Realtalk

Event Summary: Real Talk with University Insiders

On October 11, 2024, the International Education Help Organisation (IEHO) hosted an inspiring online event, “ Real Talk with University Insiders,” featuring speakers from some of the most prestigious universities in North America. This  interactive session provided high school students and their families with invaluable insights into the university application process, academic life, and opportunities for personal growth at top institutions. Held via Zoom, the    event attracted participants eager to learn from firsthand experiences and deepen their understanding of higher    education.

Event Objective

The primary goal of the event was to empower students by connecting them with successful individuals who have navigated their journeys through top universities. By sharing real experiences and actionable advice, the speakers aimed to demystify university life and inspire attendees to strive for academic and personal excellence.

Distinguished Speakers The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers who represented their respective universities and brought unique perspectives:

• Huai Zhong –University of Toronto
• Hengkun Zhang –McGill University
• Junting Zhang – CornellUniversity

• Changwen Chen – StanfordUniversity

Each speaker shared their personal experiences, from preparing applications to transitioning to university life and balancing academics, extracurriculars, and career

aspirations.

Program Highlights

1. Personal Storiesand Advice: Each speaker presented their journey, offering insights into what helped them succeed in securing admission to competitive programs and thriving in a challenging university environment. Topics included time management, networking, and overcoming cultural or academic barriers.

2. InteractiveQ&A: Participants had the opportunity to ask the speakers    questions, ranging from university admissions tips to    managing stress and finding mentorship opportunities. This session allowed for candid discussions, enabling  students to address their individual concerns.

3. Tips for Aspiring Students: Speakers shared actionable advice on crafting compelling university applications, building strong personal statements, and showcasing extracurricular involvement. They emphasized the importance of resilience, curiosity, and adaptability in navigating the academic world.

4. Peer-to-Peer Connections: The event fostered a supportive and motivational atmosphere, encouraging students to see the speakers as relatable role models. This connection reinforced the idea that success is achievable through determination and thoughtful planning.

Audience and Impact The event saw enthusiastic participation from students across various high schools, parents seeking guidance for their children, and educators interested in enhancing their  understanding of university readiness. Feedback from attendees highlighted the value of the event in providing    realistic and relatable advice, with many expressing their   gratitude for the speakers’ openness and encouragement.

Outcomes and Feedback

• Increased Awareness: Attendees gained a clearerunderstanding of what it takes to succeed in top    universities.
• Actionable Advice:Participants left with practical steps to strengthen their university applications and better     prepare for their academic journeys.
• CommunityBuilding: The event fostered a sense of community and solidarity among aspiring students.

Challenges and Lessons Learned

While the online platform allowed for broader participation,   some technical issues and time constraints limited deeper   discussions. Future events may benefit from extended Q&A sessions or breakout rooms to enable more personalized interactions.

Acknowledgments

IEHO extends its heartfelt thanks to the speakers for generously sharing their time and experiences, as well as the volunteers who ensured the smooth execution of the   event. Special recognition goes to the attendees for their  active engagement and thoughtful questions.

Looking Forward

“ Real Talk with University Insiders” marks another milestone in IEHO’s mission to support students in their educational     endeavors. Building on the success of this event, IEHO plans to host similar initiatives, including workshops, web inars, and in-person events, to further empower students and families in achieving their academic goals.