19 Things You Should Know Before Your First Semester in a US College

Preparing for college with a detailed checklist, guidance for US college freshmen by The Red Pen

I grew up in Bombay, wrote and spoke English fluently, watched Hollywood movies and consumed US media. I knew Joey’s tagline, “How you doin’?”, Vicky from Small Wonder and Charles from Charles in Charge. Yet, several things surprised me when I moved to the US. I went to Grinnell College in Iowa, lived in the […]

Your Guide to Undergraduate Learning at the University of Cambridge

Panoramic view of the University of Cambridge, home to top-tier undergraduate programs by The Red Pen

The University of Cambridge is one of the world’s most prestigious institutions. Its combination of approaches to learning encourages students, like me, to delve deeper into their academic passions. The opportunity to interact with leading intellectuals and access some of the finest resources guides us towards aspiring to achieve limitless possibilities. But what is it […]

3 Reasons You Should Start Saving Early For Your Child’s Education Abroad

3 Reasons You Should Start Saving Early For Your Child’s Education Abroad | The Red Pen

Sending your child to study abroad can be expensive. As a parent, you want to give your child a world-class education, which requires thoughtful financial planning as early as possible.  Here are 3 reasons why you need to start saving now for your child’s education abroad: 1) The cost of education is rising faster than […]

Should I Go Abroad for My Undergraduate Studies?

Should I Go Abroad for My Undergraduate Studies? | The Red Pen

Recently, we came across a post where an ‘expert’ responded to the question “Should I apply for colleges in India or abroad?” with a simplistic response of “…apply to both so all your options remain open”. The problem is that the education systems in India and globally are unique, so college admissions requirements vary and […]

5 Reasons Why the Oxbridge Tutorial System Gives You Life Skills

Oxford University's impressive architecture and green spaces from above by The Red Pen

Tutorials have been at the forefront of some of the world’s best universities for hundreds of years. In the UK, The University of Oxford and The University of Cambridge centre their entire learning system around this method. The Oxbridge tutorial system, as it is commonly called, is recognised as one of the most intensive and […]

Benefits of Credit Courses and Research Papers for High School Students

Parent and child exploring the universe with a telescope, symbolizing the importance of research and academic growth – Benefits of Credit Courses and Research Papers for High School Students | The Red Pen

At 99 degrees, water is hot. At 100 degrees, it changes to steam, which can power an engine. That one extra degree makes all the difference between something that’s simply hot and something that can move mountains. That extra step, that differentiating factor is key at every step, whether in school, college or even in […]

7 Things You Should Think About Before Considering a Career In Medicine

Students discussing outside a campus building, illustrating key factors to weigh before entering the medical field - The Red Pen

As a high school student, you might be wondering, “Why do I need to start thinking about medical school now?” The answer is important because there is a lot to sort through before you even get started. While the US requires you to complete a bachelor’s degree before you can apply for an MD programme, […]

Why Are Summer Camps Important?

Summer camp participants exploring rocky cliffs and sea activities wearing safety gear – The Red Pen

If you are lucky enough to have childhood memories of taking part in outdoor adventures, it is very likely that you have experienced the rush that comes with taking a risk, pushing yourself and discovering your capabilities. There is a transformational thrill that lies at the heart of every great adventure; one that comes from […]

What Type of Research Should I Do?

Scholar contemplating research approaches with visual brainstorming, learn with The Red Pen

One of the most common questions I receive as a part of the Lumiere Research Scholar Program is, “I am interested in XXX subject (for example, economics, international relations, literature). Can I do research in it?”  The question comes from decades of messaging around research as a primarily lab-based practice. Research frequently conjures images of […]