Typically, trimester one in the High School at AIS includes welcoming guests from universities across the globe to our campus to meet with our students and talk about higher education opportunities. In addition to individual visits, AIS hosts an annual university fair, that includes a broad range of universities. This event kicks off the year by getting students excited about their future. With travel restrictions and increased health and safety measures, we were unable to host in-person visits this fall. 

With crisis comes opportunity, and the possibility of doing something different, exciting and positive for our community. In partnership with MaiaLearning, a College & Career Planning Platform used in over 65 countries to streamline and manage the career and university planning process, AIS spearheaded the first ever virtual university fair to be conducted via the MaiaLearning Virtual Admissions Office feature. The fair was inclusive of several other international schools in Hong Kong and was attended by the following universities:  

Working closely with MaiaLearning, we discussed ways to streamline the student interface and improve their experience. Additionally, our Head of Counseling & Student Support, Ms. Bumpus reviewed feedback from other virtual university fairs and took additional steps to design our fair and student preparation intentionally to maximize student exposure and opportunity to learn, ask relevant questions and connect with university representatives. These representatives are often the individuals reading student applications and making the admission decision, thus connecting with and making a good impression is advantageous within the university application process. 

Students prepared in advisory by reviewing the participating universities, creating a schedule of universities to visit. In addition, students reviewed professional etiquette skills, such as how to ask a meaningful question, how to demonstrate interest, and how to write a professional follow up thank you email.  On Wednesday, 14 October the MaiaLearning Hong Kong Virtual University Fair kicked off our College Prep day, which included the fair, PSAT for grades 9-11 students and Application Day for senior students.

The fair exceeded our expectations and provided AIS students with opportunities to engage with visioning their future. A big thank you to all who helped make this event a success.