Career counselling: questions and answers

Q1: Dear Mr Abidi, I graduated from the BS Economics programme at NUST in 2024 June. I am writing to seek your guidance and assistance as I plan to move to the US with my family.

I am eager to apply for admission to universities in the US for the Fall semester of 2025. As many universities open their applications in late August and early September, I want to be well-prepared for the process. However, I find the documentation requirements and the steps involved quite confusing, particularly regarding financial assistance. Could you kindly provide me with some guidance on the admission process? I would greatly appreciate any advice or resources you can offer. Please let me know how I can best contact you for further assistance.

Fatima Abbasi - Lahore

Ans: Dear Fatima Abbasi, my advice is to start by identifying universities that offer programmes aligned with your academic interests and career goals. Consider factors like location, tuition fees, and scholarship opportunities. Many universities have resources on their websites specifically for international students, which can be very helpful. It’s important to know that many US universities also require the GRE or GMAT, depending on the programme. Make sure to check the specific requirements for each university on your shortlist. Key documents generally include your academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume. Since you're applying for the Fall 2025 intake, you have ample time to prepare these documents thoroughly.

Q2: Dear Sir, I am currently looking for some good universities to apply to for graduate programmes. I am looking at neuroscience, cognitive and behavioural sciences, and microbiology programmes in various universities where I can also receive some funding. I have already given TOEFL also.

Kashaf - Lahore

Ans: Dear Kashaf, it’s great to hear that you’ve already taken the TOEFL and are exploring programmes in Neuroscience, Cognitive and Behavioural Sciences, and Microbiology. To maximise your chances of securing funding, I recommend focusing on universities with strong research programmes in your areas of interest. Many US institutions offer assistantships and scholarships, so prioritise those that align closely with your academic and research goals.

Q3: Dear Sir, I am a mass communication graduate from NUST, with advertising and public relations as my major. I am keen in pursuing a postgraduate degree in a field such as digital marketing, design, strategic Communication, etc. My ideal study destinations include Turkey, the USA, and the UK (however I am open to other options as well), and I am particularly interested in fully funded scholarships.

I have been researching scholarship opportunities and admission requirements independently, but the vast amount of information available online has made the process overwhelming. I believe that personalised guidance from an experienced consultant would be invaluable in helping me navigate this journey effectively. I would appreciate the opportunity to schedule a consultation with you to discuss my academic goals and explore potential scholarship options.

Nabiha Subhani - Sargodha

Ans: Dear Nabiha, I commend your ambition to pursue further studies in digital marketing, design, or strategic communication. Given your interest in fully funded scholarships, I suggest focusing on universities known for strong funding opportunities, particularly in your preferred destinations.

Q4: Dear Mr Abidi, I am writing to ask regarding Masters opportunities available for Sept 2024 or Jan 2025. I am a recent graduate of Electrical Engineering from IBA with a CGPA of 3.62. I aim to go to Europe but faced a lot of issues during application process and would request your professional guidance.

Syed Muhammad Abubakar - Karachi

Ans: Dear Syed Muhammad Abubakar, with your strong CGPA in Electrical Engineering, you have a good foundation for applying to master's programmes in Europe. I understand the challenges you’ve faced during the application process, and I’d be happy to assist you in navigating them. Let’s schedule a time to discuss your options for September 2024 and January 2025 intakes. Please let me know when you’re available.

(Syed Azhar Husnain Abidi is a renowned educationist in Pakistan, with more than 20 years of experience as provider of education counselling services. He has represented Pakistan in over 100 national and international seminars, conferences and fora. He is a recipient of the most coveted civil award Tamgha-e-Imtiaz).