2020 Cambridge Network Summer In-Country Orientation for International Students

2020-07-24 Mariah Thomson

Each year, Cambridge Network holds In-Country Orientations (ICO) in major cities throughout Asia for our incoming international students as they are set to begin their study abroad journeys. The multi-day pre-departure event helps set appropriate expectations about studying and living abroad in the United States, which are essential to student retention and ensuring long-term success after their arrival. Students and their families also engage in activities and directly ask any questions they may have about studying in the U.S.

This year, the event was held in a virtual webinar format with outstanding guest speakers such as teachers from our partner U.S. high schools, admissions officers, experienced Cambridge staff, and representatives of current parents and students. Representatives and more than 20 guests joined the event, presenting exciting content for six days to incoming students and parents from China, South Korea, Vietnam, and other countries.

While attendees did not have the usual benefit of face-to-face communication, our virtual format did not hinder students’ enthusiasm and parents who participated. Parents and students actively interacted with our guests, who provided useful and valuable guidance on making the transition to studying abroad. A highlight of this year’s event was the showcasing of successful Cambridge Network alumni and current students’ stories in our program.

A significant area of focus in this year’s ICO was safety and health due to concerns of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. At the opening of the event, our Cambridge Network COO Barbara Liang addressed student and parent concerns in her remarks on the current responses from government and educational agencies on COVID-19 and new regulations and policies put in place for the protection of international students. Additionally, Liang emphasized Cambridge Network’s company policies in alignment with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as well as state, local, and school recommendations.

In the closing event, Christine Lin, CEO of Cambridge Network, gave an inspiring speech to students and parents in encouraging everyone to celebrate their diverse identities and cultures and the necessity of pursuing one’s dream through education.

Cambridge Network’s In-country Orientation is a long-standing tradition for our international students as we honor our past and current students. They reflect on their journey and pass on their knowledge to the incoming class. The carefully planned activities and discussions fully prepare our students to study in the U.S successfully. In our post-attendance survey, students and parents rated this year’s event with the average NPS (Net Promoter Score) of 92, an almost near-perfect score on the scale of -100 to 100.

Cambridge Network is an international education consulting company that provides admissions, academic, and homestay solutions to high schools throughout the United States and Canada. We work to raise the international profile of high schools, enhance diversity, and provide valuable support and supervision for all Cambridge students.

For students looking for international education opportunities and services, please submit a student inquiry form.

For schools looking for more information on Cambridge Network and our services, please submit an inquiry form.