College Counseling Brings Global Perspectives to TAS Students

This spring, Taipei American School’s College Counseling Office has welcomed a steady stream of university representatives to campus, offering students direct access to institutions and insights from around the world.

With more than 60 universities already confirmed to visit campus this spring, and at least one visit scheduled each day through April, the program reflects both the growing global reach of higher education and the school’s commitment to helping students make informed, thoughtful decisions about their futures. This includes larger-scale events such as a UK mini fair, which brought together 17 universities, for a focused engagement with Grade 10 and 11 students.

The College Counseling Office offers a diverse range of opportunities for students and families to engage with universities each year. “We develop a range of opportunities for students and families to engage with admissions officers, whether through large fairs, panel presentations, workshops, or having them join our classes as guest speakers,” explains John Gursky, Associate Director of College Counseling. “We are fortunate to have hundreds of admissions officers visit campus annually and encourage students to engage with our admission colleagues as they offer valuable perspective, and are often the people actually reading our students’ applications.”

This approach reflects a broader goal of ensuring students are equipped to navigate an increasingly complex global higher education landscape. “In a constantly changing world – economically, geopolitically, and otherwise, it is important for students and families to have options. Exposure to a wide range of institutions helps students and families better understand what might be the right fit for them,” Director of College Counseling, Melanie Hamre, shared. 

In addition to Canada-focused sessions, the College Counseling Office has also introduced regional spotlights designed to broaden student perspectives. Presentations featuring universities from countries such as the Netherlands - destinations that may be less familiar to some students – are intentionally included to expand awareness and encourage exploration beyond more traditional pathways. “The sessions pushed me to think beyond reputation and rankings,” a Grade 11 student noted. “I started paying more attention to how different systems would actually shape my experience.”

These sessions are often integrated into the school’s college counseling curriculum. Starting in the spring of junior year, students participate in regular classes that guide them through the admissions process while helping them understand the range of options available to them. Some presentations are optional, while others are required for students considering specific regions or systems, ensuring both flexibility and depth in the process. “As a parent, it is reassuring to see the school providing a wide range of exposure,” one TAS parent reflected. “It helps students make decisions based on understanding rather than assumptions.”

Looking ahead, the College Counseling Office will continue to refine and expand its programming, informed by feedback gathered annually from graduating seniors about their application process and outcomes. These insights help ensure that the approach remains responsive and continues to support students in defining their next steps beyond high school.