2026 East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Oceania Regional Institute Downloads
2026 East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Oceania Regional Institute Attendee List
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Session 1
9:00 - 10:00 AM
AN INTERACTIVE PANEL: VOICES, ADVOCACY AND ACTION
Hosted by the Regional Council, this session brings our community together to examine the shifting realities of international education and their impact on our work. Through panel insights and peer dialogue, we will explore how to navigate policy challenges and leverage our collective strengths to support one another. Join us as we turn individual regional experiences into a strategic network that ensures our voices are heard.
- Danika Pierce, St. Joseph's Institution International School Singapore
- Andrew Palmer, Seoul Foreign School
Session 2
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
A THIRD PERSON IN THE PROCESS: UNDERSTANDING IECS AND AGENTS
Do you have students who work with Independent Educational Consultants (IECs) or agents — or does your institution partner with them? If so, you may have questions about ethics, transparency, and communication. This session will explore the key differences between IECs and agents, including fee structures, commission-based models, and cross-border variations in practice. We will discuss how school-based counselors and university admissions representatives can navigate these relationships, establish shared expectations, and maintain clear ethical boundaries. Topics will include strategies for collaborating effectively with IECs, understanding where responsibilities should and should not overlap, identifying red flags for unethical practices, and ensuring student-centered guidance within multi-adult advising systems. Participants will leave with a framework for evaluating consultant involvement, strengthening communication channels, and supporting ethical, transparent advising ecosystems across diverse international contexts.
- Tina Forbush, College Plus Educational Consulting
- Vivian Rodrigues, One World International School
USING AI TOOLS TO CUT ADMIN TIME AND INCREASE STUDENT CONNECTION
Disclaimer: Attendees will need a device for workshop – either a laptop, tablet, or smart phone. This workshop shows you how AI tools can reduce the time you spend on routine admissions work so you can focus on people, not paperwork. The focus stays on everyday tasks that slow admissions teams down. You’ll start with a short demo that shows how AI tools handle planning, drafting, organizing, and prioritizing. You’ll then work in small groups to practice using AI tools on real admissions scenarios. Each group will complete a hands-on task and share results with the room. This workshop is not technical. You do not need prior AI experience. You will learn how to write clear prompts, refine outputs, and keep human judgment in control. You’ll also talk about limits, risks, and when AI tools should not be used. By the end, you will leave with ready-to-use prompts, examples you can adapt, and a clearer sense of where AI tools fit into your daily workflow. The goal is simple: less admin time, better focus, and more space for meaningful student interaction.
- Sami Smith, High Point University
- Bobby Branigan, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
AFFORDABLE OPTIONS - HONG KONG, JAPAN AND THAILAND
Curious to learn about affordable options in the region - then this session may be for you! With a focus on Hong Kong, Japan, and Thailand, join us for an information session that will not only talk about costs and funding opportunities, but offer further insights into each country, the cultural diversity, range of English-taught programmes and working opportunities. With a combined panel of Admissions Officers and HE Counsellor, we look to bring you an informative session packed with resources and helpful take-aways!
- Kelia Ho, Hong Kong Baptist University
- Rachel Duce, Brighton College Vietnam
- Stephen Smith, Mahidol University, Faculty of Information & Communication Technology
Session 3
11:40 AM - 12:40 PM
ADVISING STUDENTS IN HEALTH SCIENCES: CAREER PATHWAYS BEYOND MEDICINE
Let's be honest - studying medicine or dental medicine in the U.S. is not easy. And maybe not all students are fit to be a physician; this just might be the only career option they know in a healthcare setting. In this session, Ivy (University of Pittsburgh), Susan (University of Minnesota) and Michelle (Western Academy of Beijing) are going to delve into multiple academic and career options beyond medicine in the field of health sciences in the U.S. This session aims to provide resources and insights to help attendees in advising students and families who are interested in pursuing a career in health sciences, but unsure of all the potential opportunities.
- Ivy Chou, University of Pittsburgh
- Susan Mertz, University of Minnesota
- Michelle Chow-Liu, Western Academy of Beijing
BEST PRACTICES FOR SMALL GROUP TRAVEL
This session provides a practical look at planning effective small-group recruitment travel. Drawing on years of experience organizing small groups, it highlights strategies that make travel productive, efficient, and meaningful for counselors, students, and colleagues. Participants will learn how to schedule school visits thoughtfully, balance ambitious plans with realistic timing, and navigate the unexpected while maintaining clear communication with group participants and counseling colleagues. Attendees will leave with a set of field-tested best practices for maximizing engagement and making the most of every hour on the road.
- Kindel Hollis, Trinity University
- Brian Bailey, University of Waterloo
- Tie Sun, Rhodes College
FUTURE-PROOFING OUR STUDENTS: NAVIGATING CAREER FLUIDITY AND THE EVOLVING HIGHER EDUCATION LANDSCAPE
The rapid advancement of AI and automation is reshaping the future of work — and challenging the frameworks we've long used in college counseling. This interactive session equips counselors with practical strategies to guide students toward resilient, meaningful pathways in an era of genuine uncertainty. Drawing on OECD skills analysis and insights from thought leaders including Doug Lederman, Tom Brunskill, Michael T. Nietzel, and Jeff Selingo, we'll examine how AI, automation, and the gig economy are transforming job roles and what that means for how we advise students. We'll explore future-proof skills — complex problem-solving, critical thinking, adaptability, and emotional intelligence — and reframe university selection around return on learning and institutional agility rather than rankings alone. Through facilitated table talk, participants will share counseling frameworks for helping students embrace ambiguity, build growth mindsets, and channel career anxiety into productive exploration. Together, we'll develop approaches that prepare students not just for a first job, but for lifelong career transitions. Key Takeaway: Students and families need tools to look beyond prestige and short-term outcomes — toward skills, experience, and meaningful ROI.
- Michelle Barini, Concordia International School Hanoi
- Rebecca Lucas-Timpany, Victoria Shanghai Academy
Session 4
3:10 - 4:10 PM
SOUTHERN HORIZONS: EXPLORING HIGHER EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES IN AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND
Join us on a journey “down under” to discover what makes Australia and New Zealand exceptional destinations for international students. This session provides a comprehensive overview of both countries’ higher education systems, including university programs, pathways in medicine, dentistry, and veterinary science, post-study work opportunities, and student visa options. Participants will also learn about the welcoming, safe, and supportive environments that make these countries ideal for international study. By the end of the session, attendees will: Understand the key features of the Australian and New Zealand higher education systems. Be familiar with application timelines, entry requirements, and post-study work pathways. Gain practical advising strategies to help students identify the right academic and lifestyle fit. Be equipped to confidently promote Australia and New Zealand as high-quality study destinations for international students.
- Christina Chandler, Chandler Educational Consulting
- Angela Puskic, Deakin University
- Amy Rutherford, Victoria University of Wellington
THE ANALYTICAL ALLY: BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN DATA AND COUNSELING
Does your counseling team struggle with the way students and parents curate their US college lists and application strategies? Do you feel your expertise is often overlooked? The most effective way to pivot the conversation and regain influence is to move beyond anecdotes and show them the data. This session begins with a deep dive into macro US admissions trends and why they are essential for families to understand in the current landscape. Following this overview, the Director of University Counseling at International School Bangkok will present a case study on identifying critical gaps in a school’s application trends. You will see the specific data models and programming ISB implemented to address these issues, with a focus on leveraging data to encourage better-informed decisions and a more diverse range of college choices. Attendees will see exactly how to present internal and external data to parents in a way that shifts perspectives. If your school struggles with application clusters at a small group of highly selective institutions, this session offers practical, data-backed methods to change your school’s culture and broaden student horizons.
- Curt Nichols, International School Bangkok
- Jeremy Craig, Testtakers Singapore
PROMOTE, PIVOT, OR MOVE ON? NAVIGATING CHANGE IN INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION CAREERS
Professionals in international education often reach a point where they ask: What’s next? This interactive panel explores how early and mid-career professionals can navigate career growth, pursue advancement, and thoughtfully evaluate potential job changes. Drawing on their experiences across different roles and career stages within international education, panelists will share candid insights on advocating for a promotion, building visibility with leadership, factors to consider when making a career pivot, and recognizing when it may be time to move on. Through facilitated discussion and audience engagement, attendees will gain practical strategies and real-world perspectives to support intentional career decision-making.
- Helen Cheung, Singapore International School (Hong Kong)
- John Gursky, Taipei American School
- Megan Mankerian-Stem, Global Leaders Collective
- Ronni Marinez, Loyola Marymount University
- Anna Wise, Hamilton College
Session 5
4:15 - 5:15 PM
This session will explore the new UCAS Personal Statement structure and reflect on what we have learned from the roll-out of the new question-based format, specifically looking at what’s working well, what’s proving challenging, and how we can optimize our guidance moving forward. Participants will gain clarity on how students responded to these new prompts and how universities interpreted the new format in this first cycle. We will also explore practical, time efficient writing strategies for helping students produce strong and authentic writing even during the demands of a busy senior year.
- Erin Hawken, International School of Kuala Lumpur
- Laura Houston, University of St Andrews
- Sorcha Breslin, Royal Holloway, University of London
- Annemiek Bailey, International School of Kuala Lumpur
EMPOWERING STUDENTS FOR GLOBAL LEARNING: TRANSITIONING FROM HIGH SCHOOL TO UNIVERSITY
Join us for a vital discussion on equipping students for the challenges and opportunities of university. As the world rapidly evolves, students often begin their college planning journey with heightened anxiety and a reduced sense of independence, profoundly impacting their transition to university. This session will explore the trends influencing today's high school graduates, from the impact of global uncertainties to the need for stronger self-reliance and cross-cultural communication skills. Collectively, we will discuss practical strategies together that high schools and universities can implement to foster confidence, ease parental concerns, and cultivate resilient, globally-minded learners ready to thrive in their university journey and beyond.
- Junita Sockalingam, ACS International School Singapore
- Carman Wong, HKUST Business School
COLLABORATING TO RECRUIT EFFECTIVELY IN VIETNAM AND SOUTHEAST ASIA
Looking at the local vs international recruitment landscape in Vietnam from both sides of the desk. We will emphasise the cultural context in Vietnam and where it sits within the Southeast Asia region for recruitment. In a wider context we want to share some best practice around school visits in Southeast Asia.
- Joe McKinney, British International School, Hanoi
- Thuy Nguyen, York University
- Chau Mai, Grok Global Services
Session 6
9:00 - 10:00 AM
AI has quickly become a prominent topic in counselling, yet many practitioners find it challenging to determine how AI can be used meaningfully and ethically in daily practice. This workshop aims to create an inclusive, collegial space for counsellors at all stages of AI exploration, from curious beginners to those already experimenting with advanced tools, to share what works for us and explore what works for you. Drawing on real examples from school and college counselling contexts, we will share the platforms we use, the toolkits we’ve developed, and lessons we’ve learned along the way. The focus is on practical, low-barrier applications that enhance efficiency and creativity without replacing the essential human role of the counsellor. Participants are encouraged to share resources they have developed using AI, thus helping to build a shared toolkit of effective, ethical AI practices.
- Allan Birimac, British School Manila
- Rorie MacDonald, Dulwich College Shanghai Pudong
- Elizabeth Watson, Seoul Foreign School
BEYOND THE HEADLINES: WHY CANADA REMAINS A TOP DESTINATION FOR HIGHER EDUCATION
Canadian higher education is widely recognized for its academic excellence, robust research opportunities, and strong emphasis on experiential learning, such as co-operative education, a unique feature of Canadian higher education. This interactive session will examine the evolving landscape of Canadian higher education through both the secondary school and university lenses. Participants will hear from a Canadian high school counsellor based in Bangkok, as well as university representatives in recruitment and admissions from Saint Mary's University and University of Guelph, alongside a Regulated International Student Immigration Advisor from Queen's University. Presenters will explore key post-secondary pathways in Canada, highlighting program structures, learning outcomes, and how these experiences prepare students to be career- and future-ready upon graduation. Participants will also gain practical insights into preparing students for admission to Canadian institutions, including understanding institutional differences, admissions requirements, and strategic program selection. In addition, the session will provide timely guidance on the Canadian study permit process and recent immigration updates relevant to internationally mobile students. Participants will conclude the session well-informed and equipped with resources to confidently guide students toward successful outcomes in Canadian higher education.
- Jimmi Hemmenbach, University of Guelph
- Deneene Ricketts, Ruamrudee International School
- Lauren Cullen, Saint Mary's University
- Carolina Palmer, Queen's University
READING THE REGION: A UNIVERSITY GUIDE TO SOUTHEAST ASIAN TRANSCRIPTS
Designed for university representatives, this session explores how two U.S. universities evaluate secondary academic records from Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore. Presenters will highlight differences in local and international curricula, grading scales, and national examinations, and share how their admissions teams assess rigor and context. The session will also cover tools and practices that support consistent and equitable transcript review, with time for discussion and shared insights.
- Stacy Soderstrom, Luther College
- Amanda Hager, University of St. Thomas
Session 7
10:10 AM - 11:10 AM
AMERICAN-STYLE UNIVERSITY OPTIONS OUTSIDE OF THE US
Did you know you can also study at American-style colleges outside of the US? There are branches of American universities in the Middle East and Asia, and Euoprean as well as American-style liberal arts and sciences colleges in Europe. This session will give an overview of how they are similar to options in the US and how they are different. From curriculum to admissions, from finances to culture, you will leave with a better understanding of what student will thrive where.
- Ango Paul Mwakisu, NYU Abu Dhabi
- Nidal Nassar, Northwestern University in Qatar
- Ha Nguyen, Temple University, Japan Campus
- Kim Zwitserloot, University College Utrecht
TALKING NUMBERS: PRACTISING DATA CONVERSATIONS THAT MATTER
We all work with student data (academic results, course selections or application trends), but rarely take the time to analyse it critically. This interactive session invites participants to practice structured data conversations using the “Data Driven Dialogue” model to analyse student mobility from countries within InternationalACAC Region 1 to Higher Education. Step back, reflect, explore patterns, spot trends, and discuss what the data reveals. Be prepared for small-group discussions and expect to leave with a greater understanding and comfort level in discussing data. The conversation, topic and data are relevant for all roles across the organisation, regardless of location.
- Danika Pierce, St. Joseph's Institution International School Singapore
The UK’s creative legacy has influenced global culture for centuries. For internationally minded students, it remains one of the most inspiring destinations to develop artistic talent and creative ambition. In this thought-provoking breakout session, three university experts from the Creative Arts will explore what defines UK excellence today — from rigorous studio practice and critical theory to industry collaboration and global showcase opportunities. You’ll gain insight into portfolio expectations, audition processes, and how admissions teams assess creative potential alongside academic achievement. Drawing on sector expertise and authentic student experience, this session will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to guide aspiring artists, performers, designers and writers towards programmes that will challenge, refine and elevate their craft. If you advise students considering a creative degree in the UK, this session offers a deeper understanding of how they can thrive within one of the world’s most influential creative landscapes.
- Jenny Oxley, Leeds Arts University
- Ryan Duncan, The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA)
- Chris Andersson, Nothing But Drama LLC
Closing Session
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
MAXIMISING YOUR MEMBERSHIP, REGIONAL COUNCIL, CLOSING
- Wilson Lee, Singapore American School
- Danika Pierce, St. Joseph's Institution International School Singapore
- Megan Mankerian-Stem, Global Leaders Collective
- Andrew Palmer, Seoul Foreign School
- San Lee, University of California, Davis
- Tannaz Daver, TZD Advisory
Counselor Sessions
2:45 PM - 3:45 PM
PD FOR PARENTS: ENGAGING FAMILIES IN HIGH SCHOOL AND THE COLLEGE SEARCH
This workshop explores practical strategies for building parent engagement programs that reduce anxiety and foster productive family conversations throughout high school - particularly with the college search and admissions process. Drawing on feedback from counselors about the challenges of working with families, we'll examine how to translate admissions complexity into clear, accessible content for parent audiences while strengthening effective school-family partnerships. Participants will leave with a toolkit of ready-to-use materials including sample parent workshop agendas and curriculum, and book club guides to adapt and implement at their own schools immediately.
- Ben O'Brien, Shanghai American School - Pudong Campus
- Amanda Yu, Concordia International School Shanghai
FROM CHAOS TO CLARITY: KOREA & JAPAN APPLICATIONS - A SYSTEMATIC DOCUMENTATION GUIDE FOR COUNSELLORS
This session explores streamlined documentation workflows for Japan and Korea undergraduate admissions, covering transcript standards, verification protocols, and risk‑free submission management.
- Rachel Ahreum Hahn, British International School, Hanoi