Starting Early: Guiding Students Toward Their Future at Dwight School Seoul

“Igniting the Spark of Genius”

At Dwight School Seoul (DSS), we believe that meaningful university and career preparation begins early. That is why students are encouraged to start their University and Career Counseling (UCC) journey as early as Grade 9. From this foundational year onward, DSS UCC team works closely with the Upper School academic team to design a thoughtfully structured and highly personalized educational experience. Together, they support each student in discovering their strengths, interests, and aspirations, empowering them to choose future pathways that are both purposeful and achievable.
 

[Image by Dwight School Seoul]

Beginning in Grade 9 students engage in once a week UCC seminars that help them reflect on their academic goals and long-term ambitions. These sessions are complemented by 1:1 personalized meetings, parent workshops, and university visits for families and the wider community. This collaborative approach ensures that students receive consistent guidance and encouragement as they explore university options, career possibilities, and personal growth opportunities.
 
As students progress through the upper grades, this journey becomes even more dynamic. Recently, the Grade 11 students had the opportunity to participate in an alumni panel discussion, where they engaged directly with Dwight School Seoul graduates. During the session, alumni shared their personal university experiences, career journeys, and the diverse paths they have taken since graduation. Students were able to ask questions, gain practical insights, and hear firsthand how early preparation and thoughtful decision-making shaped their alumni peers’ futures. This meaningful exchange offered students a realistic and inspiring glimpse into life beyond high school.
 
Importantly, the UCC journey at Dwight School Seoul does not end at any single grade level. Instead, it evolves continuously, supporting students at every stage of their development. From early exploration in Grade 9 to focused university planning in the Diploma Programme years, the goal is to ensure that every student is equipped with the knowledge, confidence, and support needed to make informed choices.
 

Kaleena Carter, UCC director at Dwight School Seoul shared, “With the ever-changing landscape of admissions around the world, it is pertinent that we inform and guide students to prepare them for this big commitment in their adult years. At Dwight, we've been able to cultivate a program that shifts to the needs of our community with expertise and collaboration.”  
 
By starting early and maintaining a personalized, student-centered approach, Dwight School Seoul ensures that each student is prepared to pursue the university pathway that best aligns with their goals, setting them up not only for academic success, but for a fulfilling future beyond the classroom.
  

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