This is You!
You’ve just been accepted into a world-class education program at a Canadian BC Offshore School. Facing the new learning environment, English textbooks, and foreign teachers, you may have some questions like how do you make it to grade 12 and successfully get an offer to a top-ranked university like the University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia or even an Ivy League University.
You are in luck because after helping hundreds of graduates from the Canadian BC program get into Toronto, UBC, and McGill I believe I can give you some useful advice. By following the seven successful strategies listed below, you can easily make this a reality.
1. ENGLISH, ENGLISH, ENGLISH
The best indicator of making it to a top-ranked University begins with your English level. The better your English, the greater your chances. If you want to improve any subject’s grade, practice your English…DAILY! Read in English, speak in English, write in English and listen to English everywhere you go. Look around you at the top students in your class right now – how is their English level? I know the answer already; it’s excellent! The more time you invest in your English ability this, the more chances you will have to get into a top-ranked University.
2. ASK QUESTIONS
Students who participate in class by asking questions improve their understanding of the knowledge taught. This greatly improves your retention of key facts which will then improve your test scores. As well, it shows your BC teachers how much you understand what they’ve taught you. Start asking questions each class and watch how your grades will improve.
3. SHOW UP PREPARED
Always show up for class prepared. This means completing all homework assignments to the best of your ability. Even if an assignment is not done correctly, at least you’ve shown your teacher you tried. Bring all necessary materials to class each day like textbooks, binders, pens or pencils. Being prepared shows your BC teacher that you are ready to learn.
4. ASK FOR HELP
When you don‘t understand something that your BC teacher has taught you, ask them for help by going to meet with them after class or at lunch. You can also, email or Wechat with them. By asking your BC teacher for help you are showing them you care about your learning and want to improve as much as possible. BC teachers like it when students ask for help.
5. BE PREPARED TO FAIL
In order to improve you must learn to fail. Being in a BC program means facing a new learning system with different assignments, group work, presentations, all taught in a foreign language…English! There will be many times when you will stumble and not receive the results you were hoping for. By learning to accept your failures as learning opportunities, you better prepare yourself for the next time to improve. Our most successful students do not let a bad result discourage them – they quickly seek help, ask questions, and prepare themselves to do better for the next time.
6. GET INVOLVED.
The requirements for universities are changing. Academic grades are very important along with your English ability. However, universities are now starting to look at the students’activities inside and outside of school that you participate in. Activities like sports, clubs, student union, drama, travel, and service can enhance your applications. All of these activities tell the university what you can do for them if they accept you. They inform the university about your character. So get involved in your school. Try new things and make new friends.
7. HAVE A POSITIVE ATTITUDE.
Finally, being in an international program is not easy. It’s hard work. Just ask any graduate from our schools and they’ll tell you it was hard work. Making mistakes will happen and you’ll have some setbacks. But always be positive and learn from your past. You can graduate too. You were selected into your school because we believe in you and your abilities. Now show your principal and BC teachers that they were right about you. Prove to them that you want to graduate and go to your dream University.
By following these seven strategies you are on the road to having a successful three and getting a university offer to your dream university.
Good luck!
Mr. Greg Corry
Deputy Superintendent of CINEC Offshore Schools