2025 Europe Regional Institute Downloads
2025 Final Europe Regional Institute Attendee List
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Session 1
10:00 - 10:45 AM
This workshop will explore the tips and tricks for maximising opportunities and success for UK university applications throughout the
whole UCAS process. Whilst the broad logistics of the UK’s central application process may well be commonly known, there are nuances within this that allow for greater flexibility than might commonly be exploited.
From utilising the newly published historical data, playing the game of 'when to add' university choices, or being able to deploy UCAS Extra and Clearing effectively, this session for secondary school counsellors will look at how you can advise your students so that they are positioned to benefit from all the options and stages offered.
- Sarra Jenkins, Loughborough Grammar School
- Rachael Pearson, Oakham School
DECODING THE WORLD'S DIPLOMAS: A CANDID LOOK AT INTERNATIONAL CURRICULA
Looking at the national curricula and how university reps can better understand them. In this session, the curricula we will be reviewing are: French Bac, A Levels, IB, Czech National Curriculum, and the Global Impact Diploma.
- Ryan Hinchey, Jeannine Manuel School - London
- Preeti Samuel Rajendran, Charles University, Faculty of Social Sciences
- Martine Gagnon, UES Education
- Erin Hawken, American International School of Budapest
EXPLORING EUROPE: A PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR COUNSELLORS
Do you have students who want to study abroad but stay closer to home? Students who are not afraid to step out of the box and explore alternative study destinations? Europe offers an enormous variety of higher education opportunities for them.
Join three European universities and an experienced high school counsellor to explore the European continent. Discover the wide range of options at public and private institutions, covering fields beyond business and medicine. Learn how to help your students thrive in non-native English environments and set realistic expectations for their academic and personal journeys.
This session will provide practical advice and insider tips to equip counsellors with the knowledge to guide students toward a successful European study experience.
- Denise Nijhuis, University College Roosevelt
- Ador Kociraj, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
- Dominick Bruso, EAB Global Inc.
- Olgica Gjorgjevska, Nova International Schools
- Péter Árvai, University of Pécs
OFFICES WITHOUT BORDERS: ONE PERSON OFFICES WITH UNLIMITED GLOBAL COLLEAGUES
Do you have students who want to study abroad but stay closer to home? Students who are not afraid to step out of the box and explore alternative study destinations? Europe offers an enormous variety of higher education opportunities for them.
Join three European universities and an experienced high school counsellor to explore the European continent. Discover the wide range of options at public and private institutions, covering fields beyond business and medicine. Learn how to help your students thrive in non-native English environments and set realistic expectations for their academic and personal journeys.
This session will provide practical advice and insider tips to equip counsellors with the knowledge to guide students toward a successful European study experience.
- Phillip Wenturine, Brewster Madrid
- Jennifer Hirsch, Claremont McKenna College
- Matthew Akitani, Copenhagen International School
Session 2
11:00 - 11:45 AM
UNDERSTANDING SPAIN'S UNIVERSITY ACCESS SYSTEM
Many of the attendees are familiar with some Spanish universities and programs, mainly the most well known private ones, but few truly understand how to navigate the public university system and what resources can be used with students to research what is on offer. How to make sense of cut off marks, grade weighting, legalisation of school diplomas and equivalency and conversion of scores. With our combined experience as counselors, IECs,(and parents!) living and working in Spain, we can give you the inside track to all the information you need to properly advise your students and understand the requirements, system and realistic chances for admission.
Attendees will come away with the most systematic approach possible to researching the Spanish university offerings, both public and private, knowledge of resources that can be used to find options, understand how to convert scores and know what is required, learn how to actually apply and find info not typically found on standard Spanish university websites.
- Laura Nohr, Brains International School
- Kara Madden, Madden Educational Consulting
- Christian Shull, Global University Advisors
This presentation will provide an overview of the University of California (UC) system and the unique opportunities it offers for academic, personal, and professional growth across its nine undergraduate campuses. Attendees will also gain insights into the UC application process, including key components such as academic history, extracurricular activities, and personal insight questions. The session will emphasize strategies for presenting a strong and well-rounded application to help students stand out in the competitive admissions process.
In addition, we will provide the advantages for students to start their bachelor degree at a California Community College as a pathway into the 3rd year of the Bachelor at UC.
- Brian Davey, The Colleges of Contra Costa
CAN’T WE JUST ALL WORK TOGETHER? IECS, SCHOOL-BASED COUNSELLORS, AND UNIVERSITY ADMISSIONS OFFICERS
How can school counselors, IECs and university reps work together to support students on their journey to achieve their goals? The panel will address the many issues, that at times, can make it a challenge to have open dialogue to guide students through the university planning process.
- Jack Shull, Global University Advisors
- Heidi Buffington, Saint Louis University - Madrid Campus
- Christine Eischen, Briteguide
- Sonja Bhan, International School Basel
- Péter Árvai, University of Pécs
Session 3
2:15 PM - 3:00 PM
UNICORNS, UNIVERSITIES, AND THE PURSUIT OF KNOWLEDGE: THE SCOTTISH HIGHER EDUCATION EXPERIENCE
Studying in Scotland offers international students a transformative education experience. With a distinctive four-year degree structure, students can explore a wide range of subjects, fostering versatility and critical thinking. Innovative teaching methods, world-leading research, and a vibrant, multicultural environment promote global perspectives. Scotland’s stunning landscapes, rich history and cultural symbols – like our national animal, the unicorn - provide a magical backdrop for a balanced lifestyle alongside enriching academic study and graduate opportunities.
- Michaela Cameron, University of St Andrews
- Elena Connell, University of the Highlands and Islands
- Thomas Marr, University of St Andrews
STRATEGIC ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT BASICS: TOOLS AND TACTICS FOR ADMISSIONS PROFESSIONALS AT ALL LEVELS
This session offers a comprehensive introduction to Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM), tailored for college admissions professionals who may not be familiar with the concept or hold institution-wide enrollment leadership roles. SEM is a holistic process that helps institutions achieve and maintain optimal recruitment, retention, and graduation rates by leveraging data-driven insights and strategic planning.
- Heidi Buffington, Saint Louis University - Madrid Campus
FORGET STUDENTS! COUNSELING PARENTS THROUGH THE UNIVERSITY APPLICATION PROCESS
As much as we focus on our seniors in the university process, if we ignore the parents and guardians in the process, many of our efforts, policies and messaging can end up being ignored. This session focuses on a variety of ways to engage with your parent community, so that your messaging is front and center, and you become the trusted adult for them as well as your seniors. Starting early and messaging often in different ways throughout high school will be the focus of this session.
- Monique Hyppolite, Institut Le Rosey
- Anne Richardson, The American School in London
TRANSFORMING THE COLLEGE APPLICATION PROCESS: EMPOWERING STUDENTS THROUGH SELF-AWARENESS
In this dynamic and empowering session, we will explore how the college application process can be transformed from a source of stress and uncertainty into a transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment for students. Join us as we delve into innovative strategies and approaches for helping students cultivate greater self-awareness, define their values, and identify their unique strengths and interests. Through engaging discussions, interactive activities, and real-life examples, attendees will learn practical techniques for coaching students to make authentic choices and explore a diverse range of opportunities and universities both locally and globally - the aim is to empower students to think beyond just traditional brand names and direct pathways to open the doors of awareness to gap years, 2+2 options, trade programs, and more: all as viable options for future success. Whether you are a counselor or university rep, don't miss this opportunity to empower your students and revolutionize their college application experience as they explore more options globally!
- Christine Eischen, Briteguide
- Phillip Wenturine, Brewster Madrid
- Elena Somoza, IE University
- Dominick Bruso, EAB Global Inc.
Session 4
3:15 - 4:00 PM
Understanding the Canadian higher education system is crucial for any international student looking for a unique university experience. This session will break down the key features that make Canadian universities stand out—such as flexible study options, world-class faculty, and pathways to work opportunities—demonstrating why Canada remains one of the top choices for students seeking high-quality education. We will also discuss some of Canada’s recent immigration policy changes and how they impact the application process to Canadian universities. Beyond admissions, the session will also highlight the robust support services that Canadian universities offer to international students. From cultural integration programs to mental health support, participants will discover how Canadian universities are fostering inclusive, welcoming environments designed to ensure academic success and personal well-being.
- Lauren Cullen, Saint Mary's University
- Meagan Vande Vooren, Huron at Western University
- Shannon Bracken, Ontario Tech University
MAXIMIZING RECRUITMENT IN CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN EUROPE'S EMERGING MARKETS
This session will provide a detailed analysis of recruitment opportunities within the emerging markets of Central and Southern Europe. These regions are witnessing a surge in interest for international education, characterized by highly mobile student populations and well-established advising and counseling programs. Despite these advantages, they remain underrepresented in traditional recruitment efforts. The session will explore student mobility trends, demographic profiles, recent developments in higher education systems, and opportunities for engagement through in-person, hybrid, or virtual formats.
- Olgica Gjorgjevska, Nova International Schools
- Dalma Tímea Szentpály, Milestone Institute
- Elizabeth Chung, EducationUSA Serbia
- Hani Hurtova, EducationUSA Czech Republic
- Anica Vujnovic, EducationUSA Montenegro
UNLOCKING THE PROFESSIONAL POWER OF A US LIBERAL ARTS AND SCIENCES EDUCATION FOR EUROPEAN STUDENTS
Many graduates of US liberal arts and sciences colleges are excelling in competitive, high-paying fields and advancing to leadership positions across various industries. This success is driven not only by academic rigor but also by the interdisciplinary and holistic educational philosophy that distinguishes liberal arts and sciences institutions. In addition to building expertise in their chosen fields, students benefit from exposure to multiple disciplines, a focus on critical thinking, and the development of strong communication skills. These attributes make liberal arts graduates more adaptable, innovative, and better prepared to navigate an evolving global job market.
However, despite these positive professional outcomes, US liberal arts and sciences colleges often face challenges in gaining recognition among prospective students and families in Europe. In this session, we aim to bridge that gap by sharing compelling data on the career trajectories of liberal arts graduates and by engaging in dialogue with European high school counselors and university admission officers about the specific concerns and challenges they face in recommending this type of education.
- Jennifer Hirsch, Claremont McKenna College
- Danielle Kanclerz, Linfield University
- Edi Miletto, Aiglon College
Session 5
9:15 - 9:45 AM
INTERNATIONAL ACAC MAXIMIZE YOUR MEMBERSHIP & ETHICS IN THE INDUSTRY
- Marsha Oshima, International School of Geneva, La Grande Boissiere Campus
- Joyce Agyare, Educational Consultant/Independent Counsellor
Session 6
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Many national curriculum schools in Europe lack structured college counseling, leaving students with limited access to international higher education pathways. Universities eager to diversify their applicant pools struggle to connect with these students, while schools face resource constraints that make career and university guidance a low priority. Independent Educational Consultants (IECs) can help bridge this gap—if they can build trust with schools and demonstrate value.
This session dives into real-world case studies of successful IEC-state school-university collaborations across Europe. We’ll explore practical strategies for building relationships with schools, creating sustainable guidance programs, and developing university partnerships that support organic recruitment while alleviating the burden on overstretched educators.
- Agnes Horvath, Altiora Learning
- Tom Whittaker, The University Guys
- Denise Nijhuis, University College Roosevelt
THE NEW PERSONAL STATEMENT FOR UK APPLICANTS
We’ll discuss the new Personal Statement format coming into effect for 2026, having worked with UCAS on this. We’ll share what our three universities make of the changes and what it means for students and counsellors.
- Sarah Tompkins, Keele University
- Caroline Halling, Royal Holloway, University of London
- Becci Denmark, Cardiff University
BALANCING EXCELLENCE: PLAYING COMPETITIVE SPORTS IN UNIVERSITY
In this session, we will explore the landscape of competitive sports in the USA, Canada, the Netherlands and UK, highlighting how counselors can support students aspiring to play at a high level. From understanding eligibility requirements, admissions process (if applicanble), funding opportunities, and practice and travel expectations, this session will share more about how students can tap into the competitive sports environments at a collegiate level. Join us for a dynamic session designed to help counselors provide the guidance and support students need to pursue their athletic dreams on a global scale.
- Molly Witt, University of Vermont
- Carolyn Barr, Leiden University
- Shannon Bracken, Ontario Tech University
- Hayley Iovannelli, UWE Bristol
THE DODEA US MILITARY-CONNECTED STUDENT: UNIQUE ISSUES IN THE COLLEGE APPLICATION PROCESS
We will cover the demographics of our students; the differences between active and civilian US military-connected students; the unique challenges for each when completing College Applications and the additional support our students may need as they navigate the college application process OCONUS (outside the continental United States). We hope College Admissions Counselors will take away a better understanding of the DoDEA US military-connected student when reviewing these applicants for admission, allowing for a more informed decision. We hope they will further understand how they can best support the DoDEA US military-connected student throughout the process with the unique challenges the student may face. We hope they will understand the DoDEA structure with demographics of our students and begin to build a network across the many DoDEA schools across Europe.
- Janet Sprague, Vilseck High School
Session 7
11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
TIRED OF BRAND FOCUS? HOW TO PULL OFF A SUCCESSFUL NO NAME COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY FAIR
The American School in London was the first school in the UK to host a No Name College/University Fair, and has done so annually since then. Why? It is a way to message to both students and parents, as well as your faculty, about how to focus university research on subject exploration and fit, and, in the process, perhaps discover some hidden gems and institutions that they have never heard of but should explore. This session will share all the secrets so that you, too, can host a successful No Name College/University Fair.
- Molly Witt
- Anne Richardson