As Indian families explore overseas education options earlier than ever, the focus is shifting beyond academic prestige to include student wellbeing, safety, and value for money. Against this backdrop, SIM Global Education (SIM GE), together with the University at Buffalo (UB), recently conducted a series of school outreach programmes across Hyderabad and Bangalore, combining digital literacy education with guidance on global degree pathways.
A key highlight of the outreach was a seminar titled The Dark Age of Internet led by Dr Jessica Covert, Visiting Instructor of Communication at the University at Buffalo.
The session explored how digital environments influence attention, cognitive functioning, emotional health, and social interaction, areas of increasing concern for students preparing for higher education in an always connected world.
Reflecting on the discussions with students, Dr Covert shared,
“Students today learn, communicate, and form perspectives through digital environments, so it is important for them to recognise how their online behaviour shapes focus, learning, and emotional wellbeing. Meeting students in India created a meaningful space to discuss these topics and help them make more informed digital choices.”
The seminar resonated strongly with students, parents, and educators, reinforcing the importance of holistic preparation that supports academic readiness alongside cognitive and emotional development.
Alongside the seminar, students and families were introduced to University at Buffalo degree programmes delivered at SIM Global Education in Singapore. The pathway allows students to begin their American undergraduate journey in Asia before completing their studies in Buffalo, New York, offering a combination of academic rigour, regional accessibility, and cost efficiency.
Kandis Pogoda, Assistant Resident Director for the SIM-UB partnership, highlighted how this pathway aligns with evolving family priorities, “Families are increasingly exploring structured pathways that balance practical considerations, relevant skillsets, and global exposure. Through the SIM-UB partnership, students pursue an American undergraduate degree program in Singapore with the option of completing their studies in Buffalo, New York. Highlights of the SIM-UB program include academic quality in an accessible location with opportunity for diversification of a student's university experience."
The outreach also reflected growing student interest in communication, media, and technology related disciplines, particularly as these fields continue to expand across Asia Pacific markets.
Through this initiative, SIM Global Education and the University at Buffalo reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Indian students with research led teaching, practical skill development, and accessible global education pathways.
To learn more about SIM Global Education and University at Buffalo undergraduate programmes, and to receive updates on upcoming faculty webinars and information sessions for students and parents in India, visit
https://bit.ly/SIMGlobalEducation-UB or reach out to our Country Manager at trichav@sim.edu.sg.
Disclaimer: Content produced by Mediawire on behalf of Singapore Institute of Management