BlueSky Education Blogs

Studying abroad offers an opportunity to explore different cultures, build new relationships, and gain knowledge and skills unavailable in your home country. However, maximising your study abroad experience requires more than just attending classes and exploring your new surroundings.  This article will explore various exciting ideas to serve you make the most of your study abroad experience. 1. Learn the Language Learning the local language is one of the best means to fully immerse yourself in the local culture and gain a deeper understanding of the people and their way of life. Take advantage of language classes, exchanges, and immersion programs, like an English study tour, to improve your language skills and communicate more effectively with the locals. 2. Join a Club or Organization Joining a local club or organisation is great for meeting new people who share your interests. Whether it’s a sports team, a student organisation, or a volunteer group, getting involved in extracurricular activities can help you make the most of your study abroad experience and develop new skills. 3. Take Advantage of Academic Opportunities Studying abroad is about more than just exploring new cultures and meeting new people. It’s also about gaining valuable academic knowledge and skills. Take advantage of academic opportunities like internships, research projects, adult study tours, and language classes to enhance your educational experience and gain practical skills that will benefit you. 4. Enrol in Short-term, Skills-based Programmes Enrolling in short-term, skills-based programs can enhance your study abroad experience and help you develop practical skills. These programs can range from language courses to internships and volunteer opportunities. They provide a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience and boost your resume. Look for programs that align with your academic and career goals, and see how they can help you academically and individually. 5. Try New Foods Food is a massive part of any culture; trying new foods is a great way to experience it. There are many options, whether trying local street food or going to a fancy restaurant. This is also a great way to bond with locals and try more about their culture. 6. Travel as Much as You Can Studying abroad provides a fantastic opportunity to travel to new places and explore different cultures. Make the most of this opportunity by travelling as much as you can. Plan weekend trips to nearby cities or countries, and use your breaks to explore new places. This will not only help you see more of the world, but it will also help you develop a greater appreciation for the diversity of cultures and people. 7. Attend Cultural Events Attending cultural events is another excellent way to immerse yourself in a new culture. Look for events like festivals, concerts, and art exhibits that showcase local traditions and customs. This will allow you to experience the culture more authentically and bring you opportunities to meet new people and make friends. 8. Be Open-Minded It’s essential to be open-minded when studying abroad. You’ll be exposed to new cultures, customs, and ways of life. Embrace these differences and try to learn as much as you can. This is also a great way to broaden your perspective and gain a new understanding of the world. 9. Keep a Journal Keeping a journal is an excellent approach to documenting your experiences and reflecting on your study abroad journey. You can write down your thoughts, feelings, and observations about the new culture and how it differs from your home country. This will help you appreciate the uniqueness of the local culture and the opportunities that come with studying abroad. 10. Take Lots of Photos Photos-taking is a great way to capture your study abroad experience. There are plenty of chances to take photos of your new friends, the local scenery, or the food you’ve tried. This is also a great way to share your experiences with friends and family back home. 11. Try New Things Studying abroad is the perfect time to leave your safe zone and experience something new. Whether trying fresh food or learning a new skill through adult study tours, don’t be afraid to take risks and explore new opportunities. You might discover a new passion or interest. 12. Stay with a Host Family Staying with your host family is an excellent means to immerse yourself in the local culture and practice your language skills. Living with a local family will give you a unique perspective on the culture and customs of the country. Host families can also provide valuable support and guidance during your study abroad experience. 13. Make Friends with Locals and Other International Students Making friends with locals and other international students is an excellent means to expand your social circle and learn more about the local culture. Attend social events, join clubs and organisations, and participate in group activities to meet new people and make lasting connections. 14. Keep a Line with Family and Friends Back Home Studying abroad can be a lonely experience for some, especially if you’re far away from family and friends. Stay in touch with your loved ones back home by scheduling regular phone calls and video chats. You’ll feel more connected to home and have a support system to turn to if you need it. 15. Stay Connected with Your Host Country After you return home, staying connected with your host country and the people you met, there is essential. Stay in touch with the connections you made, follow the news and current events in the country, and continue to learn about the local culture. This will help you maintain the valuable connections and experiences you gained while studying abroad. 16. Reflect on Your Experience Finally, take the time to reflect on your study abroad experience. What did you learn about yourself and the world around you? How did your time abroad impact your personal and academic goals? Reflecting on your experience can help you further understand yourself and your place in the world. Conclusion Studying abroad is

Singapore is an attractive destination for international students looking to pursue higher education. With its high-quality education system, multicultural society, and strong economy,  The country offers ample opportunities for students to grow and succeed in both their academic and professional pursuits. However, before deciding to study in Singapore, there are several important factors that international students should consider. In this article, let’s explore those factors and tips that can help if you wish to study in Singapore. Essential Things to Consider Academic Requirements The first step for international students interested in studying in Singapore is to research the academic requirements for their chosen program. Different universities may have different admission requirements, such as minimum GPA, standardised test scores, and language proficiency. Therefore, it is essential to carefully review the admission criteria for each university and program to ensure that the student meets the requirements. Financial Considerations International students should also consider the cost of studying in Singapore. Tuition fees for international students can be significantly higher than those for local students, and living expenses in Singapore can also be quite high.  Students should factor in the cost of accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses when planning their budget. Scholarships and financial aid may be available to international students, so researching and applying for these opportunities can help alleviate the financial burden. Visa Requirements International students will need a student visa to study in Singapore. The visa application process can be lengthy and may require additional documentation such as proof of financial support, medical examinations, and criminal background checks. It is important to start the visa application process early to ensure enough time to complete all the necessary steps before the start of the academic year. Language Proficiency English is the primary language of instruction in Singapore, but international students may still need to demonstrate proficiency in English. Most universities require international students to take an English language proficiency test such as the TOEFL or IELTS. Some universities may also offer English language courses for students who need additional support. Culture Shock International students may experience culture shock when studying in Singapore. Singapore is a multicultural society with a diverse population, but it may still be different from the student’s home country. Students should be prepared to adapt to new customs, food, and social norms. Universities may offer orientation programs and support services to help international students adjust to their new environment. Academic Culture The academic culture in Singapore may also be different from what international students are used to. Singaporean universities tend to have a more structured and disciplined approach to education, focusing on academic excellence and achievement. Students should be prepared to work hard and manage their time effectively to meet rigorous academic demands. Career Opportunities One of the benefits of studying in Singapore is the opportunity to gain valuable work experience and build professional networks. Singapore has a strong economy with a growing job market in various industries, including finance, technology, and healthcare. International students can find internships or part-time jobs while studying, which can help them develop their skills and gain practical experience. Tips on Studying Abroad in Singapore 1. Research the Education System Before studying abroad in Singapore, it is important to research the education system and the specific university or institution that you will be attending. This includes understanding the academic requirements, grading system, and teaching methods. By better understanding Singapore’s education system, you can better prepare for your studies and excel academically. 2. Be Prepared for the Weather Singapore is known for its hot and humid weather throughout the year. International students should be prepared to dress appropriately and stay hydrated while attending classes, exploring the city, or participating in outdoor activities. 3. Make Use of Campus Resources Most universities in Singapore offer a variety of resources and services to support international students, such as academic advisors, career services, and counselling services. Take advantage of these resources to help you succeed academically and personally. 4. Immerse Yourself in the Culture Singapore is a multicultural society with a rich history and diverse population. Make an effort to immerse yourself in the local culture by trying new foods, learning about local customs and traditions, and attending cultural events and festivals. 5. Learn the Language While English is the primary language of instruction in Singapore, other languages are spoken in the country, such as Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil. Learning the local language can help you better communicate with locals and immerse yourself in the culture. 6. Stay Connected with Family and Friends Studying abroad can be a lonely experience, especially if you are far away from family and friends. Stay connected with your loved ones through regular communication, such as phone calls or video chats. You can also join student organisations or clubs to meet new people and make friends. 7. Take Advantage of Travel Opportunities Singapore is located in Southeast Asia, making it an excellent location for international students to explore other countries. Take advantage of the travel opportunities to explore other cultures, learn new languages, and gain a broader understanding of the world. 8. Be Prepared for Homesickness Homesickness is a common experience for international students studying abroad. To cope with homesickness, stay connected with your loved ones, participate in social activities, and take care of your physical and emotional health. 9. Manage Your Finances Singapore can be an expensive city to live in, especially for international students. To manage your finances, create a budget and stick to it, look for part-time job opportunities, and take advantage of student discounts and promotions. 10. Stay Safe Singapore is generally a safe country, but taking precautions to ensure your safety is still important. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and familiarise yourself with local emergency services. The Bottom Line Studying in Singapore can be a rewarding experience for international students. With proper planning and preparation, international students can succeed academically and professionally in Singapore while enjoying the country’s rich cultural experiences. These

Introduction Are you looking for the perfect Study Abroad Programme? Are you considering a study programme in Green Technology? If so, BlueSky Education is the ideal choice for you. BlueSky Education has been providing exceptional international education and study abroad opportunities for more than a decade. With their renowned EduXperience, they offer students an unparalleled opportunity to explore and experience some of the best sights and cultures the world has to offer. BlueSky Education is a global education provider with a mission to provide access to enriched learning experiences that inspire and prepare students for success in the 21st century. Working with industry professionals, including academics, consultants, and coordinators that work together to create innovative and dynamic learning experiences. Our comprehensive services and support systems provide students with the necessary guidance and resources to achieve their educational goals. At BlueSky Education, our priority is to ensure that each student has the best possible learning experience. We strive to provide the most comprehensive and innovative study abroad programme to give students the best possible chance of success. The programme is conducted in English. BlueSky Education has a strong commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for all students. In addition to their comprehensive support systems, they have established strict safety protocols and risk management procedures to ensure that all students are safe and secure throughout their stay abroad. Students will also benefit from the availability of health and medical insurance, to further protect them in case of any unforeseen circumstances. BlueSky Education also offers a variety of extracurricular activities and cultural events, giving students the chance to explore and experience the unique culture and history of the host country. From unique cultural activities to sightseeing tours to sports and recreational activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Need to find the right Study Abroad Programme? With BlueSky Education, you know that you are choosing a global leader in international education, with a commitment to excellence and a proven track record of success (You may view our student reviews on Google). With their renowned EduXperience, students can look forward to an enriching and rewarding experience abroad. With BlueSky Education, you can be sure that you will get the best possible Study Abroad Programme. Why You Should Choose BlueSky Education For A Study Abroad Programme In Green Technology When looking for a quality study abroad programme to help you gain knowledge and skills in green technology, BlueSky Education should be one of your top choices. BlueSky Education is a leader in providing students with an immersive and meaningful experience for learning about green technology in an international setting. The study abroad program they offer allows students to gain a unique perspective on green technology, as well as a comprehensive understanding of the subject. What Is Green Technology? Green technology is an umbrella term for any technology designed with the goal of minimizing negative impacts on the environment. It is a rapidly growing field of research, with a wide range of applications from environmental remediation and renewable energy to sustainable building materials and green construction. Why Should You Choose BlueSky Education For A Study Abroad Programme In Green Technology? Through partnerships with leading universities, BlueSky Education offers a range of activities in our green technology that are designed to give students a comprehensive understanding of a range of topics related to green technology. The programme structure includes a variety of areas such as renewable energy, green building materials, energy efficiency, and sustainable design. Students who participate in the programme will also have the opportunity to take part in hands-on activities such as field trips to green technology facilities and research labs. Furthermore, BlueSky Education is committed to providing its students with a safe and secure learning environment. The programme is designed to ensure that the students are in a safe and secure environment at all times, allowing them to focus on their studies and experience new cultures without worrying about safety and security. In sum, BlueSky Education’s study abroad programme in green technology is an excellent option for those interested in gaining knowledge and skills in green technology. The programme offers an immersive and meaningful experience for learning about green technology in an international setting, providing students with a unique opportunity to gain knowledge and develop a deep understanding of green technology. The EduXperience: What Makes BlueSky Education The Best Choice The EduXperience from BlueSky Education is an innovative concept for international students to gain a superior experience in study abroad. The concept is the culmination of over 25 years of experience with global learning, and it’s what makes BlueSky Education the best choice for your study abroad programme in green technology. The EduXperience also offers students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the green technology sector. Through field activities, students can gain experience in the development, implementation, and management of green technology solutions. The EduXperience from BlueSky Education is a comprehensive programme that will equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to become leaders in the green technology sector. With access to leading experts, cutting-edge resources, and a dedicated team, BlueSky Education is the best choice for your study abroad programme in green technology. What To Expect From A Study Travel Programme With BlueSky Education When choosing a study abroad programme, you want to make sure that you are getting the best possible experience. BlueSky Education offers a variety of study travel programmes to ensure that you have the best possible experience. What Is A Study Travel Programme? A study travel programme is an educational experience that combines traditional classroom learning with travel to other countries or regions. It allows students to explore different countries and cultures, while also learning advanced skills related to their field of study. BlueSky Education offers study abroad programmes in a variety of countries, with programmes ranging from one to four weeks. What Can You Expect From A Study Travel Programme With BlueSky Education? A study travel programme with BlueSky Education

Ryan McQuade, graduate from the University of Sydney with 10 years experience in the education sector is to take over operations in Australia.

2020 is an exciting year for BlueSky Education. Over the past 2 years our little business has expanded rapidly and we thought that it was time we refreshed our look to keep up with our ever growing brand. We are very excited to have our new logo now in action along with this brand new website which will hopefully make booking camps easier for those who are coming as individuals instead of groups.  Along with our rebranding we are adding lots of extra features to camps to make sure that our students get the absolute best experience we can offer. This includes updated lesson plans, new student booklets and pre-camp materials to name but a few things.  We have some very cool new t-shirts too for all of our students to take home with them after the programme is finished so we are excited for our first group of 2020 to come and try them out!  We can’t wait to welcome our 2020 students this year with our new branding in tow!

Last week some of our BlueSky staff attended the International & Bilingual China Schools Conference 2020. Due to  Covid-19 this event was held online this year but it definitely didn’t disappoint!  We were treated to talks on how the education industry is coping in the midst of the pandemic, how technology is impacting learning and what the future holds for students and schools moving forward.  It was also a great opportunity for us to talk with international schools and partners to help us understand this side of the industry in more depth so that we can offer our clients the best possible programmes to suit their needs.  At BlueSky, we are constantly learning, just like our students and meeting with people within the industry helps us grow as a company to make sure we are offering the most cutting edge programmes for our students. As always our academic team of experts are hard at work designing new programmes and content, incorporating what we learned from experts across the industry. We look forward to continuing to offer high quality academic content and look forward to welcoming all of our students back either virtually or in person. 

In an increasingly globalized world, there is no doubt gaining an international education and a global perspective is a high-value asset for students. It can be difficult at times to see the tangible benefits of studying abroad, especially for shorter programmes that are a little better than trumped-up sightseeing trips with slight educational overtones. This is further exacerbated by high costs and geopolitical issues, especially over the last few years and in the wake of covid. When students participate in a good program there are numerous benefits students will enjoy in their personal lives, in school, and professionally. In this post, I want to go over some of the benefits that students can gain from studying abroad, whatever their age and wherever they go. Now I might be a bit biased because I did several study abroad trips through school and even did my Master’s overseas, but studying abroad is one of the biggest and easiest advantages for students to seize in an increasingly competitive job and university candidacy market.  Insights into Foreign Universities and Majors One of the hardest parts about planning for university is figuring out what you’re going to study in the first place, let alone where you’re going to go. There are so many options in terms of majors and schools, with massive financial consequences for making the wrong decision, from student loan debt to being stuck in a field that you don’t enjoy or doesn’t pay dividends on your initial investment. Going on a study tour before university is a great way to offset some of these risks. By visiting a country before you enter university you can learn about the universities in that country as well as popular majors and truly good study tours will include opportunities to interact with local students giving students a firsthand look at what they can expect from university life. At BlueSky, we endeavour to give every student the opportunity to meet with students from the area of study they’re interested in so they can make the crucial decision of their major with confidence.  Building Resilience and Self-reliance Leaving home for the first time can be a big shock for students, especially if they have no experience living outside their parents’ home. Studying abroad gives students the opportunity to live abroad and develop more independent life skills, and parents can be at ease knowing that on most study abroad trips 24 hour support is only a phone call away. Ordering at restaurants, asking directions and just living everyday life in a foreign country is going to be a massive boost to students’ self-confidence and resilience. Building an Understanding of Foreign Culture and Business Perhaps the most immediate benefit of studying abroad is gaining an appreciation for and understanding of foreign cultures, and importantly, that knowledge of how business in that country is conducted. Gaining a deeper understanding of a culture through first-hand experience is going to provide invaluable insight in the future. Many study abroad programs now include business elements such as company tours, talks, and internships, further solidifying these benefits. Students will also be exposed to new ideas and ways of doing things that they can incorporate into their own lives giving them a host of advantages over their peers.  Building a Global Network This one follows from the previous point but is one that not a lot of people think of when they think about why students should study abroad, and that is the opportunity to start building a network of global connections before even leaving school. It’s an age-old adage in business that networks are the key to success. While visiting other countries students will have the opportunity to make friends who will not only broaden their perspectives but also create networks that can be invaluable professionally and boost future employability wherever students go. Good study abroad programmes will give students multiple opportunities to interact with students, not only during the program but also during online pre and post-learning online sessions where students will be able to cement and continue to develop these relationships.  Higher Employability and Better Admissions to Universities and Grad Schools It’s no doubt that today students are facing far fiercer competition for university positions and jobs than they ever have in the past, from home and abroad. Many universities today have acceptance rates below 10% and competition for jobs at major companies is even worse. Having gone on study tours or having studied abroad make an excellent addition to any student’s resume and helps them to stand out in a crowded field. You don’t have to take my word for it, job agencies consistently emphasize the importance of international travel and global perspective for candidates.  Improved Language and Communication Skills Lastly, let’s not forget perhaps the biggest benefit of studying abroad, improving your language skills. Ask anyone learning a foreign language and they will tell you they learned a lot more a lot faster by immersing themselves in the language and culture than they ever did in a classroom. Not to say that there isn’t value in studying a language at home but students will learn a lot faster and gain a deeper understanding of the language than they ever could in the classroom at home. Communicating does more than just improve a student’s ability to speak that language, taking students out of their element and exposing them to a host of new cultures, customs and experiences is going not only improve their ability to communicate in that country’s particular language but make them an all-around better communicator, in any language.  I hope this helps illustrate some of the key benefits of study abroad and sparks some interest in offering these kinds of opportunities to your students. Personally, I wouldn’t trade the experiences I had studying internationally for anything in the world, and given the opportunity and the right program, your students will love it too. At BlueSky Education, we build our programs around helping students develop real-world skills that they

  There is no denying that education has changed dramatically over the past year due to covid 19. More than 1.5 billion students were affected worldwide according to UNESCO with many of those turning to online learning as their main source of education. Although there has been a rapid increase since the pandemic, there was already an emerging trend of education turning to online learning as a way to supplement and enhance traditional learning.  According to a 2002 Sloan Foundation survey less than 50% of education institutions expected online learning to be part of their ongoing educational plan whereas by 2011 that number had risen to 66% and by 2013 90% of students were anticipated to take at least one online course in the coming years. This highlights the growing understanding that online learning has within education, it’s simply now that people are starting to really take notice.  So, looking forward, how will studying abroad be affected by this change to online learning? How can studying abroad and travelling to a different country be synonymous with online learning and staying at home? It’s time to think outside the box and see how you can make both works to your advantage.      Structured Camps vs Flexible Learning: Studying abroad will always be a constant within the industry, there is simply no replacing jumping on a plane and discovering a new culture, learning a new language and creating unforgettable memories. However for some students, this will be too expensive or too much of a commitment away from home and therefore instead of missing out on a client, you should be thinking of alternatives for those students in an online capacity. Flexibility is key for online learning, don’t forget that.      Expensive vs Cost-effective: We all know that studying abroad isn’t cheap with only the middle classes being able to send students abroad. Online education opens up the doors to a wider range of students and with them a wider range of clients to offer programmes. The cost-effective nature and scalability of online programmes mean that although the profit margin may be less, the possibilities are endless. Just think, no visa or flights to organising, no group leaders or welcome orientation meetings before the camp, online means quick and easy for everyone involved. The content can still be high quality but the ease of accessing that content is much simpler and far more scalable.         Physical vs Online Programmes: Online learning has come on leaps and bounds in the past few years and rapidly improved in the past year because of the global pandemic. What used to be considered dull can now offer a multitude of learning opportunities and there is no reason that it can’t be just as valuable to students as a physical programme. The past year has made the transition to online programmes in combination with study tours easier with people understanding the concept and being open to new ideas much more than they were previously. Online programmes that we have offered at BlueSky include international online exchanges, virtual homestays, ModelUN, Video Game Design, University Taster Lectures, Culture Classes and even Yoga! Honestly, the opportunities are endless if you don’t place limits on yourself and on your students. They are much more willing to change and adopt new ideas than they might have previously been.     Stand-alone vs Blended Learning: Online learning can come in many forms. It can be a standalone lesson or course focusing on a particular topic or learning point. However, it can also be part of a blended learning platform combining study abroad with online learning. For students to get the most out of their study abroad programme, a few sessions before their trip online could be the perfect way to complement the camp and prepare students for what they will expect both linguistically, practically and culturally. For parents it provides peace of mind, for agents it provides extra income and for students it provides the opportunity to get excited about their upcoming adventure – talk about a win, win, win!