Unlocking Global Educational Opportunities

Ms Keer Xu

University Counsellor

The 2025 Wellington University Fair adopted a fresh approach this year, centring its discussions on two pivotal questions for Wellington pupils and parents：

Session A: 

The Trend of Multi-Country Applications in a Competitive Era

Session A of the University Fair invited pupils and parents to engage in close conversations with representatives from 19 top universities across Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, the UK, and the USA. This cross-continental dialogue on studying abroad was complemented by four highly popular themed lectures, which were packed with attendees, including many parents who stayed for the entire series. The lectures covered practical information on studying in the UK, the USA, Australia, Canada, and Europe, addressing key concerns such as:

Each lecture sparked lively discussions and interactions, with participants expressing that they had gained valuable insights and a clearer direction for their study abroad plans. 

Simulated Customs Experience:

Passport in Hand, Collecting Stamps at University Booths 

To ensure that every pupil had a fulfilling experience at the fair, we created a unique "passport" – a tool for pupils to collect stamps while visiting booths, as well as a notebook to record their thoughts and reflections. This passport also included carefully designed basic and advanced application questions, presented in watermark form, to reveal key details and core aspects of the application process. 

These questions, ranging from whether one can apply to both Oxford and Cambridge simultaneously in the UK, to the importance of teacher recommendations and application fees, aim to equip pupils with essential knowledge to navigate the challenges of further education. 

Parent Engagement: Bridging the Information Gap and Focusing on Real Needs 

Prior to the fair, we organised an interactive session for parents – auniversity application knowledge quiz. By posing a series of application-related questions, such as "What is the difference between a UK placement and a Canadian co-op?", parents were able to experience firsthand the information gap that exists in the application process. In the advanced knowledge competition, the top parent answered 6/16 questions correctly. The purpose of this activity was not to judge right or wrong, but to help parents understand that the core of university planning is not about pursuing grades, but about delving into the details and understanding their child's needs and future direction. We believe that only through the joint growth of parents and children can we pave the way for better future choices. 

Additionally, we set up a "Time Capsule Mailbox" booth, inviting pupils and parents to write their current thoughts and hopes for the future on postcards. This activity not only provided an opportunity for family communication but also created a precious record of their voices at this moment, to be reflected upon in the future.