Choosing the right university pathway can feel overwhelming for students and parents alike. At Hamelin-Laie International School, Baccalaureate students receive personalised guidance, practical preparation, and expert support to help them make confident decisions about their future.
Meet Matvii, one of our International Baccalaureate students, as he shares how Hamelin-Laie is helping him prepare for university applications, interviews, personal statements and future opportunities.
Just the thought of applying to university might cause distress for some, especially when you aren’t 100% set on what your next step after school will be. With too many options to consider, many deadlines, and big decisions that need to be made, it can get overwhelming.
My name is Matvii, and I am a student at Hamelin-Laie International School. I just finished Year 12, and I am currently in the process of preparing for university applications. I am looking to go into the field of Social Sciences, possibly Economics, Finance, or Psychology, but I have not yet decided what exactly I will be studying after I finish the IB Diploma. Fortunately, the process is really well managed at the school. The guidance we are getting has made the preparation process much less stressful.
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Regular assemblies throughout the last two years of our High School education have been helpful in guiding us through the process. I’m never guessing what comes next. We have been given a calendar that shows when the deadlines are to apply to universities all around the world. I feel very well informed when it comes to what is expected of me.
One of the most valuable experiences in the preparation process came last week, when other students and I had the opportunity to attend a seminar with a Career Coach. The session was focused on building an effective CV and developing the skills needed to succeed in professional interviews, whether for university admissions or future job opportunities.
I learned how to present myself in a way that builds a strong first impression, how to structure responses, as well as the little things that shouldn’t be taken for granted, such as bringing a printed copy of my CV to interviews, taking notes with pen and paper, conducting background research on the specific university or firm I’m interviewing with, how to dress properly, and what questions to ask - all of which will be extremely beneficial for me for years to come. I feel like I have a head start! I’m really looking forward to putting my learning into practice during the mock interview sessions with external professionals that the school offers to any student who is interested, at no additional cost.
I would also like to highlight the fantastic work of Sheila, our university counselor. She is always available for all students to offer guidance and answer any questions. Having an expert who is ready to provide support at any time is extremely reassuring for me, as I am still undecided about both the career path I want to pursue and where I would like to study.
When we come back from our summer holidays, I’ll be working individually with my English teacher to craft a compelling personal statement that can showcase my strengths and ambitions to universities and begin the application process.
Overall, I can say my confidence is through the roof thanks to the incredible support network surrounding me here. From our teachers’ support and visiting professionals to Sheila’s ongoing guidance, I feel I am not only being prepared for successful university applications but also for all the professional opportunities that lie ahead. Having access to support that is individually tailored to my situation, rather than general advice, is very valuable, and I am very grateful to have that here at Hamelin-Laie. Other students and I are getting fantastic value from these opportunities provided by the school.
— By Matvii S., International Baccalaureate student at Hamelin-Laie
At Hamelin-Laie, university preparation is personalised, practical, and supportive. From individual counselling and personal statement guidance to interview preparation and future pathway planning, students are helped to understand their options and move forward with confidence. Whether they choose the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or the Spanish National Baccalaureate, our experienced team provides tailored guidance to help every student achieve their academic and university ambitions.
Ready to learn more about our Baccalaureate pathways and university guidance programme? Book a visit or speak to our Admissions team today.
