For Grade 11 students and their parents at this stage of the school year, few things feel as daunting as deciphering the countless pathways available after graduation. Add to that the seemingly endless to-do lists and crucial deadlines, and it can quickly become overwhelming.
This is where NIS College Counselors Makiko Hayashida and Paul Moody truly shine. Even before students reach Grade 11, they are primed with information sessions as early as Grade 9 or 10. They will also plan to attend events like the annual University Fair hosted by NIS each spring. Throughout the year, the counselors coordinate meetings with university representatives and keep their doors open to listen, guide, and support students through the journey.
Again this year, the counselors designed an evening event before Spring Break to help both students and just as importantly, parents develop a clear roadmap for the next critical steps in the college application process. Together with Secondary Principal Lisa Nnadozie, they encouraged students to reflect on some big, existential questions:
- What do you want to be?
- Which country do you want to study in?
- Where do you see yourself in the future?
These are big, sometimes intimidating questions—but also exciting ones! With the guidance of experienced school leaders who have supported many former NIS students before them, participants began to shift from considering their future to actively planning for it. While the next six months will be crucial, breaking the process down into manageable steps makes it far less overwhelming. Since much of this work will need to happen over the summer when counselors won’t be as readily available, this “College Info and Summer Tasks Session” was introduced to provide a structured approach.
Ultimately, however, the responsibility lies with the students. They must take ownership of their journey, researching institutions, completing applications, and gathering necessary documents such as references and letters of recommendation. Parents play a vital role in providing support, helping to keep students on track and informed. While NIS provides guidance and mentorship, success is ultimately going to be determined by the effort students put in.
Earlier in the day, the Grade 11 students attended their own learning session, ensuring that by the time their parents arrived for the evening event, they were well-prepared—and maybe even able to reassure their parents! Those who have been through the process before know that, in hindsight, they gain valuable insights and wisdom. The goal of this session was to ensure that students and families have access to these insights before the process begins, easing stress and confusion.
The road to university acceptance is long and sometimes challenging, but through events like this and the many layers of support provided by NIS, the journey can also be exciting and rewarding. As students prepare to take their next steps into the vast world of opportunities ahead, one thing is certain—the Class of 2026 is well on its way.
We can’t wait to see what amazing things they accomplish!
