Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Randa Agha. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Randa thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s kick things off with a hypothetical question – if it were up to you, what would you change about the school or education system to better prepare students for a more fulfilling life and career?

As the entrepreneur behind UniGate for study abroad services, and as my business is connected to the higher education sector, I consider it imperative to shift our focus away from solely trying to improve the education system itself. Instead, I firmly advocate for a significant shift in the mindset of both students and their parents. It’s a common trend for students to aspire to pursue undergraduate studies in Medicine or related medical fields. While these professions are undeniably crucial and prestigious, it’s essential to acknowledge the significance of alternative careers and fields.

This is particularly relevant given that secondary schools and universities worldwide are acutely aware of the value of cooperative and practical training solutions. They actively facilitate opportunities for students to enhance their real-world experience alongside theoretical knowledge. Moreover, numerous universities host job fairs with well-established companies, ensuring that students can build robust and productive networks in their respective fields. These efforts collectively contribute to students’ pursuit of the success they aspire to achieve.

I am dedicated to persuading students that embracing their unique talents and characteristics does not equate to missing out on opportunities. By aligning their academic journey with their innate gifts and interests, they can carve out a distinctive and successful niche for themselves. Whether they choose a scientific or artistic field that resonates with their passion and abilities, students can achieve success and recognition through exceptional work, regardless of societal expectations. My belief lies in empowering students to pursue paths that genuinely align with their talents, enabling them to thrive and establish an admirable reputation based on their distinctive contributions.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am Randa Agh, the founder of UniGate for study abroad services, and UniGate Junior. Almost ten years ago, I embarked on my professional journey as an educational counselor. My role involved helping numerous international students from the MENA region achieve their academic dreams by providing guidance on pursuing higher education at universities that match their objectives. Although I held various positions prior to my career in higher education, I didn’t feel that it was my lifelong calling. It was essential for me to work in an industry that had a profound positive impact on people’s lives. This is precisely what I’ve achieved in my current role as a startup business owner in the higher education sector.

I consider my team and I among the most successful and dedicated professionals in the MENA region. Our mission goes beyond merely helping international students find their ideal university match. We are committed to educating them throughout the entire process, ensuring they understand the rationale behind each step of the admission journey. We serve as both coaches and trusted friends, providing guidance and support that they can rely on safely.

In a world where international students have a multitude of options, we excel in matching them with choices that truly suit their unique circumstances and academic/professional objectives. If a student faces any challenges, we go the extra mile to help them overcome these obstacles, securing the university admission they desire.

Our assistance extends to students from diverse educational backgrounds, from high school graduates seeking bachelor’s admissions to those pursuing Ph.D. opportunities. Furthermore, we maintain continuous communication with all admitted students, ensuring they embark on a smooth and exciting educational journey. Whenever they require coaching or support, we are always there for them, offering our authentic services or connecting them with our strategic business partners.

To guarantee that we consistently meet our students’ expectations, I ensure that my team receives the necessary training and certifications. We proudly hold ICEF certification as an education consultancy, and all team members have completed the British Council Education Agent training program.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Small business owners are well aware of the significant challenges they face, particularly during the initial years when they must commit their entire lives to the business in a sincere effort to foster growth and establish credibility. This dedication requires enormous sacrifices and effort. Unfortunately, this hard work often goes unnoticed, No one will rise to applaud your efforts and sacrifices in managing your own business. Small business owners invest not only their time but also their health and well-being into their ventures. Despite these exceptional efforts and inputs, success is not guaranteed, and the journey can be longer and more arduous than anticipated.

Tough times are inevitable, but I am fortunate to have a dedicated team that never lets me lose hope. There was a moment when I contemplated permanently closing the business, feeling completely lost. However, my team firmly rejected that idea and stood by my side. Fortunately, they proved me wrong, and the business flourished. Now, we have launched UniGate Junior, an initiative aimed at assisting parents in placing their children in schools abroad, in addition to UniGate, where we help international students pursue their education at universities abroad.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Achieving expertise in our work, maintaining professionalism, continuous learning, and turning mistakes into learning experiences are essential elements that contribute to establishing a strong market reputation. Additionally, understanding the needs of our students and demonstrating empathy towards those facing challenges, requiring urgent help is crucial. We also expand our network by collaborating with various service providers, ensuring our students receive top-notch assistance regardless of their chosen study destination. Furthermore, we partner with globally renowned universities, providing our students with a diverse range of exciting opportunities and destinations to study abroad.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.theunigate.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unigateuk/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UniGateUk
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unigateuk
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/UniGateUK
• Whatsapp: https://web.whatsapp.com/send?phone=message/UKOLSHUBHBKQJ1