CANDIDATE: SJ, India, Mumbai

CURRICULUM: IBDP

SCHOOL: Oberoi International School

SUBJECTS: Biology HL, Chemistry HL, Business Management HL, English Language and Literature SL, Maths SL and French B

AP SUBJECTS: None

GRADES: 43/45

INTERESTED MAJOR: Undergraduate Veterinary Medicine

Approach

SJ joined us in grade 11 with a clear goal of pursuing veterinary medicine. To strengthen her profile for competitive UK programmes, we helped her systematically build both clinical and non-clinical experience across species and settings to meet individual university requirements.

Our preparation extended beyond placements. We introduced SJ to current debates in veterinary science, ethical frameworks outlined by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, and structured interview strategies. Under our guidance, SJ carefully refined her Personal Statement to convey her motivations, practical exposure, and sustained commitment to animal welfare.

The holistic preparation of combining targeted experience, ethical awareness and interview confidence positioned her as a strong candidate, resulting in offers from leading UK veterinary schools.

JOURNEY

GRADE 10

  • Committee Head, Mynathon initiative to distribute feminine hygiene products in local communities.
  • Attended the National University of Singapore Science Summer Programme.
  • Completed Veterinary Science Internship (InvestIN, UK).
  • Volunteered at Action Animal Club, raising awareness and funds for animal welfare.
  • Fostered injured dogs, fed over fifty strays daily, and cared for six. 


GRADE 11

  • Founded Save the K9S at school to fundraise and advocate for animal welfare.
  • Organised TEDxYouth event at school, developing leadership and teamwork skills.
  • Assisted at Top Dogs Pet Clinic with diagnostics, pet histories, and observed surgeries.
  • Trained at Central Poultry Development Organisation, Mumbai, focusing on livestock care, vaccination and biosecurity.
  • Volunteered at Samovila Animal Foundation.
  • Researched the health risks of breeding dogs with BOA.
  • Attended the University of Nottingham’s online course on veterinary practice
  • Completed Introduction to Veterinary Medicine (EDIVET, University of Edinburgh)


GRADE 12

  • Completed Equine Welfare and Management (UC Davis, six-week course).
  • Attended University of Bristol Destination Vet Summer School; practised suturing, bandaging, lambing, and anatomy dissection; awarded Most Enthusiastic Student.
  • Interned at Japalouppe Equestrian Centre, caring for ex-racehorses.
  • Volunteered at a local shelter, handling disabled animals and managing medications.

OUTCOME

Offers from

University of Edinburgh
University of Bristol
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.