In the previous episode of Students Speak, We covered Kayalvizhi Senthil Kumar’s academic journey so far, university, course, and her inspiration to pursue higher education. In this episode, let’s understand interesting aspects such as the factors that led her to select Germany, what she knows about Germany, her research, and English proficiency exams.

Key highlights:

• Factors that led her to select Germany
• What she knows about Germany
• Her research
• English proficiency exams

Factors that led her to select Germany

Kayalvizhi has always dreamed of studying in Germany, which is her favourite destination. Secondly, it is a popular Engineering hotspot and holds a huge potential to commence her career. As she has already worked with a service-based company, she is interested in exploring product-based organisations, and Germany is buzzing with some leading businesses in Engineering.

Kayalvizhi also shared that it was difficult to get through public universities for Management courses as she has an IT background. Securing a seat in a public university in Germany for a cross-major like hers is difficult. She had applied for Engineering Management at some public universities, too, but what worked for her was a private university.

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What she knows about Germany

Since Kayalvizhi will be staying in Germany until her course is completed, she has already acquainted herself with various aspects of the country. For instance, in Germany, Sundays are designated as a day of rest, so supermarkets are closed every Sunday. Therefore, she is planning to finish her grocery shopping on Saturday to avoid running out of essentials. Also, students are allowed to work part-time for 120 to 140 full days or 240 to 280 half days per year. This information will assist her with her stay in Germany.

Her research

Kayalvizhi conducted thorough desktop research via search engines and social media websites, and her father too constantly supported her by guiding her in her research. Additionally, she approached an education consultancy, which provided her with expert advice. The consultant shared that multiple universities are available for admission in her chosen domain. The two-pronged approach helped her zero in on her dream university and her preferred course.

Also Read: How to Select the Right University for Your Study Abroad Journey

English proficiency exams

Study abroad aspirants have to appear for English proficiency exams such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), Pearson Test of English (PTE) or Duolingo English Test (DET). Kayalvizhi appeared for IELTS and scored well to easily get through the German university admission process. She invested 10 days in IELTS preparation and managed to achieve an impressive score. She suggested that students must focus on the basic concepts of Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking sections. Taking as many mock tests as possible is essential for success in exams.

Furthermore, she shared an interesting perspective that although the German language is not mandatory, it will be beneficial for students to learn the basics to communicate with the locals or during internships and part-time jobs.

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So, in this episode, we have captured the factors that led Kayalvizhi to select Germany, what she knows about Germany, her research, and English proficiency exams. In the next episode, we will cover entrance exams, her experience with her education loan partner, her student loan repayment plans, and her invaluable tips for study abroad aspirants. Meanwhile, if you have any queries, please feel free to connect with us.