19 Things You Should Know Before Your First Semester in a US College

Preparing for college with a detailed checklist, guidance for US college freshmen by The Red Pen

I grew up in Bombay, wrote and spoke English fluently, watched Hollywood movies and consumed US media. I knew Joey’s tagline, “How you doin’?”, Vicky from Small Wonder and Charles from Charles in Charge. Yet, several things surprised me when I moved to the US. I went to Grinnell College in Iowa, lived in the […]

Your Guide to Undergraduate Learning at the University of Cambridge

Panoramic view of the University of Cambridge, home to top-tier undergraduate programs by The Red Pen

The University of Cambridge is one of the world’s most prestigious institutions. Its combination of approaches to learning encourages students, like me, to delve deeper into their academic passions. The opportunity to interact with leading intellectuals and access some of the finest resources guides us towards aspiring to achieve limitless possibilities. But what is it […]

Should I Go Abroad for My Undergraduate Studies?

Should I Go Abroad for My Undergraduate Studies? | The Red Pen

Recently, we came across a post where an ‘expert’ responded to the question “Should I apply for colleges in India or abroad?” with a simplistic response of “…apply to both so all your options remain open”. The problem is that the education systems in India and globally are unique, so college admissions requirements vary and […]

4 Common Myths About Careers After College

4 Common Myths About Careers After College | The Red Pen

A common belief in the education industry and one that’s often repeated during conversations about higher education is that current high school students will apply for jobs that don’t even exist yet. This indicates the blistering pace at which the career landscape can be transformed by technology. In such a state of constant change, it […]

5 Reasons Why the Oxbridge Tutorial System Gives You Life Skills

Oxford University's impressive architecture and green spaces from above by The Red Pen

Tutorials have been at the forefront of some of the world’s best universities for hundreds of years. In the UK, The University of Oxford and The University of Cambridge centre their entire learning system around this method. The Oxbridge tutorial system, as it is commonly called, is recognised as one of the most intensive and […]

Is a 3+2 Engineering Programme Right For You?

Engineering student examining prototype and schematic for 3+2 programme decision – The Red Pen

Typically, students interested in engineering gravitate towards larger universities that focus on different disciplines within the field of engineering or have a dedicated engineering school. While many find this route appealing, some students prefer to explore their interests in a liberal arts curriculum first. Why a 3+2 Programme May Actually Be the Best-Fit for You? […]

Where Should I Apply For My Master’s Abroad?

Where Should I Apply For My Master's Abroad? | The Red Pen

Are you looking to pursue a master’s programme abroad but are confused about the universities to which you should apply? Technical degrees like those earned while studying medicine, architecture, law and engineering are four-year courses, so these applicants meet most university requirements by default. However, as most Indian liberal arts, social science and business applicants […]

The New Digital SAT – What Has Changed, What Hasn’t and How to Prepare

Focused student working on a laptop with study materials for the updated digital SAT, The Red Pen

In January 2022, the College Board, the governing body of the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) announced that the SAT will be conducted digitally in the next couple of years. International students (non-US based) will be able to take the test starting from March 2023, while US students will have to wait till spring 2024. In […]

5 Ways to Prepare for Your Meeting With Boarding School Admissions Officers

5 Ways to Prepare for Your Meeting With Boarding School AOs | The Red Pen

Deciding to attend a boarding school is a huge step for your family; one that requires a lot of research. A huge part of this research is connecting with boarding school admissions officers (AOs). These representatives can answer all your questions about the application process, life at boarding school, subject selection and more. Even if […]

The New Rules for Indian Medical Students Studying Abroad

Healthcare worker holding a stethoscope with blurred hospital corridor by The Red Pen

Recently, the National Medical Commission (NMC) announced the new rules for medical students who want to pursue their medical studies abroad and then return to India to practice medicine. These new rules do not affect those that are currently pursuing studying medicine abroad. Here is a summary of the new medical rules for Indian students: […]