Tag: Ankit Kapoor

By - Mr Ankit Kapoor, Co-founder & Director, Pratham Test Prep
Education

Plan at least 3 years prior, when seeking admissions abroad

Jan 27, 2022 by Praveen 0 Comments #Ankit Kapoor, #GMAT/ GRE, #Pratham Test Prep, #seeking admissions abroad

By – Mr Ankit Kapoor, Co-founder & Director, Pratham Test Prep

Having a plethora of reasons for abroad study programs becoming quite popular, for most international students the appeal is likely to be a combination of gaining a high-quality education, experiencing immersion in a new culture, gaining a global mindset and expanding future employment prospects.

For some, the prospect of leaving home and heading off into the unknown is daunting but studying abroad is also an exciting challenge that often leads to improved career opportunities and a broader understanding of the way the world works.

The type of experience one has during their time abroad will vary hugely depending on where they go, so it is imperative to state that one should choose the study destination based on their own personal interest as well as the country’s academic reputation, in order to keep a healthy work/play balance.

While this decision is a herculean task, one also need to keep in mind the practicalities such as the incurring cost of studying (tuition) & living expenses in the country, graduate career prospects & employability and overall safety and welfare and the countries immigration guidelines.

Students who are looking for a scholarship should plan their steps way in advance. Students planning for Undergraduate programs abroad from India should start planning when they are in class 9th. Most abroad universities offer you scholarships after evaluating an applicant’s application based on various parameters. Scholarships for Undergraduate students are mostly granted based on academic, profile and need-based parameters. For Example, The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships at the University of Toronto provide an unparalleled opportunity for outstanding international students to study at one of the world’s best universities in one of the world’s most multicultural cities.

The scholarship program is intended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and creativity and who are recognized as leaders within their school. A special emphasis is placed on the impact the student has had on the life of their school and community, and their future potential to contribute positively to the global community. Similar scholarships are also offered by various universities across the world. Most Canadian, American European and Australian Universities have multiple allotments of scholarships for International Students who have shown excellence in leadership, community and extracurricular activities along with a great academic profile.

Postgraduate Applicants should also start focusing on building a profile that should be beyond academics by gaining Internships, writing and publishing research papers, completing unique projects along with a good GMAT/ GRE score where applicable.

Every student who is thinking of studying abroad should start planning at least 3 years in advance. Getting an offer letter from a University is easy if you have strong academics but getting a decent scholarship is where all the effort is.

Ankit Kapoor, Managing Director - Pratham Test Prep
Business World

The flavour of the season – Integrated Program for management

Apr 28, 2021 by Neel Achary 0 Comments #Ankit Kapoor, #Director – Pratham Test Prep

By Ankit Kapoor, Director – Pratham Test Prep

With an objective to mould young students into budding leaders of tomorrow, the five-year integrated Program (IPM) was initially introduced by IIM Indore in 2011 and ever since it has been the most successful program in the country. Following this bandwagon, other IIM’s including IIM-Rohtak, IIM-Bodh Gaya, IIM-Jammu, and IIM-Ranchi are the latest addition to this list of colleges.

Recently NALSAR, Hyderabad has also introduced this course for management and IIIT Prayagraj has also proposed to start this management course from the upcoming academic year. Catering to students who have passed out from class XII, students in large numbers seek admissions for this course.

A five-year program gives enough scope and time to hone the management skills which lacks in a two-year post-graduation diploma from the same institute. This course helps them to learn the basics of the course and refine their chosen area of specialization. NALSARs Five Year Integrated program in management states that the course will contribute to the learning and learnability aspects of the students. The course will establish strong foundations of management and allow the students to develop strong work ethics. It will provide strong holistic thinking procedure and create opportunities for gaining practical exposure

An early management course helps the students to understand and develop the complete know-how of the field, providing with holistic development. It ensures that the students imbibe from the case studies and live projects conducted at college qualities of good leadership, Social sensibilities, and intellectual capabilities. The objective to start this course at various IIMs is clear from the fact that the course structure is designed in a way that a student gets knowledge of various aspects of theory and practical scenarios. The course helps them to develop their core competencies, Interpersonal skills, and work ethics.

Early entry to one of the most prestigious institutions of the country IIM allows the students pursue management early on from the institutions imparting management education for quite some time.

The College provides holistic development due to a well-crafted course curriculum along with better placement. Admission to these colleges is based on an aptitude-based entrance exam which is based on – Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability, and Logical Reasoning.

Pratham Test Prep, over the years has been preparing students for these entrance exams and paving the way for many students to reach IIMs and start their success journey of making a rewarding career. Special dedicated classes are conducted to cater to the needs of the students for the preparation of these exams.

Ankit Kapoor, Managing Director - Pratham Test Prep
Education

Strategic juggling to ace in boards and Competitive exams

Mar 3, 2021 by Neel Achary 0 Comments #Ankit Kapoor, #Managing Director - Pratham Test Prep

 By Ankit Kapoor, Managing Director – Pratham Test Prep

While the students have been put in a situation of dilemma due to swing between the preparation for the board exam or the competitive exams, it is evident that both are important in the present scenario of the on-going pandemic. It is not the first time when we have such a stressful situation, considering that the first quarter of every year is as stressful as the current one. Class 12th is the threshold to start building the foundation of a rewarding career ahead. The pressure of preparing for the board class and the competitive exams hovers over them. The pressure on the students is not only on the boards but also on the competitive exams as they want good marks on the mark sheet as well as they want to secure a good rank to get into a good college. This ensures a successful life ahead for them.

It is important to understand the difference between the board exam and the competitive exams and a smart student who understands this difference and shifts gears accordingly for preparation. Though juggling between the class XII and competitive exams is a herculean task, one should know that the Class XII has a specified syllabus in comparison to the entrance exam where their aptitude is put into test.

There is a dire need to build a strategic balance between both the exams in order to excel. Few Strategies that a student can follow to have a comfortable shift between the board exam and the competitive exams are:

  1. Make a Time Table – While it seems easy to say to make a timetable but it is as difficult to follow it. Thus, every student needs to follow the set routine and revision plan accordingly. It is not advisable to make drastic changes in the pre-existing timetable at this hour as this can lead to difficulties in adjusting to the new regime. But at the same time systematic approach helps the students to understand the weaker sections providing a scope of improvement.
  2. Attend Mock exams – In order to check their preparation levels students are advised to take regular mock tests which also assist in identifying the weak areas and focus level. Since the structure of both boards and competitive exams are way different, with Boards following a traditional pattern, while entrance follows the strategy of Multiple-Choice Questions. This practice will allow you to identify the basic and higher-level questions of a particular topic and subject overall.
  3. Learn the art of Correlation – Overlapping of topics is one of the post probable outcomes while simultaneous preparation. It is important to identify such topics and cover at the earliest in order to segregate ample time to other important topics as well, which not only saves time but brings out positive results for both the exams.
  4. Follow a stress-free pattern – A stress-free mind is the gateway to success, so any student should refrain from getting stressed about the exam. Instead try to find out time for recreational activities and rejuvenate the mind towards your goal. Meditation is one such thing that a student should inculcate in their daily activities.
  5. Maintain a positive outlook – it is absolutely important to stay away from negative thought during the preparation. There are chances that people surrounding may feed in negative thoughts, distractions and panic. In such situations believe in yourself and have faith in the efforts you have put in during all these days of preparation.

A proper expert guidance is always essential for a student to concentrate on quality preparation and not on time spent during preparation. A calm mind always has a better chance to reach its destination. Avoid last-minute studying anything new. A student should also disrupt his/her sleeping pattern and should incorporate things like yoga and other activities to keep you happy.

Education, News

Challenges for Primary School Kids in the Changing Education System

Dec 29, 2020 by Rekha Nair 0 Comments #Ankit Kapoor, #City Montessori School, #Delhi, #Dr. Narjeet Kaur, #Head Mistress Guru Harkrishan Public School, #HOD, #Lucknow, #Managing Director, #Mrs. Sushma Rajkuamr, #Ms. Ritika Anand, #Pratham Test Prep, #St. Mark’s Sr Sec Public School, #Vice Principal

New Delhi:  The Education Leaders Confluence 2020 (ELC) organised on “Challenges for Primary School Kids in the Changing Education System”, the confluence was organised by Pratham Test prep, the confluence focuses on holistic development and has also restructured and re-engineered modules to cater to children right from middle school to help them understand the importance of aptitude building.

The ELC 2020 constitutes a series of talks and discussions, conducted to hear out the experts and discuss various issues and opportunities available in the education sector. Even though India has made significant progress on access to schooling and admissions in primary education, the on-going pandemic has brought new challenges in front of the education system especially in India where we are still in the process to learn and improve. The low levels of learning remain the biggest challenge for the state and the central government.

ELC 20 was aimed to bring thought leaders together and bring to light various aspects of the education system and the need to uplift society. The discussion was graced by eminent panelists that included, Dr. Narjeet Kaur, Head Mistress Guru Harkrishan Public School, Delhi, Mrs. Sushma Rajkuamr, HOD, City Montessori School, Lucknow, and Ms. Ritika Anand, Vice Principal, St. Mark’s Sr Sec Public School, Delhi.

“COVID-19 has provided us the opportunity to sow the seeds of creating a more empathetic, humane population that our primary students need to be educated in such a way. There is a paradigm shift witnessed in the education sector in India for the last few months due to the pandemic. The teachers had to adapt to e-learning leaving the traditional way of teaching. Many teachers were reluctant of this adaption, but there was no way out and the result was new innovative ways to teach to make the class engaging and interesting.” Said Ankit Kapoor, Managing Director, Pratham Test Prep.

In India there are several challenges related to the student-teacher ratios, infrastructure, and lack of training amongst teachers. In India, the government has to think of ways and mediums to provide teacher training so that overall development is provided to the students.

“Education is the process that aids learning, acquiring knowledge and skills to one’s character. In testing times of pandemics, the mode of education has changed by the advent of new technologies. The rise of affordable internet has made education easy and accessible to every corner of the world and the Interactive learning approach has made the availability of education at the comfort of our home.” Said Dr. Narjeet Kaur, Head Mistress Guru Harkrishan Public School, Delhi

The use of technology in education will change the way teachers teach and students learn, but not wash away the need of teachers for a student. Guru Drona was in possession of an indestructible sword along with innumerable arrows in his quiver. Likewise, the Gurus of today have technology as one of the arrows or probably it’s their invincible sword!”

“The mundane ways of teaching will be out-dated and it will offer real-life learning opportunities that will diminish what is taught in the classrooms and the real-life requirements. The traditional methods will see a transformation. Technology is not here to replace the teacher who was, is, will be the GURU- Dispeller of Darkness.” said Ms. Ritika Anand, Vice Principal, St. Mark’s Sr Sec Public School, Delhi

Highlighting the importance of vernacular content, the confluence also laid stress on the new and variety of content as a resource to quality education and learning. Since it seems difficult for some schools in rural areas, there is a dire need to focus on the quality of content where the platforms are devoid of it.

“2020 has been a year when teachers and teaching came into focus. Big gains have happened in terms of methods, attitudes & relationships. As we now begin to prepare for returning to school, I sincerely hope that all the positives are sustained and schools and teachers are valued for the service they give to society”. concluded Mrs. Sushma Rajkuamr, HOD, City Montessori School, Lucknow.

Rivial Data Security Releases New Cybersecurity Platform
Business World

Cyber Etiquette among the millennials, an important aspect in online education

Nov 9, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #Ankit Kapoor, #Cyber Etiquette, #Education Leader Confluence 2020, #Mrs Rupkatha Sarkar, #Mrs. Archana Rodrigues, #Mrs. Veena Goel, #Pratham Test Prep, #Saurabh Nanda

Continuing the series of Education Leader Confluence 2020 (ELC-20), Pratham Test Prep successfully conducted yet another fruitful discussion in its second session of the confluence with a very important discussion on “Cyber Etiquette for the New Generation”.

The second episode of ELC 20 is a sequel of the previous ‘The Principal Round Table’ event moderated by the renowned counsellor and career advisor, Saurabh Nanda. The discussion was graced by a set of eminent panellists – Principals from various schools, who with their immense knowledge and knowhow made this session a fruitful and enriching event.

“The digital world is fast-changing and it is difficult for everyone to keep pace with ever-changing technology. The millennials are always more tech-savvy than their previous generations. Yet, they are easy targets for cybercriminals. More than 50% millennials are affected in India by cybercrime and the picture is the same globally too. In view of the same, Cyber Etiquette is essentially the same etiquette we follow while interacting with people offline. Children need to be taught about insensitive behaviour online. Appropriate online behaviour has to be a part of our culture. Etiquette is something we teach our students at school and at home as it is an integral part of everyone’s life.” Said Ankit Kapoor, Managing Director, Pratham Test Prep.

The discussion around the quality of higher education in India has been gaining momentum, with emphasis laid on the skills development and etiquettes. This confluence is one such session that revolves around the issues and opportunities available in the education sector.

“Education is being revolutionized exponentially for the past 8 months, with the internet evolving as a key player in achieving learning outcomes. While this process has its positive highlights, a cautious and judicious approach would be beneficial; augmented with continued and ongoing training for all stakeholders in the education scenario. The teachers, parents, and students’ communication channels need to be energized, and bonding further strengthened. Ensuring web-savvy parents and teachers would keep the students constantly and constructively engaged and safe from cyber risks.” Said Mrs. Archana Rodrigues, Principal, St Joseph’s High School, Mumbai

With the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus, there has been a major shift in mindset as well as the usage of electronic media. This confluence is a platform to bring thought leaders together and bring to light various aspects of the education system and the need to uplift society.

“The smallest instance of cyberbullying should be taken seriously as an aberrant behaviour and sensitization should be done with steps to equip students and adults in cyber etiquette. We should also make them aware of the fact that whatever is posted online remains there for a very long time,” said Mrs Rupkatha Sarkar, Principal, La Martiniere for Girls, Kolkata

Cyberbullying is one of the major challenges in a students’ life which should not be overlooked. It should be of utmost importance to tell the students about the repercussions of the same.

“The medium as dynamic as the INTERNET should be used to its optimal level. Digital media should be used as a tool to teach the learners to think and create not to fantasize and destroy. It is the need of the hour for everyone to understand the various forms and ways to keep them safeguarded from CYBERCRIME. strong passwords should be used and children should talk to parents or teachers regarding this situation.” said Mrs. Veena Goel, Principal Apeejay School, Pitampura

Pratham Test prep which has been conducting workshops and seminars on this topic to help students to understand various aspects of cyberbullying, the on-going confluence is also an initiative in this direction.

students
Education

Why go for International Undergraduate Education and how do we get to the best?

Oct 1, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #Ankit Kapoor, #International Undergraduate Education, #PRATHAM International Education Desk

Ankit Kapoor, Managing Director, PRATHAM International Education Desk

While education remains a vital part of any individual’s life span, that not only assists in providing a threshold to a flourishing career but also broadens the horizon to give a positive outlook to their personality. Analyzing the estimated students for undergraduate programs, around 9 crores in senior secondary level and nearly 3.5 crores in higher education. But devoid of availability of quality higher education institutions in India, the number of students opting for the best higher education remains in incongruity, leading to a steady outflow of the Indian Students for International Education.

Attributing to a plethora of quite obvious reasons like Emotional control, financial budget, dependent nature of the child, culture, and lifestyle of various countries, and most importantly unawareness, parents were earlier hesitant to send their kids abroad, as seen historically. The demand for high-quality education fuelled by a rising and stable economic condition in the country has managed to make this idea turn into a reality for many.

Students these days are opting for higher education in a foreign destination. However, abundant options and too many choices make this dream a challenge for many to achieve. According to UNESCO, there has been an increase of 163% in the International applications for higher education from India and since 2014, India has outpaced China in International student mobility. These impressive figures are backed by even more staggering totals.

Why Indian students’ International Mobility on rise?

When you look at the kind of course combinations that are provided by international universities today, they will definitely attract any student who is willing to explore possibilities through various courses or inculcate experience by mixing with international peer groups. Imagine studying Arts and Business together at the University of Waterloo under a course called “Honors Arts and Business” or studying Psychology with Linguistics at University College London.

But a student aiming to go abroad for education should consider factors that include languages known, budget, aptitude, suitable country, and future plans. Many students due to incomplete research end up getting an admission in a university of less credibility.

As far as financing the education is concerned, today most students look at affordable universities with part-time work opportunities in order to be able to fund their living cost. The bigger question, however, remains what exactly are the top universities looking for in their students which requires expert guidance and assistance.

What to know while applying for an International UG course?

The specialized team is required to provide holistic guidance on the choice of universities, profile building, deadlines, university application, visa processing, and even financial planning to study and get into the world’s best universities. Providing with a seamless experience to the students and the parents, it is with immense pleasure and delight that Pratham test prep has so far in its 11 years of expertise, showcased 100% application and visa success and have successfully placed students in world top universities such as the University of Toronto, University of Melbourne, University of Hong Kong, National University of Singapore, and Germany many more to list, who have been awarded scholarships.

It is important for a student to understand the importance of building a profile. If one studies the student profiles accepted in top universities across the world there are a few common traits within the students:

  1. Concern for community: if you do not bother for people or conditions around you and do not have an urge to improve situations, probably an expensive education in a top university is of no good to you.
  2. Interest towards the course: Prove it to the university that you are keenly interested in the subject that you are applying to, Only exceptional academic scores in the subject might not be enough in this regard, rather your participation in subject-based Olympiads, quizzes or taking higher-level courses may be worthwhile.
  3. Leadership and Risk-Taking capacities: Very common skill in sophomores of top-notch universities across the world. If you have the capacity of taking the initiative and leading others towards a positive movement, it means a lot to the universities as they can see a change-maker in you.
  4. Research Capacity: Universities are under pressure today for external research funding and therefore they require more and more people who have the capability of taking up extensive research projects. Those students who have exhibited the quality at school or college level would definitely reap the benefits.

Proper guidance helps in aspiring to bring out the best in its students by ethically guiding them and helping them build up their profiles to crack the world’s top universities with scholarships. Motivating the students to choose the best courses as per their potential and evaluate their profile to provide the information based on a wide range of courses and options available across the world, is one of the important traits. Overall, one must understand those top universities today are looking for nothing less than a unique individual.

Thus, the importance lies here in balancing academics with a proper set of planned activities which enhances the profile of the applicant and the process for this can begin as early as class IX.