The Importance of Attending University Visits

Living and studying in Singapore have many advantages; to begin with we’re part of a very  multi-cultural community.  Singapore is also a modern, clean, and safe country.  The travel opportunities around Asia and the chances to volunteer in different countries in this region all add to the positives of living in Singapore.  However, for those interested in pursuing degrees in North America or Europe, the disadvantage is that we are very far away for students and their families visit to university campuses.  We believe that visiting different universities is an extremely valuable way for students to identify a place that will be a good fit for them.  Walking around campus, meeting current students and sitting in on classes is a great way to get a feel for a particular place.  However, in the absence of an actual visit, another important element of a student’s research and skill-building is the opportunity to meet university representatives who visit UWCSEA East.

It is a testament to the reputation of UWCSEA that even without a graduating class this year, we have been very lucky to have so many university representatives walk through our doors. Representatives have met with students and presented about the university system in their country, how universities make admissions and financial aid decisions, and what is appealing and unique about particular colleges and universities.

Last week we wrote about networking online and this week we are extending that thought.  We encourage Grade 11 students to meet and network with university representatives.  These professionals are looking to generate interest in their institutions.  They come with brochures and business cards, and many welcome student contact after the visit.  We expect that the visitors this year will return next year and several will offer interviews to potential applicants.   Attending presentations by university representatives can give students valuable practice in meeting and interacting with admissions professionals.

While attending the presentations by university representatives, students should be developing a  list of important factors in their ideal university.   We want them to consider their interests, expectations and future plans and how those match with what is on offer at various universities.   It’s important for them to find a place that offers the courses and activities that they would like to pursue.  Location and setting may have an impact; weather may be another factor to consider.  Students should ask representatives, therefore, questions about what student life is like in the broadest sense, and find information about the services and support offered to international students, opportunities for internships and work experience, and prospects for graduate school and employment.

With this in mind, here are some questions students can ask at the next university visit:

• How large are the freshman classes?   How easy is it to get to know professors?
• Are these research opportunities for undergraduates?  What are the most popular majors?
• What type of housing is available?   Are the residence halls co-ed?  What are gender-neutral bathrooms?
• Is it mandatory to sign up for a meal plan?   Are there options for those with food allergies or other dietary restrictions?
• What is the university best known for?  What percentage of the student population/teaching faculty is international?  What kind of advising system is in place?  Where do graduates go after they leave?

Universities differ not only in size and location, but also in political leanings and global orientation.  It is important to dig beneath the surface of glossy brochures and get a sense of what the experience of attending a particular university would be.  When students listen attentively to visitors’ talks, it’s possible to glean a few things that they highlight about their schools.  Much of the information given at university visits can be used in application essays to show an understanding of a particular school and demonstrate genuine interest in it, which is a tipping factor in admissions at some colleges.

Upcoming university visits are listed in the UAC’s Google Calendar on our UAC GoogleSite.  If your family has the chance to visit universities that your child is considering, by all means do so.  If you won’t be able to travel to see university campuses firsthand, or in the meantime, please  encourage your Grade 11 child to start their university research by attending university visits at the UAC.