In September, many YCYW Class of 2024 graduates have embarked on new learning journeys at universities. Meanwhile, at this same time, Yew Chung Year 13 and Yew Wah Grade 12 students are now preparing their university applications.

Given the increasingly diverse admission requirements of universities and colleges both in China and internationally, how should students and parents make their final decisions about university applications? Moreover, how can junior-high school students plan effectively for their future studies?

From initial IGCSE course selection to job shadowing experiences, from standardised exam preparation to school selection and final applications, the Careers and University Guidance Counsellors (Counsellors) at YCYW schools are the driving force behind the successful applications of our students.

In the new academic year, the YCYW Careers and University Guidance Office (CUGO) team has excellent resources and strategies. The team members stand ready to support all students and guide them towards their dream universities.

As the number of applicants continues to rise, the competition has become much more intense. For example, Mr Liu noted that Cornell University's acceptance rate had dropped from 20 percent in 2008, to only 7.3 percent in 2022.

He explained, "I don't think the way that they evaluate students has changed. There are just more students applying. As the number of applicants increase, students need to try harder to present themselves and explain who they are. They really need to come across much more sharply. More importantly, students need to be clear about what they are applying to and need to have an in-depth understanding of the institutions they are applying to."

Mr Christopher Quach, Director of Undergraduate International Admissions at Columbia University in the US confirmed this view.

Speaking at the YCYW Career and University Guidance Webinar on 9 September, Mr Quach noted that among the large number of applications that Columbia receives, many applicants struggle to effectively articulate their fit with the university.

He elaborated: "I think it's always important for those students, who are doing their research and finding that they are really seriously interested in Columbia, to really make those connections in their application. This is particularly important for our Columbia supplement, where you must explain your unique interests and what makes Columbia uniquely suited to help you further those interests. What is it? What really draws you to us, and what makes you want to be part of this community? Our resources? Our campus facilities? Particular faculty members? Or perhaps the culture of the students that you find here?"

Mr Liu emphasised, "Applying to a university is not about checking boxes. It doesn't matter how many things you list. If you don't explain how they have influenced you and your values, and why you are applying to this particular university, it won't help you at all."

Only after thoroughly understanding their school choices, can applicants present a compelling story about themselves and find genuine enjoyment and fulfillment in their future university studies.

Dr Betty Chan Po-king, CEO and School Supervisor of YCYW, has said, "Our mission as educators is to prepare children for the future—and their future is not only about being admitted to a prestigious university. What we are concerned about is educating students for their future."

CUGO's approach aligns with this philosophy. The primary purpose of counselling about future careers and tertiary education during Years 7 to 13 (Grades 6 to 12 at Yew Wah) is to offer structured and comprehensive guidance. This helps students make informed decisions about their academic and career paths, ultimately teaching them to plan their lives for the long term.

At YCYW, there is no one, fixed pathway to higher education for all students. Instead, each student follows a personalised programme tailored to their unique needs.

In Year 7 for Yew Chung  students and Grade 6 for Yew Wah students, the Counsellors provide guidance on academic pathways, to help students understand how subject choices they make will relate to future studies and careers. When students begin their IB or A Level studies, the Counsellors provide personalised guidance on course selections, and make recommendations based on each student's academic abilities, interests, and career aspirations.

Mr Liu highlighted YCIS Shanghai's "Me at 30" project, in which Year 11 students are asked to think about their future careers and lifestyles in their 30s. This initiative encourages students to consider what type of work they want to do, and what lifestyle they hope to have.

After completing their IGCSE exams, students have the opportunity to participate in the job shadowing programme organised by the schools. This programme allows students to gain insights about society and themselves through experiences in real work settings.

When explaining the role of parents in their children's education and career development, Mr Liu described the task as being an "honest partner".

"So, what do I mean by that? Be honest with your children about what your expectations are. At the same time, be honest with yourself, about what expectations you should have for your child," he explained.

He encourages parents to be actively involved in their children's learning journeys and to make progress along with them. Every month, the schools host career and university guidance workshops for parents, covering topics such as university pedagogy, analysis of foreign university systems, and standardised exams and language tests.

For families considering using an agency for studying abroad, he recommends that parents maintain communication with the school's counsellors, as they have close ties with universities and their advice is more trusted by these institutions.

"The students, the counsellors, and the parents are the participants in the university application process. It's crucial that we share the same goal—to help the students find the best fit—and to maintain clear communication and understanding," he said.