Taking the next step, together: How our UAC Advisors support each student’s future options, one conversation at a time
By Shruti Tewari and Pamela Wetzell, Heads of University Advising, Dover and East campuses
17 December 2024
For many students, UWCSEA is more than just a place of learning—it’s a home, a place where they feel supported, understood, and encouraged to grow. As they approach the next steps in their journey—whether that’s university, a gap year, or something else—we’re here to help them take those steps with confidence.
Our role is to help students advocate for themselves and guide them to become successful in their post-UWCSEA journey. It’s beautiful to see young people think about their future opportunities. After their parents and grandparents, we’re probably the most excited about where they end up!
Shruti Tewari, Head of UAC, Dover Campus
UWCSEA Dover UAC Team. Top: Nakul Malik, Li Hui Tan, Shruti Tewari. Middle: Ramie Jacobson, Laura Severin, Shilpa Gupta. Bottom: Maria Carvalho, Emily Tay, Gabrielle Dorsey.
UWCSEA East UAC Team. From left to right: Irene Mok, Mala Swaminathan, Rachel Garcia, Nicola Dinsdale, Pamela Kelly Wetzell, Patrick Desbarats and Alex Feinson.
We view the university application process as a real opportunity for students to think about who they are, their identity, and what’s important to them. As advisors, we hope students will gain skills in self-reflection, self-advocacy, and informed decision-making through the university application process.
– Pamela Kelly Wetzell, Head of UAC, East Campus
Imagining futures and shaping journeys
The UAC begins working with students in Grade 9, laying the groundwork for curiosity and self-discovery as they explore their interests and think about the future. Students are introduced to Maia Learning, a digital resource platform for universities worldwide. By Grade 10, this exploration becomes more intentional; students map out potential careers and identify their strengths through career interest profilers. These online tools, paired with our advisors’ guidance, help them make thoughtful choices about their future pathways as they prepare for Grade 11 and life after UWCSEA.
Once students reach Grade 11, our support is more personalised. Beginning in January, we meet one-on-one with each student, getting to know their ambitions, hopes, and concerns, and forming relationships that allow us to guide them and their families through each step. This is not just about applications and deadlines but about truly understanding and supporting each student as they plan their future pathway.
Taking the pressure off for the path ahead
We know that for many families, the university application process can feel overwhelming, and it’s normal to have concerns. That’s why we’ve created plenty of opportunities for families to talk things through—whether it’s exploring options, addressing worries, or just having a chat about what’s ahead. Our goal is to ease any anxieties and help everyone feel confident during this exciting time.
To help keep the conversation going, we host a range of community events. We organise UAC Conversations (Dover) and Cup of College (East) for informal chats between parents and advisors, Coffee Mornings for discussions with Heads of Grade, and Transition Evenings with advice from parents who’ve been through the process. Through events like the Lion City Fair, hosting over 140 universities, and the annual Careers Fair, organised with our Parents’ Associations, students and families have a chance to explore career options with university representatives, professionals, and industry experts. Plus, Careers Fair 2025 is just around the corner on Saturday, 18 January—another exciting chance to explore future possibilities!
This next chapter is just the beginning, and we’re honoured to guide students as they take their first steps toward becoming changemakers.
UAC tips for parents!
Be understanding in your approach
This whole process can bring up a lot of feelings, so patience and sensitivity go a long way. Be mindful of how you talk to your child about their future and universities. Whether they’re excited, nervous, or unsure, make sure they feel heard and supported. Sometimes, just listening can mean the world.
There’s no one right path
It’s easy to think university is the only way, but remind your child that there’s no one-size-fits-all. Whether they go to university, take a gap year, or explore something else, there are plenty of ways to reach their goals. Encourage them to follow their instincts and embrace their own path with confidence.
Get comfortable with change
The future’s unpredictable, and that’s okay! Help your child stay open to new ideas—careers and opportunities may come up that we can’t even imagine yet! Teach them to adapt, see change as a chance to grow, and stay excited for what’s ahead.
Visit the UAC website for more information!