This past week, I was able to visit the NYU Abu Dhabi to learn about the university and their processes and programmes. It was a very informative and inspirational experience that gave me a lot of insight and guidance on advising students at WIS who plan to continue their education at a liberal arts institution. The idea of a liberal arts education stems. “Liberal arts education is typically broad-based and exposes students to science, mathematics, social sciences, and humanities. This broad knowledge of the wider world will prepare you to deal with complexity, diversity, and change. A liberal arts education will also help you develop a strong sense of social responsibility as well as strong and transferable intellectual and practical skills, such as communication, analytical, and problem-solving abilities, and a demonstrated ability to apply knowledge and skills in real-world settings.” (Coalition for College). This type of education becomes more and more prominent in today’s society as well as in the workforce. Being able to have a broad idea about all fields of study and being able to navigate a world of complexity, diversity and change is a critical skill that our education needs to relay to young people, because they are undoubtedly having to be able to find their way in such a world once they leave their homes and enter the workplace.
NYU Abu Dhabi transfers these important skills through their diverse community and courses to young people. Being able to think critically, communicate clearly, and solve complex problems are skills that are much further transferable than content knowledge and can be applied to all different kinds of situations in real life.
This coming week, I will be attending the BMI/Times Higher Education Global International Schools Forum and Workshop. “A crucial element of The Global International Schools Forum & Workshop is the opportunity to participate in expert-level sessions that form part of the Times Higher Education Counsellor Accreditation Programme (THE CAP) Level 2. These sessions have been created "by counsellors, for counsellors" and they will help you gain new insights in international education, enhance your knowledge when supporting students applying overseas and discuss key issues facing today's international college counsellors.
During one-on-one appointments with participating universities and colleges, we will receive updates on the latest application procedures and documentation required for students who plan to enter a university or college abroad, as well as ask any questions we may have about the institutions, face-to-face. During the second half of the week we will visit some of the best universities in the UK. (http://www.bmieducationworkshops.org/global.html).
I am excited about this opportunity to connect with universities and counselling experts from around the world and to bring back information and knowledge that can benefit my work with students advising them on their plans for the future.
Maggie Reiff
Secondary Principal and Career Guidance Counsellor