Questions:
What AP/IB courses are offered at your school?
(ICS – Jennifer Lembright): “We offer 23 AP classes — and at least 70% of our ICS students will take at least one AP class during high school.”
(BPS – Andrew Haughton): Every student taking the full IB diploma has to take 3 higher level subjects and 3 standard level subjects which are selected from the six groups of subjects. Each subject is scored from 1 to 7 and up to 3 additional points may be acquired from TOK and the EE, totalling to 45 points altogether. In addition, students must take part in CAS but this doesn’t add to the points they are able to attain.
There are six groups of subjects
Group 1: Language & literature
Group 2: Language acquisition
Group 3: Individuals & societies
Group 4: Experimental sciences
Group 5: Mathematics
Group 6: The arts
(RIS – Deneene Ricketts): There’s a lot! The best place to go to to see courses on offer is the RIS Program of Studies, which is updated annually to show the courses offered each year. RIS offers around 21 IB courses and around 16 AP courses.
What are the advantages of taking AP/IB courses? What are the disadvantages?
(ICS – Jennifer Lembright): “There are a couple advantages of an AP curriculum; 1) Because we are an American accredited high school, many of our students will aim for college in the US. AP courses allow you to earn college credit alongside your high school diploma and also prepares you well by testing you on college-level knowledge. In addition, the AP program is administered by the College Board, which also administers the SAT exam. I feel that our AP curriculum also prepares our students quite well for the SAT format and content.”
(BPS – Andrew Haughton):
Advantages
Firstly, it is a highly, if not, the most rigorous curriculum which makes it greatly noticeable/recognized by universities all over the world. Along with that, there is both breadth and depth from the wide range of subjects students in the full diploma are required to take. This generates useful skills in the future such as in global engagement, ethics, commitment, collaboration, etc. In the higher level subjects, students are able to focus on what they’re most strong at whilst developing knowledge in the standard level subjects simultaneously.
Disadvantages
On the other hand, as it’s a rigorous program, it brings in its difficulties as well. There is very little free time outside of classes from homework and IAs for each of the subjects.
(RIS – Deneene Ricketts): I think AP courses are flexible as they are one year in length. Students who are interested in majors with different prerequisites will benefit from the flexibility AP courses provide as they can take as many or as little courses as they want. However, AP courses are very fast paced and rigorous as they are only one year in length. The IB is a holistic program that focuses on depth rather than breadth, so students can get a really deep look at the subjects they are interested in. IB provides a high level of preparation for university. However, IB is more restrictive as the courses are two years in length and require an external exam at the end of those two years. Both IB and AP are internationally recognized, and are accepted by universities.
How should students decide between doing IB HL/SL, IB Diploma, IB Certificate, or AP?
(ICS – Jennifer Lembright): “I think students need to ‘begin with the end’ in mind — more simply put, they should try to narrow down where they might want to study for university (country and program) and then make a HS curriculum decision accordingly. Our AP curriculum is such a wonderful fit for those interested in studying in the US.”
(BPS – Andrew Haughton):
Students should check entry requirements for universities of interest as different places require different things such as some institutions with direct entry may not accept the student straight into their 1st year if they hadn’t done the full diploma. Therefore, the IB is not for everyone and different systems could be more suitable for their own future pathway. It could also be a decision revolving around the subjects they are able to choose or are required to take that influences their choice on which system they decide to go with.
(RIS – Deneene Ricketts): First, students need to reflect on their academic strengths currently, and reflect on what they want to study in the future (general idea of what and where to study is okay). Look into what each university requires. The intersection of those two things will help students find out which path they should take.
How should students decide if they should take the SAT, ACT, IELT, TOEFL, BMAT, or other external standardized tests?
(ICS – Jennifer Lembright): “The answer to this will ultimately depend on the university. Since the Covid pandemic, so many universities are going “test-optional” or “test-flexible” (which means SAT or ACT score not required for admission); however, because our ICS students tend to do quite well on the SAT exam, we encourage all students to take the exam and then decide whether or not to submit the scores. There is no preference among US institutions on the ACT or SAT exam — so both are widely accepted. As for English proficiency exams, many times our students are waived from this requirement because we are an American accredited school with English instruction. Sometimes, even the SAT can be used as English proficiency. The most important thing is to check with your individual universities on specific testing requirements.”
(BPS – Andrew Haughton): Overall, for the english external standardized tests, it would mostly depend on a student’s background so they should take a look at what documents they have i.e. their passport, as a non-english passport could possibly require them to sit an english proficiency test. In addition, they should look at the entry requirements of particular universities they’re looking at as they may want specific things. For instance, it would be unlikely for an Patana IB student to have to take an english proficiency test as they’ve been learning through an english-taught education system for however many years, but waver letters could be given for those who aren’t as familiar with the language as well
In terms of SAT and ACT, as things are changing especially with covid-19, it could depend on the situation and the university as many schools around the world actually no longer require those tests such as the UCs.
(RIS – Deneene Ricketts): Again, it depends on what and where you’re applying. COVID has played a big role in the shift in the importance of standardized tests, especially the SATs and the ACTs in the US.
If students were to apply for a specific major, such as engineering or medicine, what subjects would you recommend they take? How about for students who do not know yet what major they want to pursue?
(ICS – Jennifer Lembright): “Again, this depends on which country you are applying to. Some systems allow a more exploratory approach (US, Canada) while others offer only specialized tracks (UK, Asia). As for specific courses to take, I would encourage students to look up the specific program at a potential university and see what HS classes might best prepare them for that particular program. There also might be specific AP classes and SAT subject tests that are required for certain programs. It is very important to research these before your Senior year.”
(BPS – Andrew Haughton): Certain majors or degrees will require specific subjects at specific levels. Students have to identify what subject areas are involved in specific careers which could also depend on the country. For example, engineering would involve maths so HL maths would be expected, physics, and/or chemistry(depending on the country and type of engineering) could also be seen as desirable. Overall, for both people who have an idea of what they would like to do or even those that are still unsure, you should choose the subjects that you enjoy as that leads to better grades and focus. Choosing one you don’t particularly enjoy could lead to more hours of tutoring at the detriment of your other subjects.
(RIS – Deneene Ricketts): Again, it is important to review requirements for different universities. But for engineering and medicine specifically, take at least two out of the three science courses. Students can look at the Common Course Entry Requirements Matrix, which shows a starting point and allows students to see what courses they should take depending on if they are in IB or AP, and the location of the university they are looking to apply to. There is no blanket answer, because it will vary depending on the school, country, and program. So, research and staying organized is extremely important. Students who don’t know what to pursue should take courses that they like and enjoy, and the grades will come with the courses they enjoy. Once again, do your research: participate in virtual events, attend university fairs, talk to your guidance counselor, basically expose yourself to what’s out there.
What is the difference between applying for colleges in the US, UK, and Thailand in terms of preparation? How about for specific majors such as art or music that require portfolios?
(ICS – Jennifer Lembright): “I think the biggest difference among these three systems is the level of holistic review within the admissions process. Holistic review involves evaluating the entire student (academics PLUS activities, experiences, attributes), rather than basing admission solely on academic performance (GPA and SAT). Thailand and the UK put a higher weight on academic metrics; while the US takes a much more holistic approach. Another example would be that teacher recommendation letters and essays have a larger role in US admissions, while they are secondary (and even non-existent) within the UK and Thailand process. As for art and music portfolios, we have found that many conservatories and institutes will offer virtual portfolio workshops and even portfolio support for interested applicants. This is such a great and free resource to get professional help from those who may eventually be reading your application.”
(BPS – Andrew Haughton):
Generally, universities will want something similar in the sense that you will have to fill out an application form within which you’ll include your personal details and the major you’re applying to, as well as a transcript.
Some will require a piece of writing such as a letter of motivation or personal statement which will usually be about why you want to study the course. What gets you excited about it? How have you explored that course further to show your passion/interest?
US
North American universities would want the whole transcript from year 10 onwards and a general essay in which most students will apply through the common app. Coalition application systems would have a general essay which would go to all your universities, and on top of that, answer specific questions.
Portfolios
For art, you would develop a portfolio to show artwork and mediums you enjoy that shows your development and thought process. It depends on the institution but this would either be sent along with the application itself which is done in term 1 of year 13 or after you’ve applied
(RIS – Deneene Ricketts): Generally speaking, the US reviews applicants on a holistic basis, and does not look at just academics. They look at what you say about yourself, and who you are as a learner, and outside the classroom. The UK is looking for people who know what they want to study, and that they have prepared to enter the course that they want. Thailand would want to see that you are academically prepared through transcripts and standardized tests. The difference comes in the nuances of the applications, so again talk to your counselor, and do research.
Art and music majors will also look at your transcript in addition to the portfolio. Students should try to engage and expose themselves to different activities outside of the classroom to hone their craft and build their portfolio, because it is a really important part of the application.
Extracurriculars are an important component of college admissions. As a counselor, what is your role in helping students engage in extracurriculars they are interested in?
(ICS – Jennifer Lembright): “I would say that having a depth to your activities list (4-year commitment, holding a leadership role, creativing/leading an event) is more important than breadth. I also encourage our students to develop an applicant profile — a memorable ‘theme’ within their application that is clearly displayed through each application element. We sometimes even give the applicant a ‘nickname’ that an admissions counselor might give your application — compassionate scientist, multi-cultural entrepreneur, musical engineer — to make sure your activities, your essay, your rec letters and your transcript all point to a compelling theme and helps an admissions offer clearly see how you would contribute on their campus.”
(BPS – Andrew Haughton): Certain things you can’t learn in the classroom should be gained from more experiences, be it on the sports field or a cooking class, whatever you’re interested in. Do the things you already love but I recommend trying out new things as well. You never know, you may enjoy it. Everything you do is a gift for later and at the time.
(RIS – Deneene Ricketts): I would actually clarify that and say that extracurriculars are important for SOME university applications, such as in the US, in Thailand, and some in Europe. There are some universities that do not take extracurriculars into account. However, extracurriculars build communication, teamwork, and social skills, which is very beneficial to succeeding in life. My role is to just listen and get to know you as a student and recommend ways that you can take your skills and apply them, to help you look outside the box and challenge you to do things that will not just benefit you, but benefit your community as well.
Can you walk us through what the admissions process looks like for a rising senior at your school, and how you support your students as they apply?
(ICS – Jennifer Lembright): “We work very hard to establish a college-going culture throughout high school at ICS with school-wide events like College Week and College Night. Before Covid-19, we were also hosting over 150 university visits from various countries on our ICS campus each year. In addition to university fairs and special events, we begin working closely with our Grade 11/Juniors in the spring semester to help them develop their College List — through one-on-one advising sessions and through College Club, which meets monthly over HS lunch and goes over topics regarding the College Search and Application Process. At the start of Grade 12/Seniors, we meet to finalize their college list and walk through the process for requesting transcripts, recommendation letters and other required college application documents. We also provide college essay support through workshops and weekly writing windows, which provide after-school help for students with application and essay questions.”
(BPS – Andrew Haughton): The process starts here in Patana quite early on, we’ve got a tutorial programme which starts in year 7 to get students exploring jobs and up into year 11 also doing psychometric tests in cialfo. It’s a starting point that gives you some initial insight into what you could be good at and enjoy. Then we have allocated link counselors for students starting in year 11 as an opportunity to get to know each other; find out about your aspirations, skills, and interests. Following that, year 12 students in term 2 will have a tutorial programme learning about how to apply, research and write. Later on there will be a sit down altogether with the student’s parents too as their input is also valuable.
The two biggest platforms we use here in BPS for in applications are commonapp and UCAS which open in June. During summer, we recommend visiting universities and those locations of interest. When students come back in year 13, it’s making sure they have a shortlist of universities and applying where we support them along the way.
(RIS – Deneene Ricketts): The admissions process starts during the first semester of grade 11. Universities will visit RIS and juniors will be exposed to different universities and have the opportunity to ask questions and find their best fit. Then, we start to dive into the admissions process, and explore differences between the requirements from universities in different countries. Break down the admissions process for different countries, and have one-on-one meetings with students to get to know their plan and goals. Students are the drivers of the car, and counselors sit in the passenger seat to help them get there.
How do students decide which college is the best fit for them?
(ICS – Jennifer Lembright): “I always like to discuss the 4 P’s of a college match: Price (can you afford it for 4 years?), Program (does it have the specific path you would like to study and can you handle it academically?), Place (do you like the location and do you have support there?), and People (what is the campus community/culture like and what have you learned from alumni?).”
(BPS – Andrew Haughton): Research research research! Reading and finding out more about a course or type of curriculum that’s going to suit you and what you’re interested in. If you have no idea what you want to do, then a liberal arts approach where you get to explore lots of core subjects and other things beyond that at first could be suitable.
(RIS – Deneene Ricketts): You have to know your values and priorities first. By that I mean what is important for you, what is important for you to thrive and succeed at university, and decide what you need from your university. Also, this conversation should include parents, to see what goals the parents have for their students. Best case scenario, students and parents are on the same page, but if not, then counselors will help them find middle ground and get them on the same page. Best fit school: meets geographic needs, social needs, emotional needs, financial needs, as well as academic needs + aligns with your values.
What do colleges look for in a student? What essential tips do you have on building a strong portfolio and standing out?
(ICS – Jennifer Lembright): “Honestly, I think the GPA provides the core to any college application — it’s a 4-year snapshot of the effort and rigor put forth during high school (versus the SAT – which is a 3 hour high stakes test snapshot). I heard a Dartmouth admissions counselor once say that their admissions committee looks at two things: 1. “We make sure the applicant can handle the academics of our university and program” and then 2.”We ask ourselves, would we like this applicant as a roommate?” So I think that the GPA and SAT provide the bones of the application, while the activities, essays and recommendation letters provide the flesh and bones:)”
(BPS – Andrew Haughton): Make sure you have demonstrated interest through reaching out to the university such as to professors or current students, which should start earlier especially for more selective universities. In addition, make sure you know what the supplemental essay questions are or what you need to do to apply to that university. Knowing and showing an awareness about their environment, clubs, internships they offer is also important. Seeing if you fit the profile of the sort of person who would thrive there and what you would add to the community is key.
In terms of building a strong profile, work hard in school. Find out what it is you really enjoy and explore that further. Another thing is, your parents are very important in the whole process, have an open and honest conversation about what you would like to do, the locations you’re interested in, and discuss your financial situation.
(RIS – Deneene Ricketts): What they look at depends on the university and the admissions process. Because again, not all schools require an essay, or extracurriculars, so what colleges want will vary. Essential tips: starting early. The earlier you start, the more time you have to figure out what you want and to understand what options are out there. Once that’s done, you can make a plan in place to make yourself stand out. If you don’t do your research and know your school, how can you stand out? Challenge yourself, and be honest with yourself. Know yourself, and know what’s out there.
Interviewed by:
— Writer Jia Lee can be reached at jial26@rism.ac.th.
— Writer Matthanat Mahachaipongkul (Muke) can be reached at matthanat.m@gmail.com.
— Writer Thanakorn Vajirakachorn (Gunn) can be reached at [thanakornv25@rism.ac.th].
Follow him on Instagram [not_gunn].
Compiled by:
— Writers Jia Lee and Thanakorn Vajirakachorn (Gunn)
