Volume
1 Issue 30
by Michael Wagner
Knowledge Pilot, Launch Global Education
This week there are a variety of what we call bonus articles—additional stories that are related to the lead story. We even have our first triple bonus this week related to the importance of developing soft skills, also known as human skills. These articles highlight how these skills have become even more important within the age of technology.
It is also a good week to highlight the articles that the top education stories of the year. Take a look! If you see a story or topic of interest, explore it further; that is what this newsletter is all about – lifelong learning.
Enjoy the topics.
Discoveries
Popular education stories of the year
It is the end of the year—that means that the best of the year lists are out. Micah Ward of University Business World highlights the top 10 stories of the year. There is also a bonus article of the top education stories according to the staff as K-12 Dive.
When it comes to selecting schools, there is always an emphasis on the U.S. News and World Report rankings of universities and colleges in the United States. Yet, there are so many other ways to find great colleges and universities. In the UK, the British Council, an organization specializing in international cultural and educational opportunities, has some terrific resources.
Bonus article from Jelena Brankovic of The Chronicle of Higher Education:
The importance of developing a skilled workforce
It is becoming more and more important that our future workforce is properly skilled (or as many are saying, upskilled). Stephanie Ferguson and Isabella Lucy of the US Chamber of Commerce outline the importance of the upskilling movement to improve competence.
Bonus article and podcast link from Ramona Schindelheim, Editor-in Chief of Working Nation:
These 4 in-demand skills are spreading so fast, they’re becoming foundational
Bonus link to the study from Nik Dawson, et al. for Burning Glass Institute, the Business-Higher Education Forum, and Wiley:
How skills are disrupting work: The transformational power of fast growing, in-demand skills
Tip of the Week
Rolling Admissions
Students who submitted applications this fall for admission into college for the 2023-24 term are beginning to receive admissions decisions. Despite what many people believe due to the focus on elite colleges’ extremely low acceptance rates, most students will receive positive news regarding their applications.
However, there will be some students who will receive sad news that they have been denied to their desired college. Though these students may have remaining applications, they may also want to consider other options. One option is looking into schools that have rolling admissions. Colleges and universities with a rolling admissions policy do not have an admissions deadline and will continue to accept applications throughout the year. This means that students can apply to additional colleges and universities without having to wait for another admissions season to open. While receiving admissions denials is hard, knowing that you have other options can make it a little easier.
Before you go...
When the holiday season arrives, it is the time of year that reminds us to give back and show compassion and empathy towards others. A story this week by CBS reporter Steve Hartman of CBS News from the series Kindness 101, features the kindness and compassion of a high school basketball team.
Each week, the Odyssey newsletter features articles dealing with a variety of topics related to education. We hope you enjoy the articles and the bonus articles that offer a deeper dive into chosen topics. Please share this newsletter and these important topics in the world of higher education and college counseling.
Have
a great week.
Mike
Michael Wagner, MAED is a founder and the Knowledge Pilot for Launch Education. Mr. Mike has assisted hundreds of students around the world on their college pathways.