Navigating the Early Admission Exercise (EAE) can be a daunting task, especially with the myriad of misconceptions that can mislead prospective students. Many believe that all diploma courses are the same, that they need to list every achievement to stand out, or that lacking a portfolio is a deal-breaker. Others think that securing an interview guarantees admission, or that the interview is solely about impressing the school. In reality, understanding the intricacies of EAE and dispelling these myths is crucial for a successful application.
Misconception #1: All diploma courses are created equal.
Each polytechnic designs its diploma courses differently. They don’t share the same curriculum, resources, or faculty expertise. So, don’t just assume that they’re all peas in a pod. It is absolutely crucial to dive into the nitty-gritty details – knowing the modules each course offers, topics covered, and method of assessment!
Misconception #2: I should list down all my talents and achievements in my write-up to increase my chances of success.
Contrary to popular belief, it’s essential to keep your 600-character write-up concise yet impactful when expressing your interest in the course. You should highlight your relevant experiences which may come from your CCAs, work experience, or participation in interest-based events and competitions to strengthen your application.
When tackling the optional 1000-character write-up, you may be tempted to skip it entirely or list every talent and achievement of yours. However, flooding your application with too much information can instead weaken its effectiveness. Hence, you should focus on highlighting a few key talents and achievements that are relevant to your desired course.
Misconception #3: I’m dead if I don’t have a portfolio to present to the polytechnics.
Even if you lack a concrete portfolio, don’t fret! You can still make a strong impression on the polytechnics by highlighting your relevant hobbies, knowledge, and experiences. These extracurricular activities can provide valuable insight into your dedication and commitment beyond the classroom.
However, it’s important to note that for design-related courses, having a portfolio is mandatory!
When writing your application, take the time to elaborate on the skills that you’ve acquired from these activities. Furthermore, you should highlight how they are applicable to your desired course of study to make your application more cohesive and compelling while clearly demonstrating your clear enthusiasm for the course.
Misconception #4: If I receive an invitation to interview, I’m guaranteed to get into my desired course.
If you’ve managed to secure an interview after your write-up submissions, congratulations! But remember, the journey isn’t over yet. Now comes the crucial step of acing the interview.
During this time, you’ll have the opportunity to chat with your potential future lecturers. It’s not just about them getting to know you, it’s also your chance to learn more about the course. Use this time to express your passion and excitement for the course and show them why you’re the perfect fit for the course.
Remember, this interview is not just a formality, it’s your chance to make a lasting impression. So, prepare well and let your enthusiasm shine through!
Misconception #5: Interviews are solely for me to impress the school.
The interview process isn’t just about you proving yourself worthy of your dream course; it’s also an opportunity for you to assess if the course is the right fit for you.
Therefore, you should take advantage of this opportunity by preparing questions to ask during the interview as your interviewers can provide you with valuable insights into the program and its future prospects.
Ultimately, approaching the EAE write-ups and interview with authenticity, preparedness, and confidence, you not only increase your chances of securing a spot in your dream course but also ensure that you’re making a well-informed decision about your academic future.