4 ways to help learners improve their academic portfolios during lockdown

Schools across South Africa plan to open on 1 June in a phased approach, starting with grades 7 and 12.

However, strict social-distancing measures will prevent most sporting and cultural extracurricular activities from taking place. Some parents may decide to keep their children at home altogether. Learners who have set their sights on top universities, both locally and overseas, must demonstrate innovation to stand out and build impressive application portfolios.

Crimson Education helps shape, manage, and motivate students with personalised education packages that improve admission chances to top universities. “Universities are looking for well-rounded candidates who can successfully manage both academic and environmental pressures. This crisis allows learners to show universities how they handle difficult situations, the ability to react smartly, efficiently, and empathetically is evidence of what they can bring to a campus and their future careers,” said Rebecca Pretorius, country manager for Crimson Education.

Regardless of where a learner is applying, Crimson’s advice is to leverage the current situation to demonstrate adaptability and creative thinking.

Pretorius offers the following tips for high school learners to improve their applications during lockdown:

• Academics: While you may not be able to engage as much with your teachers, your academic success remains in your hands. Learners can learn more about the areas they are interested in by utilising online resources for independent subject research.
• Demonstrate leadership: Show that you are quick to adapt and an asset to any organisation by moving everything online. For example, if you are part of a sports team, consider building a home workout for your teammates. If you are planning an event, consider making it digital using Zoom or Google Hangout.
• Find online extracurricular: Even once schools reopen, strict social distancing measures will prevent most sporting and cultural extracurricular activities. You can showcase your commitment to learning outside of an academic setting by participating in online conferences, digital hackathons, and virtual debates.
• Personal Projects: Universities love to see learners who take initiative and lead their projects. You can start your own app, launch a non-profit or start-up company, or get involved with virtual volunteering for charities. For example, you can make support phone calls to the elderly or set up social media pages for non-profit organisations.

For more information, visit www.crimsoneducation.org

Related stories:

Get into the top international universities

Grooming future entrepreneur’s