Hiba Academy Shanghai's inaugural University Fair was a tremendous success. On 15 March more than 140 university admissions officers from the UK, North America , Europe, Australia and Asia joined us for a constructive day of morning conference and afternoon of university fair of workshops and Q&A sessions.
This was a unique opportunity for our pupils and parents to explore the diverse array of future pathways available to them and connect face-to-face with representatives from variousuniversities. The event was met with much enthusiasm, drawing more than 1000 registrations from Hiba families as well as external attendees.
The University Fair allowed our pupils to learn about the wealth of opportunities that are out there after they graduate. This was also a way for them to draw deeper connections between their studies and potential careers and to learn how they can sharpen their focus and develop their skills accordingly.
But this was not just an information session. This was also an opportunity for Hiba pupils to act as school ambassadors. Many of them conducted campus tours, demonstrating impressive confidence and maturity. The message to admissions officers: You want Hiba graduates in your schools!
For our Higher Education and Careers team, this fair provided valuable external networking opportunities. So, looking ahead, they will be even more effective at helping our pupils find the school that is best for them.
This fair also came on the heels of a very important Hiba milestone. Last year, we became one of the first schools worldwide — and the first Wellington College China school — to receive official recognition from Times Higher Education (THE). We also proudly appointed the first-ever accredited THE counsellor, ensuring our pupils receive guidance aligned with the highest global standards.
The fair was an immense benefit to the wider Hiba community too, directly addressing parents' concerns about their children's higher education prospects through face-to-face meetings, discussions and consultations. Our Secondary School families were keen to attend afternoon panel session and what today’s universities look for in applicants. The admissions officers also provide highly personalised guidance to Hiba Families at dedicated booths.
But the University Fair is just one service our Higher Education and Careers provides. From grade 8 to grade 12, every Hiba pupil has regular sessions with their personal counsellor. We think of it as a 'Five-year-Dialogue' in which pupils take the lead in planning their desired pathway through in-depth discussions and activities.
Following the University Fair, our annual Careers Day is next on the calendar. Over the summer, another group will start internships through our HCEP programme as well.
A Hiba education comprises every experience shaping and illuminating each pupil's chosen path.
