain in understanding the problem,” Swarnkar mentions.
For preparations in Logical Reasoning also, Swarnkar feels that practice is the only key. “Logical Reasoning in CAT Exam is nothing but practice, a simple advice is DO NOT APPLY YOUR PERCEPTIONS while solving them. Just stick to the lines written in the question. Pen down every situation and condition given and stick to it till the end,” he says.
The common point between all the CAT toppers is that, practice is the key to success in this CAT Exam section. Be fluent and thorough with the concepts which you can gain through reading more news papers, especially the data given in various forms.
But the amount of practice will depend on your strength and weakness. For Gupta, his strongest section was Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning. So he took the least time to prepare for it. “I gave least time for preparation on Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning but everybody has a different set of strengths and weakness so I would like to advice that identify them and capitalize on your strengths and work on your weaknesses for your CAT Preparation,” Gupta says.
Strategy for CAT 2011 exam
Choosing the right question is the deciding factor for CAT Exam. According to Pandey, you should not waste much time on a question which you can't solve beyond five minutes. Data Interpretation is a matter of good choice as well as practice. Choosing the wrong caselets in the CAT 2011 exam can be dangerous but enough practice tells you which cases to go forward with and which traps to leave. “My suggestion is that even if you are stuck in a caselet for five minutes or so and then you realize that its a waste of time and you are not getting anywhere near solving it, it’s better to leave it rather than making it a prestige issue and solving it but leaving the rest of Data Interpretation and also missing out on other sections,” she says.
Improve your test taking skills to increase scores: CL Academic Head at Live Chat
As the CAT 2011 exam is approaching, the aspirants are getting more and more worked up regarding the preparation pattern. In this last lap of preparation, the main aim is to improve the scores of the mock tests so that they can get a good score in the actual CAT 2011 exam. To guide the students on improving the scores, MBAUniverse.com is continuing with the series of Live Expert Chats on the topic ‘how to improve your mock scores for CAT 2011’. The last AskMBAUniverse.com Live Expert Chat was held on September 16, 2011 with Abhishek Gupta, Senior Manager, Academic Team, Career Launcher.
Read on the excerpts of the Live Expert Chat.
Q: Sid: I am unable to score more than 80 percentile in CAT and loosing all my hopes on CAT. At times I think of concentrating on SNAP, XAT and MAH CET then CAT or take CAT again next year. How to improve in one month?
A: Even SNAP, XAT and MAH-CET aren't going to easy. CAT is your best chance of making it to top B-School. Analyze the tests taken by you thoroughly and find where you missed out. Most of the times, it's not the subject knowledge but the test-taking sills that make a difference.
Q: Aparna: My percentile in mocks keeps varying from 80, 90, 84 and 88. I want to get over 95 percentile. Please help me!
A: Have you analyzed the tests taken by you? Analysis doesn't mean just looking at the explanatory solutions. Try to find if you have done optimally in the mocks. Optimal performance means doing your level best. See if you are missing on some topic repeatedly, or regularly miss sitters etc.
Q: Rohan: How often should I take mock tests? How and what is the parameter to analyze my performance in test?
A: You shouldn't take more than three to four full-length mocks in a week. Analysis of the mocks is more important. Take the next mock only when you have analyzed the previous one very thoroughly and learnt your lessons through it. You should ensure that you don't repeat the same mistakes again.
Q: Samudra Sen: Sir, as only 35+ days are left, which type of mocks would you suggest me to take, sectional or full length mock test?
A: Ideally, full-length tests now. Take sectional tests if you think one of the two sections has got a major problem and needs more attention than the other.
Q: Anand Kumar: Sir which will be the right day to take CAT 2011 exam? Is it preferred to take during the first, middle or end sessions? Also, which time would be better, morning or afternoon slot?
A: Doesn't make any difference. Take it whenever you are most comfortable and have no obligations - social or others - during that one week around the test.
Q: Venu: I have been getting almost 85 to 90 percentile in Career Launcher Mock tests. What are my chances in CAT 2011? Does this score reflect in final day exam? Please give suggestion.
A: You generally tend to score more in CAT than what you get in mocks, provided you don't do anything too different on the D-day. At your percentile, you definitely stand a chance for good B-schools, though not the best ones. There is still some time left, work harder.
Q: Khushbu Sudhir: Sir I'm taking CAT in 54 days & have 45 days for IRMA. I haven't completed Quant syllabus yet. What r my chances? What should be my strategies? Shall I drop this year & take it next year?
A: Start working harder. Quant syllabus won’t take more than 15 days if you are prepared to slog it out. Even if you are planning to take it next year, why not take it this year as well. You don't stand to lose anything apart from a few thousand rupees.
Q: Manisha: I'm doing self preparation for CAT. Please suggest me strategy for this last lap. I'm almost done with Quant, Verbal & DILR. I haven't taken any mocks yet.
A: You answered it yourself. Start taking the Mocks. Take at least 10 to 15 tests before the actual one.
Q: Amaresh Nayak: What should I do to improve my CAT percentile? I haven't joined any coaching. I will join test series. How many mocks shall I take?
A: Join a test series, take at least 10 to 15 tests, analyze each test thoroughly, ensure that you don't repeat your mistakes in the next mock, and improve with every mock to peak at the actual exam.
Q: Manasa Priya: Sir my English knowledge is good but somehow I can't score well in VA. There are many questions which I mark wrong. What should I do to enhance my score?
A: Try and find out what's going wrong with the answers if you think your language skills are okay. Analyze the wrong answers, and don't repeat the same mistakes again. I don't see a reason for you to do poorly every time despite having good language skills.
Q: Suprita Venkatesh: Sir my Quant & DI section is very weak. What shall I do? What should be the strategy to attempt questions?
A: Practice, practice and practice! Develop the art of picking the easier questions from the section. There are enough sitters in the section to give you a decent score despite limited ability.
Q: Preet: Sir my graduation marks is 48 per cent and I belong to OBC category. Am I eligible to take CAT?
A: I am afraid you are not. The cut-off for OBC is same as that for General Category i.e. 50 per cent. Check www.catiim.in for details.
Q: Ganesh: Hello sir. I have completed my 12th in Commerce stream with 84 per cent and I want to do MBA in finance. Can you please suggest me what type of preparation should I start from now so that I can get a good score in CAT?
A: I will suggest just two things at this stage. Do them religiously. 1. Read a lot on diversified subjects. 2. Start loving puzzle-solving. All the best!
Q: Triveni: I completed B. Tech this year with 84 per cent. I want to work for a year and then take CAT. I haven't started any preparation yet. My aim is to join IIMs. Is work ex of one year sufficient?
A: IIMs take freshers as well. So one year that way is not a problem. Start preparing.
Q: Pavan Kumar: Sir I'm doing my B. Tech final year. In my previous semesters I had backlogs and I cleared them. If I get a call from IIMs will there be any problem to my selection due to my backlogs?
A: You may have to answer some very uncomfortable questions about the backlogs. But they can always be prepared in advance. They won't reject you because of your backlogs, but it will need some special answers.
Read on the excerpts of the Live Expert Chat.
Q: Sid: I am unable to score more than 80 percentile in CAT and loosing all my hopes on CAT. At times I think of concentrating on SNAP, XAT and MAH CET then CAT or take CAT again next year. How to improve in one month?
A: Even SNAP, XAT and MAH-CET aren't going to easy. CAT is your best chance of making it to top B-School. Analyze the tests taken by you thoroughly and find where you missed out. Most of the times, it's not the subject knowledge but the test-taking sills that make a difference.
Q: Aparna: My percentile in mocks keeps varying from 80, 90, 84 and 88. I want to get over 95 percentile. Please help me!
A: Have you analyzed the tests taken by you? Analysis doesn't mean just looking at the explanatory solutions. Try to find if you have done optimally in the mocks. Optimal performance means doing your level best. See if you are missing on some topic repeatedly, or regularly miss sitters etc.
Q: Rohan: How often should I take mock tests? How and what is the parameter to analyze my performance in test?
A: You shouldn't take more than three to four full-length mocks in a week. Analysis of the mocks is more important. Take the next mock only when you have analyzed the previous one very thoroughly and learnt your lessons through it. You should ensure that you don't repeat the same mistakes again.
Q: Samudra Sen: Sir, as only 35+ days are left, which type of mocks would you suggest me to take, sectional or full length mock test?
A: Ideally, full-length tests now. Take sectional tests if you think one of the two sections has got a major problem and needs more attention than the other.
Q: Anand Kumar: Sir which will be the right day to take CAT 2011 exam? Is it preferred to take during the first, middle or end sessions? Also, which time would be better, morning or afternoon slot?
A: Doesn't make any difference. Take it whenever you are most comfortable and have no obligations - social or others - during that one week around the test.
Q: Venu: I have been getting almost 85 to 90 percentile in Career Launcher Mock tests. What are my chances in CAT 2011? Does this score reflect in final day exam? Please give suggestion.
A: You generally tend to score more in CAT than what you get in mocks, provided you don't do anything too different on the D-day. At your percentile, you definitely stand a chance for good B-schools, though not the best ones. There is still some time left, work harder.
Q: Khushbu Sudhir: Sir I'm taking CAT in 54 days & have 45 days for IRMA. I haven't completed Quant syllabus yet. What r my chances? What should be my strategies? Shall I drop this year & take it next year?
A: Start working harder. Quant syllabus won’t take more than 15 days if you are prepared to slog it out. Even if you are planning to take it next year, why not take it this year as well. You don't stand to lose anything apart from a few thousand rupees.
Q: Manisha: I'm doing self preparation for CAT. Please suggest me strategy for this last lap. I'm almost done with Quant, Verbal & DILR. I haven't taken any mocks yet.
A: You answered it yourself. Start taking the Mocks. Take at least 10 to 15 tests before the actual one.
Q: Amaresh Nayak: What should I do to improve my CAT percentile? I haven't joined any coaching. I will join test series. How many mocks shall I take?
A: Join a test series, take at least 10 to 15 tests, analyze each test thoroughly, ensure that you don't repeat your mistakes in the next mock, and improve with every mock to peak at the actual exam.
Q: Manasa Priya: Sir my English knowledge is good but somehow I can't score well in VA. There are many questions which I mark wrong. What should I do to enhance my score?
A: Try and find out what's going wrong with the answers if you think your language skills are okay. Analyze the wrong answers, and don't repeat the same mistakes again. I don't see a reason for you to do poorly every time despite having good language skills.
Q: Suprita Venkatesh: Sir my Quant & DI section is very weak. What shall I do? What should be the strategy to attempt questions?
A: Practice, practice and practice! Develop the art of picking the easier questions from the section. There are enough sitters in the section to give you a decent score despite limited ability.
Q: Preet: Sir my graduation marks is 48 per cent and I belong to OBC category. Am I eligible to take CAT?
A: I am afraid you are not. The cut-off for OBC is same as that for General Category i.e. 50 per cent. Check www.catiim.in for details.
Q: Ganesh: Hello sir. I have completed my 12th in Commerce stream with 84 per cent and I want to do MBA in finance. Can you please suggest me what type of preparation should I start from now so that I can get a good score in CAT?
A: I will suggest just two things at this stage. Do them religiously. 1. Read a lot on diversified subjects. 2. Start loving puzzle-solving. All the best!
Q: Triveni: I completed B. Tech this year with 84 per cent. I want to work for a year and then take CAT. I haven't started any preparation yet. My aim is to join IIMs. Is work ex of one year sufficient?
A: IIMs take freshers as well. So one year that way is not a problem. Start preparing.
Q: Pavan Kumar: Sir I'm doing my B. Tech final year. In my previous semesters I had backlogs and I cleared them. If I get a call from IIMs will there be any problem to my selection due to my backlogs?
A: You may have to answer some very uncomfortable questions about the backlogs. But they can always be prepared in advance. They won't reject you because of your backlogs, but it will need some special answers.
MAT December 2011 to be held in Dec 4 - Dec 10 for computer based exam: AIMA
The All India Management Association (AIMA) has announced the dates for the Management Aptitude Test (MAT) of December 2011, the fourth MAT exam of the year. The paper pencil based MAT will take place on Sunday, December 4, 2011. The computer based test will be held from Saturday, December 10, 2011 onwards.
Candidates can choose to take the test in either computer based or paper pencil based format. The 2.5 hour test will take place from 10:00 am to 12.30 pm for the paper pencil based test. The computer based test will take place in different time slots.
The sale of MAT December 2011 application forms will begin from Saturday, October 1, 2011.
Application Process
Candidates who wish to apply should be graduates or in the final year of their graduation. The last date for sale of Application Forms is Saturday, November12, 2011. The last date to submit the filled up application forms is Tuesday, November 15, 2011.
The forms can be obtained from select branches of Bank of Baroda, Axis Bank with application fee of Rs. 1,200 or from Study Centers of AIMA with application fee of Rs. 1,050. Online application can also be done by visiting www.aima-ind.org/matdec11.
The candidates have to obtain their Admit Cards seven days prior to their tests, with effect from Saturday, November 26, 2011. Registered candidates can download their Admit Cards from the AIMA website, http://www.aima-ind.org/mat_centre.aspx.
AIMA will announce the list of Test Centers and the participating B-schools by Saturday, October 1, 2011, the day when the sale of forms will begin.
Candidates can choose to take the test in either computer based or paper pencil based format. The 2.5 hour test will take place from 10:00 am to 12.30 pm for the paper pencil based test. The computer based test will take place in different time slots.
The sale of MAT December 2011 application forms will begin from Saturday, October 1, 2011.
Application Process
Candidates who wish to apply should be graduates or in the final year of their graduation. The last date for sale of Application Forms is Saturday, November12, 2011. The last date to submit the filled up application forms is Tuesday, November 15, 2011.
The forms can be obtained from select branches of Bank of Baroda, Axis Bank with application fee of Rs. 1,200 or from Study Centers of AIMA with application fee of Rs. 1,050. Online application can also be done by visiting www.aima-ind.org/matdec11.
The candidates have to obtain their Admit Cards seven days prior to their tests, with effect from Saturday, November 26, 2011. Registered candidates can download their Admit Cards from the AIMA website, http://www.aima-ind.org/mat_centre.aspx.
AIMA will announce the list of Test Centers and the participating B-schools by Saturday, October 1, 2011, the day when the sale of forms will begin.
Tips for International Students Applying to Schools in the US
Some tips for international students to keep in mind and how are they evaluated compared to U.S. students
1. Three things matter for U.S.-aspiring international students.
Steve Loflin, founder and CEO, National Society of Collegiate Scholars
Extracurricular activities matter more than you think. U.S. colleges look for well-rounded students and grades are not enough. Showcase anything you've done outside of classes, from volunteering to work part time, or playing an instrument.
SAT scores matter. Unless you studied an internationally recognized curriculum, odds are that universities will have a hard time interpreting what your transcripts mean. Whether they admit it or not, schools will use the SATs to evaluate whether you have the academic chops to be at that school.
Finally, do well on the TOEFL or IELTS exams. International students' English-speaking abilities are scrutinized because it affects how well you can participate in class and keep up with the work. Universities want to know that you are an advanced English speaker.
2. It's a tough ball game for international students.
Michele Hernandez, president and founder, HernandezCollegeConsulting.com and ApplicationBootCamp.com
International students need to realize that they can't simply look at overall admissions stats to determine their odds because most schools limit the international student population to 10 percent of the overall class. Even though colleges don't admit to quotas, these numbers don't vary much year to year, so they are what I would call virtual quotas. If you look at a school that has a 20 percent overall admissions rate, the admit rate for international students is likely to be closer to 5 percent-not to mention the fact that international students compete with other international students from 80-plus different countries, plus their own country. Schools might receive 300 applicants from China and then accept two or three!
Therefore, students should focus on lesser-known "name brand" schools that all international students apply to, schools that don't receive as many applications from international students. Rural schools for instance or schools outside the Northeast tend to get fewer applicants from international students. Study the U.S.News & World Report list of top National Liberal Arts Colleges and focus on those more than just the Harvard University/Yale University/Princeton University-level schools that have super low acceptance rates.
3. Global is in: It's a good time for international students.
James Montoya, vice president of higher education, The College Board
The number of students crossing national borders to pursue higher education will likely triple in the next decade. The good news is that many American colleges and universities have recently expanded their international recruitment efforts, especially for "full-pay" students. International students who will require institutionally based financial aid should not waste their time applying to those colleges and universities not offering financial aid to international students.
Since colleges and universities seek international students who will contribute both inside and outside the classroom, applicants should definitely highlight in their admission applications what they will bring to the campus academically, culturally, and socially.
4. Applying to U.S. colleges means global competition
Katherine Cohen, founder and CEO, IvyWise and ApplyWise.com
Here are some tips to help you stand out among a highly competitive global applicant pool:
-Emphasize your diverse background. Colleges like the perspective multinational or
multicultural students bring to the classroom.
-Highlight what makes you different from other students at your school and explain why you
have a desire to study in America.
-Looking for a liberal arts education? Demonstrate an understanding of what that type of
education means in America. It can differ from more vertical, professionally oriented college
curriculum that may be offered at the universities in your home country.
-Don't need financial aid? Tell the college! It's much more difficult for international students
who need financial assistance to get accepted.
-Take a practice ACT and SAT to see which test is right for you. Our international students
have performed better on the ACT in many cases.
Also, don't just apply to a school because of its name. Visit the schools to which you plan to apply, in person or virtually, and make sure you can see yourself spending the next four years there.(Find the right school for you)
5. Know each university's specific requirements
Stacey Kostell, director of admissions, University of Illinois-Urbana-Champaign
Education in the United States is not centralized nationally as it is in many countries, so it's important to note that admission requirements will vary greatly from one university to another. Your academic credentials will be evaluated differently by different universities. Be sure you understand those differences.
In order to maximize your chances for admission, it is a good idea to complete a program of study that qualifies you for admission to selective universities in your home country. As an international student, you may have admission requirements in addition to those for national students, including proof of English proficiency.
1. Three things matter for U.S.-aspiring international students.
Steve Loflin, founder and CEO, National Society of Collegiate Scholars
Extracurricular activities matter more than you think. U.S. colleges look for well-rounded students and grades are not enough. Showcase anything you've done outside of classes, from volunteering to work part time, or playing an instrument.
SAT scores matter. Unless you studied an internationally recognized curriculum, odds are that universities will have a hard time interpreting what your transcripts mean. Whether they admit it or not, schools will use the SATs to evaluate whether you have the academic chops to be at that school.
Finally, do well on the TOEFL or IELTS exams. International students' English-speaking abilities are scrutinized because it affects how well you can participate in class and keep up with the work. Universities want to know that you are an advanced English speaker.
2. It's a tough ball game for international students.
Michele Hernandez, president and founder, HernandezCollegeConsulting.com and ApplicationBootCamp.com
International students need to realize that they can't simply look at overall admissions stats to determine their odds because most schools limit the international student population to 10 percent of the overall class. Even though colleges don't admit to quotas, these numbers don't vary much year to year, so they are what I would call virtual quotas. If you look at a school that has a 20 percent overall admissions rate, the admit rate for international students is likely to be closer to 5 percent-not to mention the fact that international students compete with other international students from 80-plus different countries, plus their own country. Schools might receive 300 applicants from China and then accept two or three!
Therefore, students should focus on lesser-known "name brand" schools that all international students apply to, schools that don't receive as many applications from international students. Rural schools for instance or schools outside the Northeast tend to get fewer applicants from international students. Study the U.S.News & World Report list of top National Liberal Arts Colleges and focus on those more than just the Harvard University/Yale University/Princeton University-level schools that have super low acceptance rates.
3. Global is in: It's a good time for international students.
James Montoya, vice president of higher education, The College Board
The number of students crossing national borders to pursue higher education will likely triple in the next decade. The good news is that many American colleges and universities have recently expanded their international recruitment efforts, especially for "full-pay" students. International students who will require institutionally based financial aid should not waste their time applying to those colleges and universities not offering financial aid to international students.
Since colleges and universities seek international students who will contribute both inside and outside the classroom, applicants should definitely highlight in their admission applications what they will bring to the campus academically, culturally, and socially.
4. Applying to U.S. colleges means global competition
Katherine Cohen, founder and CEO, IvyWise and ApplyWise.com
Here are some tips to help you stand out among a highly competitive global applicant pool:
-Emphasize your diverse background. Colleges like the perspective multinational or
multicultural students bring to the classroom.
-Highlight what makes you different from other students at your school and explain why you
have a desire to study in America.
-Looking for a liberal arts education? Demonstrate an understanding of what that type of
education means in America. It can differ from more vertical, professionally oriented college
curriculum that may be offered at the universities in your home country.
-Don't need financial aid? Tell the college! It's much more difficult for international students
who need financial assistance to get accepted.
-Take a practice ACT and SAT to see which test is right for you. Our international students
have performed better on the ACT in many cases.
Also, don't just apply to a school because of its name. Visit the schools to which you plan to apply, in person or virtually, and make sure you can see yourself spending the next four years there.(Find the right school for you)
5. Know each university's specific requirements
Stacey Kostell, director of admissions, University of Illinois-Urbana-Champaign
Education in the United States is not centralized nationally as it is in many countries, so it's important to note that admission requirements will vary greatly from one university to another. Your academic credentials will be evaluated differently by different universities. Be sure you understand those differences.
In order to maximize your chances for admission, it is a good idea to complete a program of study that qualifies you for admission to selective universities in your home country. As an international student, you may have admission requirements in addition to those for national students, including proof of English proficiency.
IT Giants to recruit 2.5 lakh engineering students this year
IT giants have kick-started their campus recruitment process with a bang and plan to recruit nearly 2.5 lakh engineering graduates from across the country's campuses this year. This means IT students will see ample job offers with handsome salaries from biggest technical companies of the country.
Last year, around 2 lakh engineering students were recruited during campus placements. Campus recruitment, which usually happens in the last semester, has been advanced to the seventh semester this year. Hence, IT companies have sent their HR teams to the campus to recruit the best talent.
Cognizant, a highly reputed IT company, has offered jobs to 807 students of Anna University's Guindy campus, Chennai, 703 to students from PSG College in Coimbatore and 500 students of Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi.. Similarly, TCS has issued offer letters to 702 students of Thiagarajar College of Engineering in Madurai, 515 students of Velammal Group of institutions, 500 of Sairam Group of Colleges and 645 of RMK Group of Institutions, all in Tamil Nadu.
Though the number of job offers to students has increased, pay packages offered by companies will, however, remain at last year level of Rs 3 lakh to Rs 3.25 lakh a year for these engineers.
As far as supply of the engineering students is concerned, states from south India are at forefront. Andhra Pradesh leads the supply side of students with nearly 2 lakh a year, followed by Tamil Nadu with a 1.8 lakh students. Karnataka and Maharashtra supply about 80,000 students a year to the job pool.
However, institutes across India are heaving a sigh of relief as they were expecting that US debt issue might impact placements. Speaking to The Times of India about this, Sivagnana Prabhu, head of training and corporate affairs, RMK Group of Institutions, says, "When we saw the situation created by the US debt deal we thought it would impact placements. But it has not reflected in the placements in our college. It has been better than last year, with 642 students being recruited this year while TCS absorbed 477 of our students in 2010."
The interest the IT companies are showing interest in hiring freshers has impressed NASSCOM. Officials from NASSCOM say that smaller and niche IT companies like Thoughtworks, muSigma, Robert Bosch have also joined the campus placements this year.
Last year, around 2 lakh engineering students were recruited during campus placements. Campus recruitment, which usually happens in the last semester, has been advanced to the seventh semester this year. Hence, IT companies have sent their HR teams to the campus to recruit the best talent.
Cognizant, a highly reputed IT company, has offered jobs to 807 students of Anna University's Guindy campus, Chennai, 703 to students from PSG College in Coimbatore and 500 students of Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi.. Similarly, TCS has issued offer letters to 702 students of Thiagarajar College of Engineering in Madurai, 515 students of Velammal Group of institutions, 500 of Sairam Group of Colleges and 645 of RMK Group of Institutions, all in Tamil Nadu.
Though the number of job offers to students has increased, pay packages offered by companies will, however, remain at last year level of Rs 3 lakh to Rs 3.25 lakh a year for these engineers.
As far as supply of the engineering students is concerned, states from south India are at forefront. Andhra Pradesh leads the supply side of students with nearly 2 lakh a year, followed by Tamil Nadu with a 1.8 lakh students. Karnataka and Maharashtra supply about 80,000 students a year to the job pool.
However, institutes across India are heaving a sigh of relief as they were expecting that US debt issue might impact placements. Speaking to The Times of India about this, Sivagnana Prabhu, head of training and corporate affairs, RMK Group of Institutions, says, "When we saw the situation created by the US debt deal we thought it would impact placements. But it has not reflected in the placements in our college. It has been better than last year, with 642 students being recruited this year while TCS absorbed 477 of our students in 2010."
The interest the IT companies are showing interest in hiring freshers has impressed NASSCOM. Officials from NASSCOM say that smaller and niche IT companies like Thoughtworks, muSigma, Robert Bosch have also joined the campus placements this year.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
IIM Bangalore placements 2011: ICICI, Deloitte, McKinsey largest recruiters
IIM Bangalore placements 2011: ICICI, Deloitte, McKinsey largest recruiters
The Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Bangalore completed final placements for its PGP batch of 2009-11 with 461 offers from 135 companies. ICICI Bank recruited the most with 19 offers followed by Deloitte Consulting and McKinsey & Co who made 17 and 12 offers respectively.
The PGP 2009-11 batch strength was 348, of which 16 students deferred their placements with the stated intentions of starting their own businesses.
Total number of students 348
Opt-outs 16
Students who appeared for placements 332
Number of companies that made offers 135
Total number of offers 461
Average offers per student 1.39
Final placements 230
Lateral offers 147
PPOs 84
Domestic offers 387
International offers 74
Finance and consulting companies recruited the largest number of students.
The top 5 recruiters left with almost one-fifth of the batch.
Top 5 Recruiters Offers Made Offers Accepted
ICICI Bank 19 19
Deloitte Consulting 17 14
McKinsey & Co. 12 11
Yes Bank 11 11
Infosys Consulting 12 7
Finance
Investment banking roles contributed to 20% of the offers while Private Equity, Venture Capital, Private & Wholesale Banking, Treasury, M&A and others contributed to the remaining 16% offers from Finance. Goldman Sachs made 7 offers across investment banking and securities divisions. Barclays Capital, Citi Global, Deutsche Bank, HSBC Global, BofA-Merill Lynch, Morgan Stanley made offers in the investment banking division for Mumbai, Hong Kong and Singapore locations. UBS recruited students for three desks across Asia-Pacific locations. A Europe-based Bank offered an associate position in the Netherlands. Olam International offered Commodities Derivatives Trading profile to five students for the Singapore location. Companies that had recruited by making pre-placement-offers were Barclays Capital (Hong Kong), Citi Group, Deutsche Bank (London), HSBC Global, JP Morgan, Bank of America-Merrill Lynch, Nomura, Royal Bank of Scotland, Rothschild and Standard Chartered Global across New York, London, Hong Kong and Singapore locations. Morgan Stanley (Hong Kong) offered an associate position to one student. Private Equity firm Blackstone Group recruited one student for their Real Estate Fund. Chrys Capital and o3 Capital too recruited from IIM Bangalore. A venture capital fund picked up one student.
Other recruiters from the finance sector were American Express, Anand Rathi, Allegro Advisors, Avendus Capital, Axis Bank, BNP Paribas, Capital One, Citi Bank, Edelweiss, HSBC, ICICI Prudential, India Infoline, JM Financial, Kotak Wealth, Standard Chartered and Yes Bank.
Consulting
AT Kearney (9 offers), Boston Consulting Group (7 offers), Bain & Co (7 offers) and McKinsey & Co (12 offers based out of India, Sydney and Brussels) were the largest recruiters. Arthur D Little and Oliver Wyman made offers for New York, London and Dubai locations. Some of the other consulting firms that recruited at IIMB were Accenture, Alvarez & Marsal, Booz & Co, Deloitte, Ernst & Young, EXL Services, Infosys Consulting, KPMG, PwC, and Siemens Management Consulting.
Sales & Marketing
Hindustan Unilever (5 offers) and Procter & Gamble (9 offers) were the largest sales/marketing recruiters and offered positions for marketing profiles in India and Singapore. Some of the other recruiters from this sector were Aircel, Airtel, Asian Paints, Aviva, BMGI, Britannia, Diageo, ITC, Johnson & Johnson, Marico, Nokia, Philips and Videocon. Myntra offered the role of Executive Assistant to the Founder while Comviva recruited one student for the role of Chief of Staff.
General Management & others
Around 7% of the offers came from the General Management sector while the remaining 6% of the offers came in the form of Operations & Product Management roles. Aditya Birla Group made offers to 7 students. Some of the other major recruiters in this sector were Essar, Hinduja, Mahindra & Mahindra, Lodha group, Reliance Industries and Tata Administrative Services. Ingersoll Rand offered the ‘Entrepreneurial Management Programme” to 3 students at IIM Bangalore. Narayana Hrudayalaya, a multispecialty hospital, visited campus for the second consecutive year and offered Vice President positions to four students. Global e-Procure recruited three students for supply chain consulting profile.
HCL, Intelenet, McAfee, Microsoft and NetApp offered Product Management profiles. Some of the other firms that participated in the recruitment process were Amazon, Heidrick & Struggles, DPDHL (Singapore), Google, ITW, Jindal Steel & Power Ltd, MTS, SunEdison, TVS Logistics and ZS Associates.
Overseas placements
A total of 74 international offers were made, of which 54 were accepted. The most number of international offers came for jobs based out of Singapore, Hong Kong and London, primarily from Finance companies.
Lateral placements
Those with more than 22 months of fulltime work experience were eligible to participate in lateral placement process. More than 50 companies visited IIM Bangalore as part of the lateral recruitment programme. The total number of offers made during lateral placements was 147 out of which 73 offers were eventually accepted. Management consulting was the biggest recruiter with close to 55% offers coming from this sector. Deloitte Consulting with 13 offers and Infosys Consulting with 12 offers were the biggest recruiters in this sector. Other major recruiters were Accenture Management Consulting, Ernst & Young, PwC, Heidrick & Struggles (Singapore), Cognizant, Wipro, ZS Associates, Siemens Management Consulting and DPDHL (Singapore). Around 15% of the offers were General Management profiles. Aditya Birla Group was the biggest recruiter with 7 offers. Some of the other recruiters from this sector were the Hinduja Group, Adani Group, Reliance Industries, Schneider Electric and Mphasis. Close to 10% of the offers came from the finance sector. Yes Bank made a total of 7 offers across Investment Banking, Risk Management, M&A and Treasury. Private equity fund ChrysCapital recruited 2 students for associate positions. The biggest highlight was a Europe-based bank (name undisclosed) which recruited an IIM Bangalore student for an associate position based out of Netherlands. Rest of the offers came from Sales & Marketing, Operations and Product Management sectors. Some of the firms from these sectors were Philips, Microsoft, McAfee, Google, HCL, InfoEdge, Indus Valley Partners, SunEdison, MTS, Mindtree, Unisys, Infotech, Jindal Steel, Intelenet, NetApp and Technopak.
Acceptance of offers
The ratio of offers accepted to offers made was the lowest during lateral placements. Whereas more than 87% of offers made during the final placements were accepted.
With 65% of the lateral jobs comprising Consulting and Finance offers and acceptance rates for consulting and finance PPOs being as high as 80%, it is clear that recruitment decisions for the most plum finance and consulting jobs are preordained in favour of people with work experience, strong academics or both. Those getting PPOs from these companies would have gotten a summer internship largely on the basis of their pre-MBA profiles.
Another interesting statistic shared by IIM Bangalore shows that acceptance ratios for different types of offers have been falling since the economy improved after the 2008 recession. While in 2009 students accepted whatever offers that came their way, students are now becoming pickier.
This year, IIM Bangalore students have rejected the maximum proportion of overseas offers in 5 years. The interest in PPOs too has fallen by a third since 2009 and nearly two-third of students who interned in sales and marketing, general management and operations profiles have rejected their PPOs in favour of a likely better offer during final or lateral placements.
It is likely that b-schools in the same grade too would be following similar trends.
Salary data for IIM Bangalore placements is unavailable as the institute has maintained a no-salary-disclosure policy since 2006.
Tips to help you ace IIT-JEE
Tips to help you ace IIT-JEE
The syllabus of Class 11 & 12 contributes about 45% and 55% of IIT-JEE question papers respectively. When you are preparing all the chapters of Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics, stress may be given, in particular, on the following topics.
Mathematics: Quadratic Equat-ions & Expressions, Complex Numbers, Probability, Vectors, Matrices in Algebra; Circle, Parabola, Hyperbola in Coordinate Geometry; Functions, Limits, Continuity and Differentiability, Application of Derivatives, Definite Integral in Calculus.
Physics: Mechanics, Fluids, Heat & Thermodynamics, Waves and Sound, Capacitors & Electrostatics, Magnetics, Electromagnetic Induction, Optics and Modern Physics.
Chemistry: Qualitative Analysis, Coordination Chemistry & Chemical Bonding in Inorganic Chemistry, Electrochemistry, Chemical Equilibrium in Physical Chemistry and Organic Chemistry complete as a topic.
Planning is the key The way to prepare and deal with the study pressure is proper planning and its implementation.
* Divide the time available on the three subjects.
* Further detail out the chapter-wise, topic-wise time schedule.
* Make summary notes/points to remember of all the concepts topic/chapter-wise and flag the questions with twist, intermingling of concepts requiring analytical skills. This will help in quick revision, a couple of days before or even on the eve of the examination.
The right approach
Students, who have to simultaneously prepare for XII board and IIT-JEE, should start concentrating on Class XII and corresponding IIT-JEE chapters around 21 days before board examination. However, the flame should be kept burning even for Class XI chapters by way of revision till start of board examinations. After the board examinations, focused and concentrated revision of both Class XI & XII subjects will have to be undertaken.
The right approach for those appearing first time or second (last) time is to stick to one source and not to refer to multitude of books/study material available in the market. For example it is sufficient to go through study-packages, IIT-JEE Archives, Review-packages, Work-books, Grand Masters Package/Equivalent, AITS/AIITS series etc., supplied by FIITJEE if the student is enrolled in any of its programmes. To reap benefits, the students, throughout preparation period, should remain focused with a positive attitude to study with utmost concentration. It is quality of time spent and not the quantity alone. A short break of 5 to 10 minutes every one to one-and-a-half hours of serious study is advisable. Total relaxation during the break will supposedly charge the batteries for another intensive spell of serious study.
Don't miss! Searchable database to find an engineering college
Pattern of papers
There will be two three-hour combined papers (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) to test the aptitude, comprehension and analytical ability of the students. Expected pattern in 2010 is a suitable mix of various types under 2006 to 2009 (view table below).
Importance of practice sessions
To keep focused for better results, the student should strictly follow a well-planned time schedule. During practice sessions speed in working out the questions should be developed. This is a natural byproduct if the student has attempted questions from basic principles in the initial stages. However, it is never too late to practise it. This strategy of solving questions from fundamentals will induce in the student a parallel thinking process so very necessary to increase and master analytical skills with conceptual understanding. The proof of pudding is in the eating. Progress made must be checked by solving Quizzes/Mock Test Papers on a regular basis. The student should aim at 100% hit rate i.e. all attempted questions are correct. This will ensure a competitive edge over others who will be left behind due to negative marking. Speed and accuracy will also allow finishing the papers ahead of time, leaving some time for revision.
Keep mind and body fit
Asanas, Pranayama and Meditation (in that order) every day in the morning and/or evening will help to develop inner calm and power of concentration needed for success. This will ultimately be of immense help on the D-day. Minimum 5 to 6 hours of sleep daily is necessary to keep the mind and body fit.
Smart tip: Understand application of concepts and analytical skills vis-à-vis mechanical/ blind application of formulae/theory.
Facing the exam
The strategy in the examination hall will be to keep cool, to have faith and to harness the examination temperament built during planned preparation. It is advisable to reach the examination centre at least 20 minutes early. A few deep breaths will ward off nervousness. Instructions given in the question papers should be read and followed very carefully. The student should not spend more than 45 minutes on any of the subjects in the first attempt.
He should fix priorities after a concentrated quick reading of the paper and start answering with the question he knows best and move progressively to ones in ascending order of difficulty. Questions with no negative marks must be attempted. The 45-minute cycle should be repeated for the other two subjects. Thereafter the student should come back to the three sections for attempting left out questions, conceptually with well-reasoned logic and for over all revision during the last 45 minutes. Even if some segment/section appears to be tough, one should keep cool since it is the relative performance which will count and hence the student should put-in his best.
Remain positive
IIT-JEE exam tests understanding in application of concepts and analytical skills vis-à-vis mechanical/blind application of formulae/theory. Temporary set-backs or poor performance during practice in some Quiz or Mock Test Paper should not discourage and the student should march onwards with greater and greater will and determination. The success in the IIT-JEE examination is directly proportional to the number of problems solved independently
and preferably by more than one method. To raise the bar and to develop muscles, the weight is to be lifted by the student himself.
The syllabus of Class 11 & 12 contributes about 45% and 55% of IIT-JEE question papers respectively. When you are preparing all the chapters of Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics, stress may be given, in particular, on the following topics.
Mathematics: Quadratic Equat-ions & Expressions, Complex Numbers, Probability, Vectors, Matrices in Algebra; Circle, Parabola, Hyperbola in Coordinate Geometry; Functions, Limits, Continuity and Differentiability, Application of Derivatives, Definite Integral in Calculus.
Physics: Mechanics, Fluids, Heat & Thermodynamics, Waves and Sound, Capacitors & Electrostatics, Magnetics, Electromagnetic Induction, Optics and Modern Physics.
Chemistry: Qualitative Analysis, Coordination Chemistry & Chemical Bonding in Inorganic Chemistry, Electrochemistry, Chemical Equilibrium in Physical Chemistry and Organic Chemistry complete as a topic.
Planning is the key The way to prepare and deal with the study pressure is proper planning and its implementation.
* Divide the time available on the three subjects.
* Further detail out the chapter-wise, topic-wise time schedule.
* Make summary notes/points to remember of all the concepts topic/chapter-wise and flag the questions with twist, intermingling of concepts requiring analytical skills. This will help in quick revision, a couple of days before or even on the eve of the examination.
The right approach
Students, who have to simultaneously prepare for XII board and IIT-JEE, should start concentrating on Class XII and corresponding IIT-JEE chapters around 21 days before board examination. However, the flame should be kept burning even for Class XI chapters by way of revision till start of board examinations. After the board examinations, focused and concentrated revision of both Class XI & XII subjects will have to be undertaken.
The right approach for those appearing first time or second (last) time is to stick to one source and not to refer to multitude of books/study material available in the market. For example it is sufficient to go through study-packages, IIT-JEE Archives, Review-packages, Work-books, Grand Masters Package/Equivalent, AITS/AIITS series etc., supplied by FIITJEE if the student is enrolled in any of its programmes. To reap benefits, the students, throughout preparation period, should remain focused with a positive attitude to study with utmost concentration. It is quality of time spent and not the quantity alone. A short break of 5 to 10 minutes every one to one-and-a-half hours of serious study is advisable. Total relaxation during the break will supposedly charge the batteries for another intensive spell of serious study.
Don't miss! Searchable database to find an engineering college
Pattern of papers
There will be two three-hour combined papers (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) to test the aptitude, comprehension and analytical ability of the students. Expected pattern in 2010 is a suitable mix of various types under 2006 to 2009 (view table below).
Importance of practice sessions
To keep focused for better results, the student should strictly follow a well-planned time schedule. During practice sessions speed in working out the questions should be developed. This is a natural byproduct if the student has attempted questions from basic principles in the initial stages. However, it is never too late to practise it. This strategy of solving questions from fundamentals will induce in the student a parallel thinking process so very necessary to increase and master analytical skills with conceptual understanding. The proof of pudding is in the eating. Progress made must be checked by solving Quizzes/Mock Test Papers on a regular basis. The student should aim at 100% hit rate i.e. all attempted questions are correct. This will ensure a competitive edge over others who will be left behind due to negative marking. Speed and accuracy will also allow finishing the papers ahead of time, leaving some time for revision.
Keep mind and body fit
Asanas, Pranayama and Meditation (in that order) every day in the morning and/or evening will help to develop inner calm and power of concentration needed for success. This will ultimately be of immense help on the D-day. Minimum 5 to 6 hours of sleep daily is necessary to keep the mind and body fit.
Smart tip: Understand application of concepts and analytical skills vis-à-vis mechanical/ blind application of formulae/theory.
Facing the exam
The strategy in the examination hall will be to keep cool, to have faith and to harness the examination temperament built during planned preparation. It is advisable to reach the examination centre at least 20 minutes early. A few deep breaths will ward off nervousness. Instructions given in the question papers should be read and followed very carefully. The student should not spend more than 45 minutes on any of the subjects in the first attempt.
He should fix priorities after a concentrated quick reading of the paper and start answering with the question he knows best and move progressively to ones in ascending order of difficulty. Questions with no negative marks must be attempted. The 45-minute cycle should be repeated for the other two subjects. Thereafter the student should come back to the three sections for attempting left out questions, conceptually with well-reasoned logic and for over all revision during the last 45 minutes. Even if some segment/section appears to be tough, one should keep cool since it is the relative performance which will count and hence the student should put-in his best.
Remain positive
IIT-JEE exam tests understanding in application of concepts and analytical skills vis-à-vis mechanical/blind application of formulae/theory. Temporary set-backs or poor performance during practice in some Quiz or Mock Test Paper should not discourage and the student should march onwards with greater and greater will and determination. The success in the IIT-JEE examination is directly proportional to the number of problems solved independently
and preferably by more than one method. To raise the bar and to develop muscles, the weight is to be lifted by the student himself.
TeamLease Services raises Rs 100 cr for expansion
TeamLease Services raises Rs 100 cr for expansion
Staffing and education firm TeamLease Services today announced that it has raised Rs 100 crore from ICICI Venture and Gaja Capital Partners to fund vocational education expansion.
TeamLease Services, focused on the organised temporary staffing market since 2003, entered vocational education by acquiring the Indian Institute of Job Training (IIJT) in 2010.
IIJT operates over 150 centres that deliver classroom and satellite training in five domains--finance and accounting, IT infrastructure, sales and marketing, retail and English and soft skills.
TeamLease Services said it has also begun work on TeamLease University that will offer associate degree programs in the same domains and will start operations later this year after regulatory and legislative approvals.
The company is also actively engaged with various State governments through Public Private Partnerships (PPP). It runs the only PPP Employment Exchange and one of largest PPP tribal training programs in the country.
"Innovating in India's people supply chain requires operating at the intersection of jobs and skills since companies are looking for trained candidates and candidates are looking for jobs. This fund raise allows us to create a corridor between certificates, diplomas, associate degrees and jobs," TeamLease Services, managing director Ashok Reddy said.
The capital raised will be deployed for the vocational education initiative--a rollout of IIJT centres, national satellite delivery capabilities, building a corporate training business, acquiring a footprint in new domains more suitable for students directly after Class 10 and the TeamLease University project.
Mr Vishakha Mulye, Managing Director and CEO of ICICI Venture, said, the education and staffing sector in India is "poised for an exciting future" as there is clear recognition within the Government as well as the private sector about the need to address gaps in the people supply chain, up-skilling of workforce and quality training.
The National Skill Mission has set a target of making 500 million people employable by 2020.
Staffing and education firm TeamLease Services today announced that it has raised Rs 100 crore from ICICI Venture and Gaja Capital Partners to fund vocational education expansion.
TeamLease Services, focused on the organised temporary staffing market since 2003, entered vocational education by acquiring the Indian Institute of Job Training (IIJT) in 2010.
IIJT operates over 150 centres that deliver classroom and satellite training in five domains--finance and accounting, IT infrastructure, sales and marketing, retail and English and soft skills.
TeamLease Services said it has also begun work on TeamLease University that will offer associate degree programs in the same domains and will start operations later this year after regulatory and legislative approvals.
The company is also actively engaged with various State governments through Public Private Partnerships (PPP). It runs the only PPP Employment Exchange and one of largest PPP tribal training programs in the country.
"Innovating in India's people supply chain requires operating at the intersection of jobs and skills since companies are looking for trained candidates and candidates are looking for jobs. This fund raise allows us to create a corridor between certificates, diplomas, associate degrees and jobs," TeamLease Services, managing director Ashok Reddy said.
The capital raised will be deployed for the vocational education initiative--a rollout of IIJT centres, national satellite delivery capabilities, building a corporate training business, acquiring a footprint in new domains more suitable for students directly after Class 10 and the TeamLease University project.
Mr Vishakha Mulye, Managing Director and CEO of ICICI Venture, said, the education and staffing sector in India is "poised for an exciting future" as there is clear recognition within the Government as well as the private sector about the need to address gaps in the people supply chain, up-skilling of workforce and quality training.
The National Skill Mission has set a target of making 500 million people employable by 2020.
'RTE Act implementation is challenging'
'RTE Act implementation is challenging'
The challenge in RTE implementation is changing the mindsets of teachers, parents and the school managements. While during their BA and B Ed teachers are taught that every child wants to learn, once the teachers come to class, their attitude changes. Nandakumar, project officer, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan talks to DNA regarding the RTE Act.
It’s been one year since the RTE act has been enforced, how is the state faring on its implementation?
Since we already have eight years of experience in Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, implementing RTE in Mahararashtra, so that every child goes to school, is not very difficult. We have already identified the problem areas and are working towards their solutions. Through School mapping we have realized that we need to create 904 new schools so that all children can be educated. There is no lack of funds. And luckily, due to our SSA experience, most of the infrastructure is already in place. Also, as the census report indicates, the number of children in the country is reducing as people are planning smaller families, so enrollment of students is also not a problem.
What are the challenges faced while implementation of RTE act in the state?
The real challenge in RTE implementation is changing the mindsets of teachers, parents and the school managements. While during their BA and B Ed teachers are taught that every child wants to learn, once the teachers come to class, their attitude changes. They think that all children are not capable of learning and so some children will fail. This attitude needs to be changed.
That is what RTE is attempting to do. We need to engrain in them that every child can learn. Commiting mistakes in learning are their birthright. Schools do not have a right to stop their learning if they do these mistakes. They cannot detain children. Instead, through remedial coaching, schools need to bring these children up to speed. Unfortunately, many schools have not understood the spirit behind this policy. So it is being misused.
What kind of training is being given to the teachers so that they can teach students who have never been to school?
Responsibilities of the teachers have increased. Under RTE, teachers have to teach students who might not even know Marathi. They might be only literate in their native language. So teachers will have to take special efforts to learn ‘one more language’ so that they can reach such students. For instance, teachers in Maharashtra only understand Marathi, so they are unable to communicate with tribal children. They will not even bother to learn their language.
So we have been giving them training on two levels. Motivational training so that they develop a positive attitude and we are training them to increase their skills, creativity , so that they can introduce innovative techniques of teaching that can relate to multiple intelligences in the classrooms.
The challenge in RTE implementation is changing the mindsets of teachers, parents and the school managements. While during their BA and B Ed teachers are taught that every child wants to learn, once the teachers come to class, their attitude changes. Nandakumar, project officer, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan talks to DNA regarding the RTE Act.
It’s been one year since the RTE act has been enforced, how is the state faring on its implementation?
Since we already have eight years of experience in Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, implementing RTE in Mahararashtra, so that every child goes to school, is not very difficult. We have already identified the problem areas and are working towards their solutions. Through School mapping we have realized that we need to create 904 new schools so that all children can be educated. There is no lack of funds. And luckily, due to our SSA experience, most of the infrastructure is already in place. Also, as the census report indicates, the number of children in the country is reducing as people are planning smaller families, so enrollment of students is also not a problem.
What are the challenges faced while implementation of RTE act in the state?
The real challenge in RTE implementation is changing the mindsets of teachers, parents and the school managements. While during their BA and B Ed teachers are taught that every child wants to learn, once the teachers come to class, their attitude changes. They think that all children are not capable of learning and so some children will fail. This attitude needs to be changed.
That is what RTE is attempting to do. We need to engrain in them that every child can learn. Commiting mistakes in learning are their birthright. Schools do not have a right to stop their learning if they do these mistakes. They cannot detain children. Instead, through remedial coaching, schools need to bring these children up to speed. Unfortunately, many schools have not understood the spirit behind this policy. So it is being misused.
What kind of training is being given to the teachers so that they can teach students who have never been to school?
Responsibilities of the teachers have increased. Under RTE, teachers have to teach students who might not even know Marathi. They might be only literate in their native language. So teachers will have to take special efforts to learn ‘one more language’ so that they can reach such students. For instance, teachers in Maharashtra only understand Marathi, so they are unable to communicate with tribal children. They will not even bother to learn their language.
So we have been giving them training on two levels. Motivational training so that they develop a positive attitude and we are training them to increase their skills, creativity , so that they can introduce innovative techniques of teaching that can relate to multiple intelligences in the classrooms.
Road to IIT: Meet Anand Kumar, brain behind Super 30
Road to IIT: Meet Anand Kumar, brain behind Super 30
Educator Anand Kumar could not attend Cambridge University due to financial constraints. Today, he coaches deserving students for IIT-JEE.
HIS father, a post office clerk in Bihar, couldn't afford private schooling for his children. So, Anand Kumar studied at a Hindi medium government school where, at an early age, he fell in love with mathematics. During graduation, he submitted papers on Numbers Theory that were published in UK's Mathematical Spectrum and The Mathematical Gazette.
He was accepted by Cambridge University and was close to realising his dream of becoming a mathematician, when his father suddenly passed away. The household income dwindled and Kumar and his mother made papad, which he sold door-to-door in the evenings, while writing mathematical theories in the daytime.
Then one day, a well-wisher suggested Kumar teach maths. In 1995, at the age of 22, he rented a classroom for Rs. 500 a month and started teaching. In one year's time, the strength of his classroom went from 2 to 36. Today, his study centre Ramanujan School of Mathematics is renowned, the world over. In a frank interview with Sumita Vaid Dixit, he talks (in chaste Hindi) about Indian education, revolution and his dream.
Q. Why did you start Super 30?
A. Within three years we had nearly 500 students. Although the fee was nominal - Rs. 1,500 a year - some poor students could not pay. Once, a boy came to me and said that he wanted to study but could only pay after his father, a poor farmer, had harvested potatoes. In Bihar, we call it 'aloo ukharna'.
I didn't want to take away the boy's only hope of changing his life because he couldn't pay. That's when I decided that I will form a group of 30 bright students, all from poor families, provide them with board and lodging and prepare them for IIT. This group was called Super 30. My brother Pranav Kumar, a violinist by profession, manages the institute, while my mother cooks for the students.
In the last seven years, 182 students out of 210 have made it to different IITs of the country. And for the last two years, all thirty students of Super 30 have made it to IIT. Parents of some students are bricklayers some work as domestic help. Now many of our students are working in Europe and the US.
Q. What is it about your teaching methods that help students get through to IIT?
A. This success is a combination of three factors. My students have junoon (passion), a fire in them to achieve. Two, our teaching approach is different. I use multimedia slides to make a little story with characters to explain maths concepts. Three, we take tests every day. Well, in a nutshell, we teach our students the how and why! That's all.
Q. But how do you run the place with the little fee you charge the other students?
A. I didn't start the place to make money. There are many coaching institutes in Patna for the rich, but none for the poor. NRIs (Non-Resident Indians) come to me with offers of help, but I wanted to prove that much can be achieved with fewer resources.
Q. Have you been able to prove that?
A. I think I have. There are far too many students coming to us, more than what we can take. And this has annoyed many coaching institutes. As you would know, many of the institutes here are run by criminals. I have received death threats one of my non-teaching staff was stabbed, once they even tried to blow me away with a crude bomb, but I escaped unhurt. I move around with two security guards armed with machines guns.
Q. Does the sight of security guards scare away children or parents?
A. (laughs) Children in Bihar are familiar with the criminal activities here. It doesn't scare them.
Q. Don't you get scared your life may be at stake?
A. I am doing this for society. Yes, mobility is restricted and I get frustrated at times, but it's okay. I get my strength from these kids. But over the past few years, the crime rate has come down and the police support me. Besides, if I get scared how will the others join me in creating a revolution?
Q. What kind of revolution?
A. Making education accessible to every poor child in India. I wish the kids I have taught, come back to their hometowns and do something for their people, their village. At times, it hurts to see that some forget about giving back to the society.
But there's another kind of kranti (revolution) taking place. Earlier when a peon used to work at an IAS officer's residence, he hoped that when his own son became a peon, the officer would treat him well. Today, the peon who works at the IAS officer's house wants his son to become an IAS officer, not a peon. That's kranti! We mustn't forget the sacrifice and hardships parents go through just to make sure their children live better lives, their children go to schools.
Q. Would the HRD minister's proposals bring about a change?
A. Kapil Sibalji thinks that by changing the syllabus or introducing a grading system, education will improve. The system will not change like this. Change will come when teachers have the passion to teach. 'Jab unme junoon hoga'!For that teachers should be paid well. It's ironical that while parents want their children to have great teachers, they don't want their children to become teachers!
The policymakers' idea of education is limited to Delhi and the NCR region. They have no clue of the positions of schools in Bihar or Uttar Pradesh many schools don't have roofs here.
And suggesting 80 per cent as cut-off marks for the IIT entrance exam is ridiculous. You cannot apply this to local boards or to students in villages. There cannot to be true development until the villages of India are also a part of the development process. 'Bharat ki atman gaon mein bassi hain' (the spirit of this nation resides in the villages).
Q. Then what's the way forward?
A. We need two syllabi: one for students with an ordinary intellect and one for students with extraordinary intellect. There are those who can do very well in jobs and there are those who can excel in research, and the first six years of schooling are good enough to evaluate a student's potential. This method is followed by China and Russia.
Do you know that China has topped 15 times in the past 22 years in the International Mathematical Olympiad? In times to come the top researches and scientists will come from China.
So we have to think of novel ways of encouraging our students to get into research. Why hasn't India produced Nobel winners in a long time? The ones that have are those who left this country to pursue their research elsewhere.
Q. And, what are your future plans?
A. I want to extent my programme to students of Class 5 and 6 as many gifted children fade away before they reach class 10. Many out of school to sell vegetables or work at tea stalls. I want to catch them young.
So, now I'm thinking of setting up a chain of free schools across the country, with free board and lodging facilities, where children can study from Class 5 to up to Class 12 and where they are prepared not just for IIT but Olympiad tests in mathematics, physics and chemistry.
Q. But your dream of going to Cambridge still remains unfulfilled?
A. When those eyes full of hope look at me, the respect and pleasure I get seeing my students being placed in large organisations makes me forget about it. But I do keep travelling to the US to give lectures my papers get published in international magazines. I am happy.
Educator Anand Kumar could not attend Cambridge University due to financial constraints. Today, he coaches deserving students for IIT-JEE.
HIS father, a post office clerk in Bihar, couldn't afford private schooling for his children. So, Anand Kumar studied at a Hindi medium government school where, at an early age, he fell in love with mathematics. During graduation, he submitted papers on Numbers Theory that were published in UK's Mathematical Spectrum and The Mathematical Gazette.
He was accepted by Cambridge University and was close to realising his dream of becoming a mathematician, when his father suddenly passed away. The household income dwindled and Kumar and his mother made papad, which he sold door-to-door in the evenings, while writing mathematical theories in the daytime.
Then one day, a well-wisher suggested Kumar teach maths. In 1995, at the age of 22, he rented a classroom for Rs. 500 a month and started teaching. In one year's time, the strength of his classroom went from 2 to 36. Today, his study centre Ramanujan School of Mathematics is renowned, the world over. In a frank interview with Sumita Vaid Dixit, he talks (in chaste Hindi) about Indian education, revolution and his dream.
Q. Why did you start Super 30?
A. Within three years we had nearly 500 students. Although the fee was nominal - Rs. 1,500 a year - some poor students could not pay. Once, a boy came to me and said that he wanted to study but could only pay after his father, a poor farmer, had harvested potatoes. In Bihar, we call it 'aloo ukharna'.
I didn't want to take away the boy's only hope of changing his life because he couldn't pay. That's when I decided that I will form a group of 30 bright students, all from poor families, provide them with board and lodging and prepare them for IIT. This group was called Super 30. My brother Pranav Kumar, a violinist by profession, manages the institute, while my mother cooks for the students.
In the last seven years, 182 students out of 210 have made it to different IITs of the country. And for the last two years, all thirty students of Super 30 have made it to IIT. Parents of some students are bricklayers some work as domestic help. Now many of our students are working in Europe and the US.
Q. What is it about your teaching methods that help students get through to IIT?
A. This success is a combination of three factors. My students have junoon (passion), a fire in them to achieve. Two, our teaching approach is different. I use multimedia slides to make a little story with characters to explain maths concepts. Three, we take tests every day. Well, in a nutshell, we teach our students the how and why! That's all.
Q. But how do you run the place with the little fee you charge the other students?
A. I didn't start the place to make money. There are many coaching institutes in Patna for the rich, but none for the poor. NRIs (Non-Resident Indians) come to me with offers of help, but I wanted to prove that much can be achieved with fewer resources.
Q. Have you been able to prove that?
A. I think I have. There are far too many students coming to us, more than what we can take. And this has annoyed many coaching institutes. As you would know, many of the institutes here are run by criminals. I have received death threats one of my non-teaching staff was stabbed, once they even tried to blow me away with a crude bomb, but I escaped unhurt. I move around with two security guards armed with machines guns.
Q. Does the sight of security guards scare away children or parents?
A. (laughs) Children in Bihar are familiar with the criminal activities here. It doesn't scare them.
Q. Don't you get scared your life may be at stake?
A. I am doing this for society. Yes, mobility is restricted and I get frustrated at times, but it's okay. I get my strength from these kids. But over the past few years, the crime rate has come down and the police support me. Besides, if I get scared how will the others join me in creating a revolution?
Q. What kind of revolution?
A. Making education accessible to every poor child in India. I wish the kids I have taught, come back to their hometowns and do something for their people, their village. At times, it hurts to see that some forget about giving back to the society.
But there's another kind of kranti (revolution) taking place. Earlier when a peon used to work at an IAS officer's residence, he hoped that when his own son became a peon, the officer would treat him well. Today, the peon who works at the IAS officer's house wants his son to become an IAS officer, not a peon. That's kranti! We mustn't forget the sacrifice and hardships parents go through just to make sure their children live better lives, their children go to schools.
Q. Would the HRD minister's proposals bring about a change?
A. Kapil Sibalji thinks that by changing the syllabus or introducing a grading system, education will improve. The system will not change like this. Change will come when teachers have the passion to teach. 'Jab unme junoon hoga'!For that teachers should be paid well. It's ironical that while parents want their children to have great teachers, they don't want their children to become teachers!
The policymakers' idea of education is limited to Delhi and the NCR region. They have no clue of the positions of schools in Bihar or Uttar Pradesh many schools don't have roofs here.
And suggesting 80 per cent as cut-off marks for the IIT entrance exam is ridiculous. You cannot apply this to local boards or to students in villages. There cannot to be true development until the villages of India are also a part of the development process. 'Bharat ki atman gaon mein bassi hain' (the spirit of this nation resides in the villages).
Q. Then what's the way forward?
A. We need two syllabi: one for students with an ordinary intellect and one for students with extraordinary intellect. There are those who can do very well in jobs and there are those who can excel in research, and the first six years of schooling are good enough to evaluate a student's potential. This method is followed by China and Russia.
Do you know that China has topped 15 times in the past 22 years in the International Mathematical Olympiad? In times to come the top researches and scientists will come from China.
So we have to think of novel ways of encouraging our students to get into research. Why hasn't India produced Nobel winners in a long time? The ones that have are those who left this country to pursue their research elsewhere.
Q. And, what are your future plans?
A. I want to extent my programme to students of Class 5 and 6 as many gifted children fade away before they reach class 10. Many out of school to sell vegetables or work at tea stalls. I want to catch them young.
So, now I'm thinking of setting up a chain of free schools across the country, with free board and lodging facilities, where children can study from Class 5 to up to Class 12 and where they are prepared not just for IIT but Olympiad tests in mathematics, physics and chemistry.
Q. But your dream of going to Cambridge still remains unfulfilled?
A. When those eyes full of hope look at me, the respect and pleasure I get seeing my students being placed in large organisations makes me forget about it. But I do keep travelling to the US to give lectures my papers get published in international magazines. I am happy.
Penn State students rally for reduction of state education cuts
Penn State students rally for reduction of state education cuts
Penn State Altoona sophomore Kimberly Isaac likes it here and has gotten "the hang" of her print journalism major.
But her parents in Queens, N.Y., are struggling with the responsibility to pay her $30,000 a year college costs, even as they pay off her big sister's Penn State loans. So Isaac fears the big tuition hike that must follow if the state follows through on Gov. Tom Corbett's proposed 50 percent cut in higher education funding.
Isaac was among 75 Altoona College students - 500 altogether from Penn State - at the university's annual Capitol Day rally Tuesday in Harrisburg, urging lawmakers to back off the radical cuts.
"It would be a big step" - one she'd be reluctant to take - if she had to go to a smaller school closer to home, Isaac said after the rally.
Her parents are willing to do more, "but there's only so much they can do," she said.
"Everybody fears the worst," said Paige Blawas of Latrobe, president of the Altoona Student Government Association.
Blawas worries she'll need a serious job to supplement the minimal one she now holds during the school year, and that extra effort might diminish her college experience and even her grades.
Her family is middle class, not "well-off" - as one speaker she heard Tuesday presumed to label most of the students, she said.
Her dad has a small business installing stair lifts, her mom helps him part-time and her brother is starting college in the fall.
And the family income isn't guaranteed: "It's all about sales," she said. "And if [my dad] has a bad month."
Ben Clark, SGA vice president, worries that friends may need to leave Penn State or that he'll find at reunions 20 years from now they're still paying off student loans.
He also wonders about increasing numbers of students in his classes due to faculty cuts and even the possibility of closures of outreach campuses, a possibility university officials are examining.
It would seem that Altoona should be safe, being large and close to University Park, making it an easy transition for juniors to the main campus, he said.
But that very proximity might make it easier to close, because this area of the state is already served by the main campus, and because closing a large satellite campus would lop a large part of the overall costs all at once, he conceded.
Still, the situation may not be as dire as it seems, Blawas said, after speaking to aides of state Sen. Kim Ward, R-Westmoreland.
"They said a lot that was reassuring," Blawas said. "They made it seem as though it wouldn't be as big a cut as expected."
Likewise, Clark was pleasantly surprised.
He went expecting to feel alienated, with non-receptive lawmakers.
Instead, he found them "engaging," and hoping to work out something that would "not hit [us] as hard as originally proposed."
It probably helped that his father, Dan, was a state representative for Juniata, Mifflin, Snyder and Perry counties from 1988 to 2002.
Clark talked with state Reps. Rick Geist, R-Altoona, and Bill Adolph, R-Delaware, the latter of which he'd known as a child, through his father.
Clark and the others he encountered Tuesday are "good kids," Geist said.
As for the students' hopes of a smaller cut, "the budget is far from being done," he said.
He thinks Corbett's $27.3 billion total "will hold," but that the items within that budget are "a moving target."
Mirror Staff Writer William Kibler is at 949-7038.
Penn State Altoona sophomore Kimberly Isaac likes it here and has gotten "the hang" of her print journalism major.
But her parents in Queens, N.Y., are struggling with the responsibility to pay her $30,000 a year college costs, even as they pay off her big sister's Penn State loans. So Isaac fears the big tuition hike that must follow if the state follows through on Gov. Tom Corbett's proposed 50 percent cut in higher education funding.
Isaac was among 75 Altoona College students - 500 altogether from Penn State - at the university's annual Capitol Day rally Tuesday in Harrisburg, urging lawmakers to back off the radical cuts.
"It would be a big step" - one she'd be reluctant to take - if she had to go to a smaller school closer to home, Isaac said after the rally.
Her parents are willing to do more, "but there's only so much they can do," she said.
"Everybody fears the worst," said Paige Blawas of Latrobe, president of the Altoona Student Government Association.
Blawas worries she'll need a serious job to supplement the minimal one she now holds during the school year, and that extra effort might diminish her college experience and even her grades.
Her family is middle class, not "well-off" - as one speaker she heard Tuesday presumed to label most of the students, she said.
Her dad has a small business installing stair lifts, her mom helps him part-time and her brother is starting college in the fall.
And the family income isn't guaranteed: "It's all about sales," she said. "And if [my dad] has a bad month."
Ben Clark, SGA vice president, worries that friends may need to leave Penn State or that he'll find at reunions 20 years from now they're still paying off student loans.
He also wonders about increasing numbers of students in his classes due to faculty cuts and even the possibility of closures of outreach campuses, a possibility university officials are examining.
It would seem that Altoona should be safe, being large and close to University Park, making it an easy transition for juniors to the main campus, he said.
But that very proximity might make it easier to close, because this area of the state is already served by the main campus, and because closing a large satellite campus would lop a large part of the overall costs all at once, he conceded.
Still, the situation may not be as dire as it seems, Blawas said, after speaking to aides of state Sen. Kim Ward, R-Westmoreland.
"They said a lot that was reassuring," Blawas said. "They made it seem as though it wouldn't be as big a cut as expected."
Likewise, Clark was pleasantly surprised.
He went expecting to feel alienated, with non-receptive lawmakers.
Instead, he found them "engaging," and hoping to work out something that would "not hit [us] as hard as originally proposed."
It probably helped that his father, Dan, was a state representative for Juniata, Mifflin, Snyder and Perry counties from 1988 to 2002.
Clark talked with state Reps. Rick Geist, R-Altoona, and Bill Adolph, R-Delaware, the latter of which he'd known as a child, through his father.
Clark and the others he encountered Tuesday are "good kids," Geist said.
As for the students' hopes of a smaller cut, "the budget is far from being done," he said.
He thinks Corbett's $27.3 billion total "will hold," but that the items within that budget are "a moving target."
Mirror Staff Writer William Kibler is at 949-7038.
Pell Knell
Pell Knell
Even if Obama wins on education funding, students will lose.
In February, Republicans unveiled a plan to cut funding for Pell grants by 25 percent and slash the maximum award by $845—changes that would knock funding to below 2008 levels and, according to education experts I spoke to, devastate students who rely on the program for support. The White House responded by offering a preemptive compromise, asking for more modest cuts in an attempt to claim the political center and maintain the maximum grant at $5,500: It called for reductions of $100 billion over ten years, through the elimination of a rule that allows summer students to qualify for additional Pell grants and the elimination interest subsidies for graduate students. "Cuts like these are never easy,” said Education Secretary Arne Duncan, “but in the current fiscal climate they are the responsible thing to do, and the only way to ensure that we can make the investments we need to secure our future."
This may or may not succeed politically. As the White House plays a game of budgetary Uncle with House Republicans this week, President Obama will at best receive what he has asked for, and at worst acquiesce to drastic cuts that would render its slogan of “Winning the Future” utterly hollow. Yet the fact is that even if Obama wins and manages to preserve most Pell funding, students will lose: With cash-strapped states dramatically reducing the amount of support they provide for higher education, the total pool of funds looks to be shrinking precipitously, and anything short of a serious increase in federal support to fill the gap will curtail the dreams of thousands upon thousands of young Americans.
There is no aggregate figure available totaling all state-level reductions since the beginning of the financial crisis, but we do know that 43 states have made cuts to higher education since 2008, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. Many of these reductions are gut-wrenching: In Michigan, where state financial aid plummeted by $135 million—or over 60 percent—in the FY2011 budget. Missouri’s FY2011 budget will cut need-based aid by about 60 percent. In Iowa, spending on public universities dropped 20 percent, or $141 million, in the last two years.
In a budget bind, state legislators have long known they can hack at post-secondary education more than other services, because tuition hikes usually cover the funding gap. “It’s basically a way of raising taxes without getting dinged for it,” says Kevin Carey, a researcher Education Sector, a think tank. Sure enough, tuition at Florida’s eleven public universities has increased by 32 percent in the past two years, while the vaunted University of California has also hiked its tuition by 32 percent since the middle of the 2009–2010 school year. Many others have followed suit.
Indeed, with soaring education costs, the maximum Pell grant does less to help students afford college than it did in 1990. (It currently covers just 34 percent of tuition, fees, room, and board at public four-year colleges, according to the College Board, compared to 45 percent two decades ago.) In these conditions, there is an urgent need for more federal help for disadvantaged students—not less. The administration hopes to tie the maximum Pell grant to the Consumer Price Index between 2013 and 2017, which would amount to an estimated $425 bump, but at this point, that’s simply a wish-list item to be determined largely by future Congresses. (Paul Ryan, who will probably still chair the House Budget Committee during negotiations over spending for 2013, has just announced that he supports dramatic cuts.)
And reductions in education funding have real consequences. According to Sara Goldrick-Rab, who has seen the effects of Pell grants first-hand as Co-Director of the Wisconsin Scholars Longitudinal Study—which tracked 3,000 Pell grant recipients for the past three years—grants like these often make the difference between a college education and dropping out. “I have kids in my study who have parents taking on two or three jobs. I also have kids who are taking on two or three jobs. They are skipping breakfast,” she said. “And they’re getting a Pell, and taking away the Pell is going to make continuing in college impossible.”
Even if Obama wins on education funding, students will lose.
In February, Republicans unveiled a plan to cut funding for Pell grants by 25 percent and slash the maximum award by $845—changes that would knock funding to below 2008 levels and, according to education experts I spoke to, devastate students who rely on the program for support. The White House responded by offering a preemptive compromise, asking for more modest cuts in an attempt to claim the political center and maintain the maximum grant at $5,500: It called for reductions of $100 billion over ten years, through the elimination of a rule that allows summer students to qualify for additional Pell grants and the elimination interest subsidies for graduate students. "Cuts like these are never easy,” said Education Secretary Arne Duncan, “but in the current fiscal climate they are the responsible thing to do, and the only way to ensure that we can make the investments we need to secure our future."
This may or may not succeed politically. As the White House plays a game of budgetary Uncle with House Republicans this week, President Obama will at best receive what he has asked for, and at worst acquiesce to drastic cuts that would render its slogan of “Winning the Future” utterly hollow. Yet the fact is that even if Obama wins and manages to preserve most Pell funding, students will lose: With cash-strapped states dramatically reducing the amount of support they provide for higher education, the total pool of funds looks to be shrinking precipitously, and anything short of a serious increase in federal support to fill the gap will curtail the dreams of thousands upon thousands of young Americans.
There is no aggregate figure available totaling all state-level reductions since the beginning of the financial crisis, but we do know that 43 states have made cuts to higher education since 2008, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. Many of these reductions are gut-wrenching: In Michigan, where state financial aid plummeted by $135 million—or over 60 percent—in the FY2011 budget. Missouri’s FY2011 budget will cut need-based aid by about 60 percent. In Iowa, spending on public universities dropped 20 percent, or $141 million, in the last two years.
In a budget bind, state legislators have long known they can hack at post-secondary education more than other services, because tuition hikes usually cover the funding gap. “It’s basically a way of raising taxes without getting dinged for it,” says Kevin Carey, a researcher Education Sector, a think tank. Sure enough, tuition at Florida’s eleven public universities has increased by 32 percent in the past two years, while the vaunted University of California has also hiked its tuition by 32 percent since the middle of the 2009–2010 school year. Many others have followed suit.
Indeed, with soaring education costs, the maximum Pell grant does less to help students afford college than it did in 1990. (It currently covers just 34 percent of tuition, fees, room, and board at public four-year colleges, according to the College Board, compared to 45 percent two decades ago.) In these conditions, there is an urgent need for more federal help for disadvantaged students—not less. The administration hopes to tie the maximum Pell grant to the Consumer Price Index between 2013 and 2017, which would amount to an estimated $425 bump, but at this point, that’s simply a wish-list item to be determined largely by future Congresses. (Paul Ryan, who will probably still chair the House Budget Committee during negotiations over spending for 2013, has just announced that he supports dramatic cuts.)
And reductions in education funding have real consequences. According to Sara Goldrick-Rab, who has seen the effects of Pell grants first-hand as Co-Director of the Wisconsin Scholars Longitudinal Study—which tracked 3,000 Pell grant recipients for the past three years—grants like these often make the difference between a college education and dropping out. “I have kids in my study who have parents taking on two or three jobs. I also have kids who are taking on two or three jobs. They are skipping breakfast,” she said. “And they’re getting a Pell, and taking away the Pell is going to make continuing in college impossible.”
NIMS-INTELLECTURE-2011 SYMPOSIUM was concluded successfully by active participation
NIMS-INTELLECTURE-2011 SYMPOSIUM was concluded successfully by active participation
Netaji Subhash Institute of Management Sciences believes that faculty is the principal driver of change through their direct involvement in every aspect of the Institute: Academics, Governance, Research, and Consultancy. To further empower them in knowledge, NIMS initiated the concept of Intellecture-Faculty Seminar Forum. It aims at enhancing the academic and intellectual environment in the Institution by providing faculty members with enough opportunities to pursue research and also to participate in seminars / conferences / workshops. The first major event under this forum, NIMS-INTELLECTURE-2011 SYMPOSIUM, Innovative Management Strategies, took place on the 30th of March, 2011, Wednesday in the NIMS campus.Eminent guests from the corporate and the academic arena graced the occasion and manifolded the intellectual worthiness of this event. Prof Steve Rawlinson, President, JRE group of institutions at Raffles Education Corporation/Educomp,India was the chief guest. Dr K.L Chawla , PGP Chairperson , Fore School of Management was the Guest of Honour. Prof K. V Krishnamurthy was invited as a special guest. Along with Dr D.K. Batra, Director, NIMS and Prof. P.C. Chhabra, Head Academics, NIMS, everyone shared their wisdom with the participants and audience. Through the day’s events, presentations were held under three different sessions which were chaired by eminent corporate guests who evaluated the presentations on various parameters.Dr. Tarun Panwar, CEO , Indian Retail School; Dr Ravikesh Srivastava , Dean, Galgotias Business School chaired the sessions along with the Chief guest, Professor Steve and the special guest Prof. Krishnamurthy.The symposium was concluded successfully by a valedictory speech by Mr A.K. Puri, Director General, ITS Group.
Various colleges and corporates from across Delhi participated in the NIMS Intellecture 2011 Symposium with a lot of innovative management strategies to share. Professors from nine colleges and institutes across Delhi & NCR , namely , Lady Irwin college, Delhi University; Bhartiya Vidyapeeth; Bhagwan Parshuram Institute of Technology; Guru Nanak Institute of Management(GNIM); ICFAI , Delhi ; JIMS Rohini; ITS Ghaziabad; Delhi institute of Advanced studies(DIAS) participated in the event. Research Papers and live case studies were presented in diverse areas like Sustainable Development, Branding, Work Life conflict, Event marketing ,Intrapreneurship, Employee Engagement,Total Quality Management to name a few. The first two winners namely Ms Babita Mehra from GNIM and Ms Amrinder Kaur from NIMS were rewarded with a cash prize of Rs 5000/- each. The following 11 best presentations were awarded a honorarium of Rs 1000/- each along with an opportunity to get their paper published in the special issue of the widely circulated monthly magazine of NIMS “SPOTLIGHT”.
The first international symposium organised by NIMS was certainly a benchmark in its journey of becoming a world class business school, the success of which was proved by the active participation and the involvement of one and all, inspite of the strong desire to witness the much awaited India Pakistan World Cup Semi Final.
Netaji Subhash Institute of Management Sciences believes that faculty is the principal driver of change through their direct involvement in every aspect of the Institute: Academics, Governance, Research, and Consultancy. To further empower them in knowledge, NIMS initiated the concept of Intellecture-Faculty Seminar Forum. It aims at enhancing the academic and intellectual environment in the Institution by providing faculty members with enough opportunities to pursue research and also to participate in seminars / conferences / workshops. The first major event under this forum, NIMS-INTELLECTURE-2011 SYMPOSIUM, Innovative Management Strategies, took place on the 30th of March, 2011, Wednesday in the NIMS campus.Eminent guests from the corporate and the academic arena graced the occasion and manifolded the intellectual worthiness of this event. Prof Steve Rawlinson, President, JRE group of institutions at Raffles Education Corporation/Educomp,India was the chief guest. Dr K.L Chawla , PGP Chairperson , Fore School of Management was the Guest of Honour. Prof K. V Krishnamurthy was invited as a special guest. Along with Dr D.K. Batra, Director, NIMS and Prof. P.C. Chhabra, Head Academics, NIMS, everyone shared their wisdom with the participants and audience. Through the day’s events, presentations were held under three different sessions which were chaired by eminent corporate guests who evaluated the presentations on various parameters.Dr. Tarun Panwar, CEO , Indian Retail School; Dr Ravikesh Srivastava , Dean, Galgotias Business School chaired the sessions along with the Chief guest, Professor Steve and the special guest Prof. Krishnamurthy.The symposium was concluded successfully by a valedictory speech by Mr A.K. Puri, Director General, ITS Group.
Various colleges and corporates from across Delhi participated in the NIMS Intellecture 2011 Symposium with a lot of innovative management strategies to share. Professors from nine colleges and institutes across Delhi & NCR , namely , Lady Irwin college, Delhi University; Bhartiya Vidyapeeth; Bhagwan Parshuram Institute of Technology; Guru Nanak Institute of Management(GNIM); ICFAI , Delhi ; JIMS Rohini; ITS Ghaziabad; Delhi institute of Advanced studies(DIAS) participated in the event. Research Papers and live case studies were presented in diverse areas like Sustainable Development, Branding, Work Life conflict, Event marketing ,Intrapreneurship, Employee Engagement,Total Quality Management to name a few. The first two winners namely Ms Babita Mehra from GNIM and Ms Amrinder Kaur from NIMS were rewarded with a cash prize of Rs 5000/- each. The following 11 best presentations were awarded a honorarium of Rs 1000/- each along with an opportunity to get their paper published in the special issue of the widely circulated monthly magazine of NIMS “SPOTLIGHT”.
The first international symposium organised by NIMS was certainly a benchmark in its journey of becoming a world class business school, the success of which was proved by the active participation and the involvement of one and all, inspite of the strong desire to witness the much awaited India Pakistan World Cup Semi Final.