Latest news with #2026
Khaleej Times
6 hours ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Changes to the UCAS personal statement: What does this mean?
After thirty years of the same format, UCAS has announced changes to its personal statement. Starting in September 2025, the UK personal statement will no longer be a single, free-form essay of 4000 characters. Instead, applicants will be asked to answer three separate questions. What does this mean for students applying to UK universities for 2026 entry? In this article, we will break down the new format and offer tips for students ready to begin writing theirs. The New UCAS Personal Statement The three questions on the new personal statement are: Why do you want to study this course or subject? How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject? What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful? While the statement is now divided into three sections, the total length remains the same: 4000 characters including spaces (which equates to roughly 600 words). Even with this change in format, the content–that is, what students are expected to write about–has not changed, which means students can still read examples from previous years to gain inspiration for their own. The purpose of the change, therefore, is to help students convey their application profile with greater clarity. Now let's break down each question, paying particular attention to what admissions officers will be looking for in students' answers. Question 1: Why do you want to study this course or subject? Through this question, admissions officers want to gain an understanding of your interest and motivation in the subject you wish to study at university. They will be looking for evidence of your passion for the subject and a clear reason for why you want to study it, whether that's for career purposes, a desire to address certain issues, or simply a fascination with the topic. To stand out, the key point to remember is to be unique. Sure, lots of students want to study finance to make money, or become a doctor to help people, but what is it about the study of those subjects that you find most interesting? If a student wants to study Law, they should describe the specific area of law they want to pursue. If Economics, which field? To feel confident answering this, students should research the degree programmes they are applying for to understand exactly what topics it covers. Question 2: How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject? In this answer, students are expected to demonstrate their distinct knowledge of the subject they plan to show that, admissions officers will want to see how a student's academic background has provided them with the necessary skills and knowledge for the degree. Students should describe how they have built their perspective of their chosen subject through classes at school, projects, coursework, and competitions. Here, additional projects will shine. For example, if a student studies A Levels, have they done an EPQ? If they study IB, have they done an EE? Building on Question 1, students should go deeper into the details of their fascination with a subject by drawing on evidence from their academic activities. It's not enough to say, for instance, studying Biology has prepared them for Medicine. Instead, they should elaborate on what specific Biology-based knowledge, skills, and experiences they have gained that will directly translate to their medical studies. Question 3: What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful? This is a student's chance to really showcase their unique profile. Here, admissions officers will be looking for evidence of how a student's supercurriculars and extracurricular activities not only have prepared them to study their subject, but have given them a distinct perspective of it also. A wide range of activities can be evidenced in this answer, from research projects and summer programmes to internships, volunteering, and leadership roles. Students should explain what they learned, what skills they developed, and what they contributed in each experience. Whichever activities a student chooses to describe, it's essential they link it to the subject they want to study at university. If a student is applying for International Relations, what insights did they gain about a particular topic during a summer programme? Or, if they are applying for Business Management, what concepts did they put into practice during an internship? How to prepare for the statement The preparation for a student's personal statement begins with profile building. Even if the format of the statement has changed, its purpose remains the same: admissions officers are seeking students with unique perspectives, experiences, and knowledge of their subject. To demonstrate these qualities, students should engage in a range of subject-relevant activities, such as online study courses, competitions, summer programmes, research projects, and internships. Equipped with such experiences, students will be in a strong position to convincingly reflect on how they have shaped their academic interests and prepared themselves for university study. Creating a proper outline and revising the statement through multiple iterations are also essential to success. When it comes time to commence writing the statement, students should remember to be clear, succinct, and to choose each example carefully. With only 4000 characters to showcase their profile, space is limited. Therefore, it is essential that students use concrete examples and respond directly to each question; they must make every word count. Tailored to each individual student, Hale Education's dedicated UK counseling team provides expert support on all aspects of profile building and personal statement development through one-to-one mentorship and guidance. Always seek out an external set of eyes to review your personal statement before submission, to check for spelling and grammatical errors. With proper planning and execution, a compelling personal statement can make the difference between receiving a rejection letter or an admission offer.
Auto Blog
6 hours ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
I Drove the 2026 Genesis GV70 3.5T Sport Prestige, Here's My Brutally Honest Review
By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. A masterclass in everything The Genesis GV70 has been one of my favorite compact luxury SUVs since it debuted in 2022. It didn't look or feel like any of its competitors, balancing original styling, impressive performance, high-end materials, and great tech in a competitively priced package. Rather than being an also-ran like the Genesis brand was several years ago, the GV70 presented a compelling case to steer away from the Germans, and it's even better for 2026. I drove the 3.5T Sport Prestige AWD ($70,095 MSRP) for a full week, and here's my in-depth review, along with the upsides and downsides. Small but important exterior changes Onlookers will surely fail to notice most of the changes to the exterior. Like its GV80 sibling, the GV70's grille now has a dual lattice weave that adds visual depth, ratcheting up the sophistication quotient. The headlights now have smaller Micro Lens Array lighting elements that exhibit a tighter pattern and a crisper look. Both front and rear bumpers have been revised, and there are new wheel designs. The body is largely unchanged from 2025, and that's a good thing. The prominent creases, sloping C- and D-pillars, as well as the short front and rear overhangs, contribute to good proportions and a sporty side view. The GV70 does get new wheel designs across the lineup, though, sized at 19 inches for 2.5T trims and for the 3.5T Sport Advanced, while the 3.5T Sport Prestige gets 21-inch versions. While we don't dislike the new exhaust outlet shape that aligns with the inner edge of the taillights and the bumper creases, we lament the disappearance of the large round versions that came with the more powerful engine. In worse news, the 2.5T's vertically-oriented exhaust outlets are now completely gone, replaced by versions that exit out the bottom of the vehicle, sight unseen. These are just nitpicks on an otherwise very handsome exterior that looks good coming and going, though. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. The tech-forward and plush interior The 2025 GV70 utilized a 14.5-inch touchscreen and a separate analog gauge cluster, a great setup that exhibited attractive tech and driver-centric instrumentation. For 2026, the GV70 gets a 27-inch widescreen display that stretches across much of the dashboard and incorporates a digital gauge cluster and the infotainment screen. It responds quickly, and it's very intuitive. The on-screen gauges look great, but we much prefer the analog gauge display that's sportier-looking than the new one. Some layout and switchgear changes improve user friendliness. The 3.5T's partially flat-bottom steering wheel is different from the fully round version found in 2.5T trims, and it's a welcome change to the performance variant. There's a new waterfall-style center console that houses the udpated climate control touchpad with temp knobs at the outer edges and the row of metallic media buttons has been replaced by a touch control panel between the two audio knobs. We like the hybridization of touch controls and switchgear in the GV70 that both look great and function well while driving. The larger HVAC vents also provide improved airflow compared to the thinner versions that blended into the dash's line of separation. On the downside, piano black trim is still prevalent on the steering wheel buttons and media control panel, and attracts dust and fingerprints like a magnet. Additional improvements include better differentiation between the rotary shift knob and the infotainment knob control, along with relcoation of the auto start/stop button from the left dash to the center console adjacent to the drive mode selector. Although we like the new charging pad (the old one was beneath a retractable door and angled down), its location in front of the center armrest means you'll often forget to take your phone out when you exit the vehicle, which we did several times. It is, however, more powerful than before and juices up your smartphone noticeably quicker. The Sport Prestige trim highlights the best of the model, including rich Nappa leather, attractive stitching, and copious amounts of aluminum and carbon fiber throughout the cabin. The seats provide excellent support and cushioning, and the extendable thigh bolster provides additional support for longer drives. When you dial the driving mode into Sport or Sport+, the front seats' power side bolsters automatically tighten up. Rear seats are comfy, but the legroom is on the edge of being tight for taller adults. That said, the GV70's 37.2 inches of legroom eclipses both the BMW X3's (36.3) and the Porsche Macan's (35.6). Every GV70 finally comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, coupled with an improved voice recognition system. It also benefits from USB-C ports for the latest device connections. The available 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system delivers superb sound quality with ample bass and great clarity. The GV70's standard safety suite includes forward collision avoidance with automatic emergency steering, lane-centering, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go. The driving experience toes the line between sport and luxury The GV70 3.5T Sport Prestige is a tremendously good all-arounder, properly toeing the line between comfort and performance. The powerful 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 carries over from last year, producing 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The GV70 3.5T accelerates from 0-60 in hair over five seconds, and the throttle response and shifting are both quick. Getting up to speed and passing feel effortless, and the small changes to the steering and suspension aid both ride and handling. Dial it into Sport+, and the steering weight, throttle, and transmission response palpably increase, while the electronically controlled limited-slip differential and adaptive dampers (on 3.5T trims) provide excellent on-road composure. It doesn't feel as tossable or as connected as the Porsche Macan, but it remains a thrill to drive while outdoing the Macan's ride quality thanks to its revised suspension tuning. The GV70 is also quiet at high speeds without feeling isolated since Genesis gave the model improved sound insulation and thicker glass. The difference is noticeable, and the GV70 is a peaceful and comfortable place to be. We were once again disappointed by the 3.5T's fuel economy, however. EPA estimates are 18 city and 25 highway, but we were only able to manage 16.3 mpg in combined driving by the end of our 7-day test. That said, we drove it in Sport mode for about 50 percent of the time. Pressing the cross-hatched sport pedals is tempting, if only to hear the wonderful engine note. Pricing for the 2026 GV70 3.5T Sport Prestige starts at $70,095. Our optioned out tester came to $72,225, including Mauna Red paint ($650), digital NFC key card ($30), and Inland Freight & Handling ($1,450). Although it's by no means cheap, it's less than its German competitors. The GV70 is a very compelling choice in the compact luxury SUV category, and it's what I would choose to park in my own garage. Final thoughts I was already impressed by the power and refinement of the GV70 3.5T, but the 2026 model offers subtle yet significant enhancements in technology, comfort, and refinement. It provides excellent value, robust performance, and a level of style and quality that rival offerings from Deutschland. The GV70 3.5T Sport is further evidence that Genesis should be taken as a serious player against the likes of BMW, Mercedes, Audi, and Porsche because it does so much, so well. About the Author Amos Kwon View Profile
USA Today
8 hours ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Notre Dame football lands its 3rd commitment of July 4th weekend, 2026 WR Brayden Robinson
The fireworks for Notre Dame football wasn't just on July 4th, it was all throughout the weekend with Sunday seeing 2026 wide receiver Brayden Robinson committing to the Irish. Notre Dame beat out Arizona and Miami for the nation's No. 340 overall prospect according to the 247Sports Composite. Robinson's commitment gives the Irish five wide receivers in its 2026 recruiting class, as they continue to add impressive playmakers to the group. Robinson, at 5-foot, 8-inches and 160-pounds, most likely is ticketed for the slot, although he could play some on the outside if needed. This weekend saw three of the five committed wide receivers being added to the class, and to me, it was a bit surprising to see all three of them decide on the Irish. Typically, players are a bit pushed off by so many other players being committed at the same position, but Notre Dame has broken that train of thought. The Irish had a massive recruiting weekend, as the 2026 class now is up to 25 total commits, while being ranked as the No. 4 overall group in the 247Sports Team Composite.
Yahoo
9 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Alcon Inc (ALC) Announces Approval of Clareon PanOptix Pro Intraocular Lens
Alcon Inc. (NYSE:ALC) is one of the 11 Best 52-Week Low Stocks to Buy Right Now. On June 20, Alcon Inc. (NYSE:ALC) announced the approval of the Clareon PanOptix Pro intraocular lens for patients in Canada. PanOptix Pro uses proprietary ENLIGHTEN NXT Optical technology to deliver the lowest light scatter and highest light utilization reported for any trifocal intraocular lens. The lens has achieved a record 94% light utilization, which is significant against the theoretical maximum of 96% for diffractive optics. A doctor wearing scrubs using a centurion vision system to check a patient's eye. Moreover, the technology used in making these lenses also improves light distribution, while increasing the optical image contrast between distance and intermediate vision by 16%. The PanOptix Pro is expected to be available in Canada from Alcon Inc. (NYSE:ALC) in the single-use Clareon AutonoMe preloaded delivery system by early 2026. Alcon Inc. (NYSE:ALC) is a leading eye care company that specializes in developing a range of eye care products. The company operates through two main business segments, including the Surgical Business and Vision Care Business. While we acknowledge the potential of ALC as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: The Best and Worst Dow Stocks for the Next 12 Months and 10 Unstoppable Stocks That Could Double Your Money. Disclosure: None. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
12 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Social Security's 2026 COLA Is Shaping Up to Be a No-Win Scenario for Retirees
With inflation rising, retirees are paying higher prices now but won't receive a benefit increase until later. The key inflation metric used to calculate the Social Security COLA doesn't fully reflect retirees' higher costs. Less accurate data collection this year could increase the odds that the 2026 COLA doesn't keep up with inflation. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › What if your Social Security retirement benefits never increased? The buying power of those benefits would steadily erode over time due to inflation. Many retirees would soon find themselves in dire straits. The good news is that your Social Security benefits usually increase each year to help keep up with inflation. Since 1975, a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) has been calculated annually and applied to all Social Security benefits. But there's bad news, too. Social Security's 2026 COLA is shaping up to be a no-win scenario for retirees. To be sure, we don't know yet what the 2026 Social Security COLA will be. The amount of the benefit increase won't be announced until mid-October. The Social Security Administration must wait for the September inflation data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) before finalizing its calculation of next year's COLA. However, that doesn't mean we can't have a reasonable idea about what the 2026 Social Security COLA might be as things stand now. Each month, The Senior Citizens League (TSCL), a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for seniors, crunches the numbers to project the next COLA. There has been a clear trend in TSCL's Social Security COLA predictions. For four consecutive months, the projected increase has continued to rise. The organization's latest projected COLA, announced on June 11, 2025, is 2.5%, up from 2.4% the previous month. This trend is due mainly to slowly rising inflation. And it could keep moving higher. Many economists expect accelerating inflation in the second half of 2025 as the full brunt of the Trump administration's tariffs is felt. The Social Security COLA is intended to protect benefits from being eroded by inflation. Why would retirees face a no-win scenario if inflation keeps rising? For one thing, the timing works against them. They must pay higher prices now but won't receive a benefits increase until later. The 2026 COLA won't hit Social Security payments until January. There's also another issue. The Social Security COLA is calculated using an inflation metric called the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). This metric attempts to measure the price increases experienced by blue-collar workers who live in areas with large populations. But the CPI-W is a much maligned metric. The Libertarian-leaning Cato Institute has called the CPI-W an "outdated measure" that is "riddled with measurement errors." TSCL has pointed out that the CPI-W assumes workers spend around 7% of their income on healthcare, but seniors can spend 16% or more of their income on healthcare. The primary issue is that the CPI-W focuses on working Americans rather than retirees. In a 2024 study, TSCL found that the disconnect has caused Social Security recipients to lose roughly 20% of their buying power since 2010. Several organizations, including TSCL, believe that an alternative metric, the Consumer Price Index for the Elderly (CPI-E), would better reflect the impact of inflation on older Americans. However, the CPI-W will be used for the 2026 Social Security COLA calculation -- and it could perpetuate the cycle of retirees receiving a smaller benefit increase than they probably should get. To make matters worse, the data used to calculate the CPI-W this year could be significantly less reliable than it's been in the past. Why? According to The Wall Street Journal, a hiring freeze at the BLS has forced the agency to use a less accurate method to estimate prices because it doesn't have enough workers to collect the same amount of information as in previous years. If the CPI-W is based on suspect data, the 2026 Social Security COLA will be suspect. TSCL executive director Shannon Benton said in a press release, "Inaccurate or unreliable data in the CPI dramatically increases the likelihood that seniors receive a COLA that's lower than actual inflation." She added that this could "cost seniors thousands of dollars over the course of their retirement." Things could be worse, of course. Any COLA is better than no COLA at all. However, retirees face the prospects of paying higher prices before they receive extra money, a key inflation metric that doesn't fully reflect the prices they pay, and potentially inaccurate inflation data that could skew the COLA amount. Social Security's 2026 COLA really is shaping up to be a no-win scenario for retirees. If you're like most Americans, you're a few years (or more) behind on your retirement savings. But a handful of little-known could help ensure a boost in your retirement income. One easy trick could pay you as much as $23,760 more... each year! Once you learn how to maximize your Social Security benefits, we think you could retire confidently with the peace of mind we're all after. Join Stock Advisor to learn more about these Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Social Security's 2026 COLA Is Shaping Up to Be a No-Win Scenario for Retirees was originally published by The Motley Fool Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
