How to Communicate With a University

A university in a whole other country can seem so, so far away that the dream to study there might seem just that: a dream. However, through the wonders of modern technology there are many ways to connect with a university today and to communicate with them effectively. Here we take a look at some of these modes of communication to help start you off and help you engage with a university:

Email

If you visit a university's website, you'll find a whole section dedicated to helping international students. There will be a 'Contact us' option with information to reach someone in the international office department. This may be through email, instant messanger or phone. Don't worry: This isn't just one person answering all these enquiries coming in. There will usually be a large team to pick up these messages and respond in a timely manner.

Student ambassadors

A key part of many universities' international teams are student ambassadors, international students currently studying at the university who can speak to prospective applicants and students in their own language. This can be more comforting for applicants to communicate in their own language, while seeing seeing somone from there own country who is now a student abroad can drive you to make it there too. Many ambassadors are students who were offered such incredible help from the international office when they were applying, that they want to give back in some way by helping future students themselves; they will understand what it's like to apply from another country, how you will be feeling or what questions you will be asking.

Social media

The likes of Facebook, Twitter and Google Plus make getting engaged with a university and their campus community easy. All universities have at least a Facebook or Twitter presence, which are overseen by staff and students; often larger institutions will have different profiles for different parts of and offices within the university. Plus, because it's more open, other students/members/followers can jump in and offer advice too. Also, you'll see the university post helpful links on a daily basis at appropriate times of the month/year, which will prove useful as you move along your application journey.

Via Hotcourses Abroad
The easiest way by far which you can also get in touch with universities via their profiles on Hotcourses Abroad. Once you have found a course or university you like, you can enquire directly to the appropriate person at the institution who can answer your question.