Secondary students and parents gathered in the Jetnasium to explore college admissions and educational avenues at the American Educational Opportunities (AEO) USA University Fair on April 21. With over a dozen colleges in attendance, the event paved the way for students to discover new universities, engage with representatives, and inquire about the admissions process for their future applications.

Mrs. Jolly and the AEO tour director Ben Wilkey collectively organized the event. AEO coordinates student recruitment tours in East and Southeast Asia for U.S. universities. “I’ve met him in a couple different conferences that I’ve gone to, so he contacted me and I filled out an event form for him, so the event came to be,” Mrs. Jolly said. 

The tour’s primary mission centered on opening paths for DIS students, who often face challenges in college applications due to limited resources and geographic distance. “I wanted to showcase a diverse range of universities—liberal arts, public, and private—to help expand their awareness of what’s truly available to them,” Wilkey said.

The fair also introduced students to new institutions, expanding their choices. “(I was interested) in Purdue University or the State University of New York at Buffalo because of the major I want to perform, and I got to learn more about my major,” eighth-grader Joseph Yoon said. 

With plans for even more prospects next year, DIS aims to continue supporting students in their academic growth and preparation for future success. “This is the best time in the history of the world to be a student—there are more opportunities than ever,” Wilkey said. 

Gallery • 11 Photos

Esther Choi

Seniors Aaron Shin, Tommy Jang, and Kevin Lim show off the merch they received from the Stevens Institute of Technology. Having already secured their college acceptances, they share valuable insights and encouragement with underclassmen.