Supporting Students on Their College Journey

The process of identifying, researching, and applying to colleges is a pivotal aspect of a student's educational journey. Every experience, both inside and outside the classroom, shapes students' decisions about their future academic paths. However, this process can often feel overwhelming for students and their families due to its complexity and the anxiety surrounding outcomes.

The University Counseling Office at International Independent Schools Khalda is dedicated to providing students with the guidance, support, and information they need to navigate the process smoothly. The office serves as a liaison with university admissions offices, highlighting each student's strengths, contextualizing their achievements, and offering robust advocacy to help colleges make well-informed decisions.

Role of the University Counseling Office:

• Personal Support: The counselor acts as an advocate for the student, offering guidance through the college search and application process while serving as a resource for exploring academic options.
• Maximizing Admission Opportunities: The counselor helps each student enhance their chances of gaining admission to their preferred universities.
• Crafting Recommendation Letters: By incorporating insights from teachers, coaches, parents, and the student, the counseling office prepares personalized recommendation letters for every applicant.

Our Approach:

• Comprehensive Perspective: The counselor evaluates each student holistically, gathering insights from diverse sources, including faculty, parents, and the students themselves.
• Parental and Faculty Input: Parents and teachers complete surveys to identify the unique qualities that make each student stand out.

Early Preparation:

• Although formal work with the counseling office begins in Grade 11, students from Grades 6 to 12 attend weekly advisory sessions to prepare them for college readiness.
• The counseling office collaborates closely with the advisory faculty to align the curriculum with the school’s broader vision.

Student Responsibilities:

Students are encouraged to take the lead during their college search and application process by:

• Taking Initiative: Being accountable for their academic performance, community involvement, and self-management.
• Engaging Actively: Dedicating themselves to the logistical aspects of researching and applying to universities.

Supporting Families and Students:

This overview is designed to clarify procedures, outline policies, and provide relevant information to guide students and their families through this important process. The counseling office encourages every student to take full advantage of the resources and support available to achieve their academic and personal goals.