Eton College hosted the Worldwide Leading Schools Association (WLSA) event to raise awareness of the opportunities for global education.
Eton welcomed seven admissions leaders from prestigious US Universities to the event, which reflects Eton’s commitment to helping students and families make well-informed choices as they make decisions to embark on their college journeys.
Over 280 boys, parents and partner schools came together to listen to and question the distinguished panel* of university admissions experts from top institutions, including Vanderbilt, Boston, New York, Columbia, Chicago and Carnegie Mellon.
Moderated by Dr. Douglas Christiansen, Chair of the WLSA Council Board and Vice Provost for Enrolment at Vanderbilt University, the panel provided families with crucial insights into the U.S. college admissions landscape. Key topics included navigating different application types, decision plans, and the holistic review process that top institutions use to evaluate applicants beyond academic grades and test scores.
Whilst grades and test scores are part of the picture, they also look at extracurriculars, personal essays, letters of recommendation, and the applicant’s overall context. “We want to understand what’s important to you, how you approach the world, and the unique voice you’ll bring to the classroom,” said Jessica Marinaccio, Dean of Undergraduate Admissions, Columbia University. This holistic approach helps admissions teams assess each applicant’s potential to contribute meaningfully to campus life. Panellists highlighted how students can best present their authentic selves, contribute to a campus community and select universities where they will thrive.
The session also emphasised WLSA’s mission of supporting students of all backgrounds, promoting diversity and offering pathways for self-funded and supported students alike. Eton’s collaboration with WLSA dates back over 20 years with the support of former Head Master Tony Little, who was a founding member.
*The panel featured:
- Dr. Douglas Christiansen – Vice Provost for Enrolment Affairs, Vanderbilt University, WLSA Chair
- Kelly Walter – Associate Vice President for Enrolment, Boston University
- Keith Gehres – Associate Vice Provost for Enrolment Innovation, Carnegie Mellon University
- Dr. Carol Kim – Vice President of Global Recruitment, New York University
- Ms. Jessica Marinaccio – Dean of Undergraduate Admissions, Columbia University
- Mr. Jim Nondorf – Vice President for Enrolment, University of Chicago
- Ms. Erica Sanders – Assistant Vice Provost for Enrolment Management, University of Michigan
