Secondary school package
Case studies
Case study 1
Preparing for Canadian Universities
Student Profile:
Emma, a Grade 10 student in Toronto, aims to study Engineering at top Canadian universities such as the University of Toronto or the University of Waterloo.
Counselling Approach:
Starting early, we worked with Emma to develop a strong academic plan focused on mathematics, physics, and chemistry—key prerequisites for engineering programs. We helped her get involved in relevant extracurriculars like robotics club and math competitions, and encouraged her to attend STEM-focused summer programs to deepen her experience. To stand out in competitive engineering admissions, we also supported Emma in developing leadership roles, such as mentoring younger students in coding workshops and taking initiative in group projects. In parallel, we introduced her to the AIF (Admission Information Form) requirements used by schools like Waterloo, and helped her build a profile that showcases both technical skill and personal initiative.
Outcome:
By Grade 11, Emma had developed a well-balanced academic and extracurricular portfolio, was aware of faculty-specific application components, and was fully prepared to begin the university application process with confidence.
Student Profile:
Liam, a Grade 9 student from Ottawa, dreams of studying Computer Science at a selective U.S. university such as Carnegie Mellon University or Stanford.
Counselling Approach:
Recognizing the competitive nature of U.S. admissions, we helped Liam design a challenging academic schedule including AP and honors courses where available. We introduced him to extracurricular opportunities aligned with his interests, such as coding clubs, hackathons, and internships with local tech startups. Early SAT test planning was part of his preparation, including test date selection and study resources. We also started early guidance on essay writing and extracurricular leadership development. Additionally, we advised Liam on building a strong application narrative that highlights his passion for technology and innovation.
Outcome:
Liam developed a competitive academic and extracurricular profile with strong test readiness, positioning him well for the holistic admissions process at U.S. universities.
Case study 2
Preparing for U.S. Universities
Case study 3
Preparing for Canada and the U.S. universities
Student Profile:
Jason, a Grade 11 student in Mississauga, was interested in pursuing a business degree and aimed to apply to competitive programs in both Canada (such as Western’s Ivey AEO and UBC Sauder) and the United States (including NYU Stern and UM Ann Arbor Ross).
Counselling Approach:
To support Jason’s dual application path, we helped him develop a strategy that addressed the distinct requirements of both Canadian and U.S. university systems. Academically, we advised him on selecting advanced courses in math and economics, and encouraged him to take AP Calculus and AP Microeconomics to strengthen his transcript. We worked closely with Jason to build a standout extracurricular profile. He launched a small online retail venture, competed in the UPenn Wharton Investment Competition, and actively participated in Model United Nations (MUN) debate, where he refined his public speaking, negotiation, and leadership skills. As president of his school’s investment club and a DECA finalist, he demonstrated both initiative and business acumen.
For Canadian applications, we focused on developing strong supplemental responses for Western’s Ivey AEO application and UBC’s Personal Profile. For U.S. schools, we provided strategic guidance on the Common App, supported Jason through multiple rounds of essay revision, tailored supplemental essays for each school, and helped him present a cohesive narrative across activities and recommendations. We also supported SAT preparation and created a personalized timeline to manage both early action and regular deadlines effectively.
Outcome:
By the fall of Grade 12, Jason had a compelling and competitive application portfolio customized for both Canadian and U.S. business schools. He received multiple offers from top institutions across both countries, ultimately choosing the one that best aligned with his academic and professional goals.
Student Profile:
Sophie, a Grade 11 student from Montreal, aspires to pursue a Fine Art degree—specializing in Photography—at a UK university such as University of the Arts London or Goldsmiths, University of London.
Counselling Approach:
Recognizing the portfolio-based admissions process for creative programs in the UK, we worked with Sophie to curate and develop a high-quality, conceptually driven body of work that reflected both technical skill and creative exploration. Her portfolio included a combination of digital and film photography, portrait and documentary work, and a series exploring themes of identity and urban isolation. We encouraged her to maintain an annotated sketchbook documenting her creative process, experimentation, and influences. To strengthen her application further, we guided Sophie in participating in local art exhibitions, photography competitions, and community art projects. She also took online courses to expand her visual storytelling skills. We provided detailed feedback on how to present her portfolio digitally, tailored to each university's submission platform and criteria. In addition, we supported her in crafting a compelling personal statement that linked her creative voice with her academic goals.
Outcome:
By the end of Grade 11, Sophie had a professionally presented portfolio, a strong artistic narrative, and a polished personal statement—placing her in an excellent position for admission to competitive UK art programs.
Case study 4