Strong interest in American universities

Strong interest American in universities

A special information session for students interested in studying at American universities gave them a fascinating insight into all the exciting options on offer, says Teacher in Charge of Academic Extension and Enrichment, Ellen Hampson, who organised the session with Academic Captain, Luke Zhu. “It was a wellreceived session with around 24 Year 12 and 13 students attending. They heard from US Education Ambassador, Ron Mitchell, and Old Collegian, Alan Fu (OC 2020), who joined us online from America to talk about his experiences at university there, and to share his top tips.”

A high quality education, transferrable work experience, career opportunities, and the ability to travel and make new friends from around the globe are some of the benefits of studying in America.

Alan Fu says his key advice for students was to start preparing early, do lots of research into various universities, and have a clear goal in mind for what they are aiming for. “To stand out in a large pool of applicants it is important to be a wellrounded student, and not to undersell yourself, or underestimate the quality of education and opportunities you have had at St Andrew’s. American high schoolers are trained to brag about themselves, so put the humble Kiwi attitude aside,” he says.

Another Old Collegian, Kate Allan (OC 2020) joined the Teams meeting at the end, and passed on her key message about the importance of students building a strong network and community once in America, and surrounding themselves with a good friendship group.

Ellen Hampson says her main advice is for students to aim high, take at least two or three SATs (standardised tests), and to sign up to the University of Canterbury’s STAR Course Mathematics 199. “A lot of the curriculum in the USA is very different, so it is wise for students to do a lot of learning and research early so they can try and bridge the gaps.”

A sports scholarship is another way to access an education at an American university. Top basketballer, Charlotte Whittaker (OC 2018), had multiple offers, which she narrowed down to four universities, before choosing a full basketball scholarship at the University of Colorado Boulder. “It is in a beautiful location, had my degree choices, and some of the most compassionate, supportive, and driven coaches, who would not only invest in me as a basketball player, but as a person.”

When Charlotte was back in New Zealand recently, she spoke to Sports Performance students about her experiences and challenges, and her dream to play in the Women’s NBA or in Europe. She highlighted the immense opportunities, and also the challenges and adversity she has faced, including enduring five major hip surgeries and being away from family. “Being away from home was a huge emotional adjustment. It was hard at the start but as I realised home will always be there, it was easier to go back to Colorado each year. The resilience and mindset I’ve developed due to this adversity has been so important in my personal growth and development.”

Charlotte’s other key advice for other sports students considering scholarships are to make the first move by sending highlight tapes and videos to coaches and schools; study and learn SAT; continue to work hard and improve their craft; keep an open mind; and enjoy their time there. “Learning a new culture and meeting amazing people who will forever be part of my extended family are some of the special things I will take from this experience.”

Academic Captain, Luke Zhu (Year 13), and Teacher in Charge of Academic Extension and Enrichment, Ellen Hampson Charlotte Whittaker (OC 2018) with students during her recent visit to St Andrew’s.