Key Takeaways:
- ShiftED 2024, hosted by GradRight, is a major event for students aiming to study abroad.
- Over 4,000 students, 24 universities, and 8 financial partners participated.
- The event focused on transparency, trust, and accountability in global higher education.
- Deans and Directors from top universities like Washington University and Lehigh University attended.
- ShiftED offered master classes and breakout sessions on visa issues, cultural adaptation, and work-study opportunities.
GradRight successfully hosted the second edition of its flagship event, ShiftED 2024, on December 7. This event aimed to empower prospective international students. It brought together a diverse group of over 4,000 students, 8 financial partners, and 24 leading foreign universities.
Industry leaders addressed critical issues affecting students worldwide. These included transparency, trust, and accountability in the global higher education ecosystem.
Deans and Directors of Admissions from prestigious institutions such as Washington University in St. Louis, Lehigh University, and Rutgers University attended the event. They engaged in insightful discussions and shared their expertise.
Building an Ecosystem of Trust
ShiftED 2024 emphasized creating an ecosystem where students are empowered. They are supported by student-centered universities and equity-focused financial institutions.
"Trust is transformative," said the Director of Strategic Communications at GradRight. This sentiment was echoed throughout the event, highlighting the importance of transparent communication in supporting students' aspirations. The only way to create equilibrium in the higher education sector is to ensure the success of every stakeholder, especially the students.
Financial Partnerships and Opportunities
Financial institutions like HDFC Credila, ICICI Bank, Prodigy Finance, and IDFC First Bank were present. They provided students with valuable information on funding options.
Sonal Kapoor, Chief Commercial Officer at Prodigy Finance, stated that events like ShiftED 2024 play a vital role in fostering collaboration among students, universities, and financial institutions. This collaboration empowers students with clarity and tools to make informed decisions.
Addressing Student Concerns
ShiftED 2024 offered more than just networking opportunities. Universities provided master classes and breakout room sessions.
These sessions focused on overcoming obstacles like visa restrictions and adapting to a foreign environment. Information about work-study and research opportunities was also provided.
For students interested in exploring similar opportunities, the Master's Scholarships for International Students at the University of Amsterdam in 2025 and Master's Scholarships for International Students at Utrecht University in 2025 provide excellent pathways for studying abroad.
Looking Ahead
Sasidhar Sista, Co-founder at GradRight, mentioned that efforts were stepped up this year to address existing trust gaps. This was done through insightful, mission-driven conversations with all stakeholders, including students.
ShiftED 2024 set a precedent for future events. It showed a commitment to fostering a supportive and transparent environment for international students.
"We really are creating a shift in international higher education," said a GradRight representative. This shift has the potential to impact millions of students and institutions worldwide for decades to come.
For those aiming to study in the United States, understanding the need-blind admissions policy at Notre Dame could be beneficial. Similarly, Washington and Lee's shift to need-blind admissions offers another avenue for prospective students.