


What a year! 2007 saw the UK once again notch a top spot as a study abroad destination, as well as rise in world university rankings. Look to the New Year with an eye across the Pond and consider studying abroad in 2008 - there's sure to be a campus in England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland that would suit you!
For now, wherever you are, with the snow falling or the sun shining outside your window this December, enjoy the days off with a cup of tea and these five ways to have a very British winter.
1. It's a Winter Wonderland. There may not be snow everywhere, but there will definitely be lights! You'll feel a warm toasty glow when you see the silhouettes of many a city and village across the UK strung with the lights of the season. 2. Save that pocket money. The UK is famous for its January sales, when upmarket department stores and high street shops alike sell their stylish wares at significantly reduced prices. Not Britain bound? Enjoy post-holidy sales at a shop near you. 3. Celebrate. There are a host of multicultural festivities and no shortage of reasons to celebrate in the UK all winter long. 4. Save room for dessert. Figgy pudding has a storied history that dates back to 17th century England. It is famously referenced in the carol "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" and is a great way to end your holiday dinner. 5. Sing a song. Christmas caroling began as an old English custom called Wassailing - toasting neighbors to a long and healthy life. Why not start the tradition?
In the meantime, send a smile to your nearest and dearest with wishes for a peaceful and festive season with a British Council e-card.
Happy Holidays and see you in 2008!
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 In addition to being your official source of information about studying in the UK, the British Council develops initiatives that connect young Americans to their counterparts in the UK and around the world. Learn how to make sure your voice is heard on the issues that make a difference, from climate change and devolution to the impact of slavery and the future of higher education. Our programs need your input and active participation to broker partnerships that will spark debate, encourage progress, and inspire real change. |
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 Consider what it really means to go green this season: it's not just about the Earth getting warmer. Climage change is also responsible for a host of other ill effects, like less fresh water and modified migration patterns. Species that depend on one another may become out of sync, with plants blooming earlier than their pollinating insects become active. Explore the issue with our Climate Change program, which engages young scientists, environmental journalists, and the public to raise awareness about energy issues and to consider solutions to a problem impacting communities around the globe. |
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 Studying in the UK in 2008? Don't forget that as of December 3, 2007 all UK visa applicants, including those applying for entry clearance to study, are required to provide their biometric data (10 finger scans and a digital photograph) as part of their application. For more information, please visit the website of the British government in the USA, where you can learn how to apply for a UK visa and submit the required biometric information. The British government is introducing biometric data collection as part of a worldwide biometric identification process, designed to protect an individual's identity, facilitate future entry to the UK, and combat visa fraud and abuse of the UK's immigration and asylum systems. |
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 We're looking forward to introducing our latest batch of Student Bloggers in 2008 - American students writing from the UK who will decode the big and little mysteries of studying in England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, from making sure your Federal Aid money crosses the Pond in time, to the color of a perfectly brewed cup of tea. Want some visuals to go with all those entries? We'll also be launching video tours of UK campuses in the new year, so you can get a 360 degree view of what it's like to live and study at some of the best universities in the world. Watch this space! |
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