International University Fair 2025

Dulwich International High School Programme Suzhou (DHSZ) was proud to host the Dulwich Suzhou University fair on the 16th of October. As one of the city’s most anticipated education events open to students and families across Suzhou, the fair welcomed a vibrant crowd of visitors eager to explore global university pathways, meet admissions officers face-to-face, and gain first-hand insight into life at world-leading institutions.

This year's fair brought together over one hundred prestigious universities from regions including the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Japan, Hong Kong SAR, Singapore, and Europe. Students and parents not only received the latest updates on admissions requirements, scholarship opportunities, and course offerings, but also deepened their understanding of university life and academic culture through direct, personal conversations.

Adding a special touch to this year's event was Year 13 student Erin, who took on the role of student interviewer and video correspondent. Through her lens and questions, Erin guided the audience through this global education fair, capturing inspiring moments of curiosity, ambition, and growth from university representatives, counsellors, students, and parents alike.

From Information to Inspiration: Bringing Students Closer to the “Real University”

The university fair is more than an information hub, it is a catalyst for critical thinking and self-discovery. Mr. Mark Coyle, Head of University and Careers Counselling at DHSZ, shared during his interview with Erin:

“Many students come here with only a vague idea of certain universities, perhaps something they’ve heard about the University of Hong Kong. But when they meet the admissions officers in person, they hear the real story directly from the people who review their applications. That makes all the difference.”

He added with a smile: “Don't rely on TikTok or RED for your application advice, come here and talk to the real people.”

This kind of face-to-face engagement sits at the heart of the DHSZ university guidance philosophy: helping students understand themselves and the world through authentic dialogue. Before the fair, Mr. Coyle and his team shared the list of participating universities and encouraged students to conduct in-depth research beforehand. “We don't want students to ask, ‘What's the TOEFL requirement?’, that's on the website. Instead, we guide them to think deeper: What kind of students are universities looking for? Which experiences or summer projects will strengthen your application? Those are the questions that matter.”

For DHSZ, the university fair is not a “marketplace of information,” but a living classroom for exploration and inquiry. As Erin reflected: “The fair helped me realise that applying to university isn't just about scores, it's about showing who you are. Every question you ask helps you understand yourself a little better.” At DHSZ, curiosity and reflection are the first steps toward growth.

Family and the School Together: Growing Through Understanding

Learning at DHSZ extends far beyond the classroom. Earlier that day, the school hosted a Parent Academy, an exclusive seminar series thatbrought parents onto campus to learn about global university admissions trends and strategies. The session helped parents not only understand admissions standards but also appreciate a deeper truth about education, that it is a journey of shared growth.

An IG1 parent shared: “It's important for students to discover their academic interests as early as possible. Once they know their preferred major, it becomes easier to choose the right subjects, prepare for exams, and set realistic goals.” A Year 11 parent offered another reflection: “I've realised that U.S. universities value independence and holistic development, while U.K. universities focus more deeply on academics. Through this fair, I learned that every system nurtures a different kind of excellence, but they all aim to educate better people.”

Mr. Coyle also highlighted the importance of meaningful parental involvement: “If parents engage early and listen to the universities, they'll avoid many common mistakes. Some want their children to take every test: SAT, A Level, AP. But universities are looking for balanced, passionate students with curiosity, integrity, and communication skills, not just test-takers.” At DHSZ, we believe that education is a partnership between the home and the school. 

Voices from Global Universities: A Dialogue Across Borders

Another highlight of the fair was the insightful perspectives shared by admissions officers from leading universities worldwide. Their voices carried not only information but also reflections on what education truly means in a changing world.

New York University

“At NYU, the city itself becomes the classroom. Our students bring what they learn in class into the city, and what they learn in the city back into class. They see Broadway shows, intern on Wall Street, attend Yankees games, learning without walls or boundaries.”

Northeastern University

“Our signature Co-op program gives students full-time, paid work experience before graduation. With over 3,000 employer partners worldwide, 93% of our graduates complete at least one Co-op.”

McGill University

“We uphold high academic standards while keeping an open mind. Innovation isn't only in science or technology; it's in the exchange of ideas and cultures. We want students to find inspiration in research and creativity in diversity.”

Durham University

“Each new student is assigned 'college parents', senior students who guide them in both study and life. We want every student at Durham to feel a true sense of belonging.”

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

“We look for students with a 'can-do spirit': those who are curious, resilient, and ready to take initiative. True excellence is built not in comfort, but in challenge.”

Through these conversations, DHSZ students realised that global excellence isn't defined by grades alone, but by independence, creativity, and empathy- values that align deeply with DHSZ's holistic curriculum.

Student Perspectives: Learning Through Observation and Reflection

Beyond the lively conversations and packed exhibition halls, the fair also became a mirror of student growth in action. Through her interviews and observations, Erin captured moments where curiosity met opportunity, and where each dialogue became a step toward self-understanding.

“In my conversations with admissions officers, I heard what they truly value, not just academic ability, but mindset and attitude. I realised that choosing a university isn't only about where you go, but about who you want to become.”

For Erin and many others, the experience went beyond an event. It was a learning journey shaped by inquiry, empathy, and voice. This embodies one of DHSZ's core educational values: empowering students to learn, express, and create through authentic, real-world engagement.

Grow in Dulwich, Thrive in Life

The 2025 International University Fair was more than a campus event, it was an integral part of the DHSZ university guidance journey. At Dulwich, university preparation is not just about applications; it is a process of self-exploration and dialogue with the world.

From the fair to the Parent Academy, from each conversation to each question, our students continue to grow: learning to think independently, express confidently, and listen empathetically. As Mr. Coyle aptly concluded: “When you choose a university, you are really choosing the kind of person you want to become.” DHSZ remains committed to building bridges that connect our students with the world, empowering them to grow with purpose, courage, and compassion.