National University of Singapore

CANDIDATE: SP, India, Bangalore

CURRICULUM: IBDP

SCHOOL: Stonehill International school

SUBJECTS: HLs: Math AA, Physics, Chemistry | SLs: Psychology, Hindi B, English

AP SUBJECTS: None

PREDICTED GRADES: 44/45

SAT/ACT SCORE: 1550 (SAT)

INTERESTED MAJOR: Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Engineering Science

Approach

We helped SP deepen his engagement with science through skill-building activities. He also established a lasting legacy by founding the school’s aeromodelling club. He also received tailored guidance on applications across different geographies, factoring in financial aid needs, along with extensive essay support.

JOURNEY

GRADE 9

  • Led an initiative to support honey farmers with sales during COVID.
  • Represented school & local club team in basketball and swimming.
  • Played TT, badminton, and was engaged in horse riding and surfing.
  • Student Council member.


GRADE 10

  • Continued to support honey farmers.
  • Continued sports initiatives.
  • Hosted the STEM Science Bowl, an inter-school science quiz to spread the love for science and learning across 20+ IBDP schools.


GRADE 11 & 12

  • Transitioned responsibilities to juniors to support honey farmers with sales.
  • Continued sports initiatives.
  • Continued hosting STEM Science Bowl.
  • Completed an Omotec skilling course in electronics, which helped him conduct college-level research for his EE in physics.
  • Earned a certificate in Aeromodelling.
  • Founded an Aeromodelling Club in school to share interests and knowledge. 
  • Held an aeromodelling show for high school.

OUTCOME

Offers from

NUS
University of Chicago
University of Toronto
Purdue University
new york university

CANDIDATE:  
AN

GRE/GMAT:
Did not take

GPA:
3.43/4.0 (as per her WES evaluation)

Qualification:
BA Economics

Work Experience:
Less than six months

Admitted to:
NYU

Background

AN aimed for an MS in Marketing in the US and the UK. The applicant was prompt in balancing the WES evaluation and other application components. However, while brainstorming the SOP we encountered a challenge. The applicant lacked sufficient work experience, which is gained through internships. They only had a two-month marketing internship in a finance company. However, as an undergraduate, the applicant was editor-in-chief of the college magazine, co-authored academic papers and hosted an Instagram series on mental health, diversity, and the LGBTQ+ community.

Approach

While storyboarding, we strategically guided the applicant to match their academic endeavours with their desire to become an inclusive impact marketer. As an editor, writer and social media content creator for diversity and inclusivity, AN developed excellent communication skills, an understanding of different people, and concise and compelling storytelling abilities. We advised the applicant to position themself as a collaborative marketing person who understood diverse needs, has problem-solving skills and was familiar with contemporary communication platforms.

Key Takeaway

AN exemplifies how storyboarding with expert counsellors can help applicants identify experiences that align with their goals. Our strategic advice proved valuable, and the applicant received offers from programmes of their choice. It reinforced the fact that transferable skills, like problem-solving, communication, collaboration and technical proficiency, are greatly valued and can compensate for work experience.