On Friday, November 10, 2023, VNIS Education had the privilege of attending the U.S. Boarding School Agent Networking Event held at the Lotte Hotel Saigon in Ho Chi Minh City. This event brought together 19 prestigious U.S. boarding schools to showcase their unique programs and opportunities to potential agents. As a leading education consultancy in Vietnam, VNIS Education was excited to participate in this event and learn more about the distinct offerings of American boarding schools.
The event covered a wide range of topics including the uniqueness of boarding schools, differences in curricula, academics, arts, sports, facilities, dormitory life, weekend life, extracurricular offerings, and financial incentives for agents. In this article, we will delve deeper into these topics and provide a comprehensive overview of the event and the opportunities presented by American boarding schools.
Uniqueness of Boarding Schools: A Home Away from Home
The Benefits of a Boarding School Education
One of the key highlights of the event was the discussion on the uniqueness of boarding schools. Unlike traditional day schools, boarding schools offer a home away from home for students. This means that students live on campus and are provided with round-the-clock support and supervision. This allows students to fully immerse themselves in their studies and extracurricular activities without the distractions of everyday life.
Boarding schools also offer a close-knit community where students develop strong relationships with their peers and teachers. This creates a supportive and inclusive environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Additionally, living on campus allows students to develop independence and responsibility, preparing them for the challenges of college and adulthood.
The Importance of Diversity and Inclusivity in Boarding Schools
Another aspect that sets boarding schools apart is their commitment to diversity and inclusivity. At the event, we learned that American boarding schools have a diverse student body with students from different backgrounds, cultures, and countries. This creates a rich and dynamic learning environment where students can learn from each other’s experiences and perspectives.
Furthermore, boarding schools are committed to creating an inclusive community where all students feel valued and supported. This is achieved through various initiatives such as diversity and inclusion workshops, cultural celebrations, and support systems for students from marginalized communities. As agents, it is important to highlight these aspects of boarding schools to potential students and their families.
List of Participating Schools
| No. | Name of School | Location of School | Type of School |
| 1 | Perkiomen School | Pennsburg, Pennsylvania, USA | Co-ed |
| 2 | Saint Stanislaus High School | Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, USA | All-boys |
| 3 | EF Academy International Boarding School | New York, Pasadena, California |
Co-ed |
| 4 | Chatham Hall | Chatham, Virginia, USA | All-girls |
| 5 | Ross School | East Hampton, New York, USA | Co-ed |
| 6 | Madison Country Day School | Madison, Wisconsin, USA | Co-ed |
| 7 | Fork Union Military Academy | Fork Union, Virginia, USA | All-boys |
| 8 | Saint John’s Prep School | Collegeville, Minnesota, USA | Co-ed |
| 9 | Salem Academy | Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA | All-girls |
| 10 | EF Academy New York | Thornwood, New York, USA | Co-ed |
| 11 | EF Academy Pasadena | Pasadena, California, USA | Co-ed |
| 12 | The Cambridge School of Weston | Weston, Massachusetts, USA | Co-ed |
| 13 | Worcester Academy | Worcester, Massachusetts, USA | Co-ed |
| 14 | Chaminade College Preparatory School | St. Louis, Missouri, USA | All-boys |
| 15 | St. Stephen’s Episcopal School | Austin, Texas, USA | Co-ed |
| 16 | The Woodstock Academy | Woodstock, Connecticut, USA | Co-ed |
| 17 | Dana Hall School | Wellesley, Massachusetts, USA | All-girls |
| 18 | The Governor’s Academy | Byfield, Massachusetts, USA | Co-ed |
| 19 | Ross School | East Hampton, New York, USA | Co-ed |
| 20 | The Fessenden School | West Newton, Massachusetts,USA | All-boys |
| 21 | Sandy Spring Friends School | Sandy Spring Maryland, USA | Co-ed |
| 22 | St. Anne’s-Belfield School | Charlottesville, Virginia, USA | Co-ed |
Differences in Curricula: A Focus on Holistic Education
The Advantages of a Well-Rounded Education
During the event, we had the opportunity to learn about the differences in curricula between American boarding schools and traditional day schools. One key difference is the focus on holistic education in boarding schools. While academic excellence is still a top priority, boarding schools also place a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities, character development, and leadership skills.
This well-rounded education prepares students for success not only in college but also in their personal and professional lives. By participating in a variety of activities such as sports, arts, and community service, students develop a range of skills and interests that make them stand out in college applications and future job opportunities.
The Flexibility of Course Offerings
Another advantage of American boarding schools is the flexibility of their course offerings. Unlike traditional day schools that follow a set curriculum, boarding schools offer a wide range of courses and electives for students to choose from. This allows students to tailor their education to their interests and strengths, providing a more personalized learning experience.
Additionally, boarding schools also offer advanced placement (AP) courses, which allow students to earn college credits while still in high school. This not only saves time and money but also gives students a head start in their college education. As agents, it is important to highlight the flexibility and opportunities offered by American boarding schools to potential students.
Academics Offered: A Strong Foundation for College Success
The Rigorous Curriculum of Boarding Schools
At the event, we had the chance to learn about the academic offerings of American boarding schools. It was evident that these schools have a rigorous curriculum that prepares students for success in college and beyond. With small class sizes and dedicated teachers, students receive personalized attention and support to excel academically.
Moreover, boarding schools also offer a wide range of advanced courses such as AP, International Baccalaureate (IB), and honors courses. These courses not only challenge students but also provide them with valuable skills and knowledge that are highly sought after by colleges and employers.
The Importance of College Preparation
Another key aspect of academics in boarding schools is the focus on college preparation. From the moment students step foot on campus, they are guided and supported in their college journey. This includes assistance with college applications, standardized tests, and essay writing. Additionally, many boarding schools have partnerships with top universities, giving students access to resources and connections that can help them get into their dream colleges.
As agents, it is important to highlight the strong academic foundation and college preparation offered by American boarding schools to potential students and their families.
Arts Offered: Nurturing Creativity and Expression
The Role of Arts in Boarding Schools
One of the highlights of the event was learning about the arts programs offered by American boarding schools. These schools understand the importance of nurturing creativity and self-expression in students. That’s why they offer a variety of arts programs such as music, dance, theater, visual arts, and more.
The arts not only provide students with an outlet for self-expression but also teach valuable skills such as teamwork, discipline, and creativity. Many boarding schools also have state-of-the-art facilities and equipment for students to explore their artistic passions.
The Benefits of an Arts Education
Research has shown that students who participate in the arts perform better academically and have higher levels of self-esteem and confidence. This is why many boarding schools have a strong focus on arts education and offer a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved.
Moreover, the arts are also highly valued by colleges and employers, making students with a background in the arts stand out in the competitive college admissions process and job market. As agents, it is important to highlight the benefits of an arts education and the opportunities available at American boarding schools.
Sports Offered: Fostering Physical and Mental Well-being
The Importance of Sports in Boarding Schools
At the event, we learned about the various sports programs offered by American boarding schools. These schools understand the importance of physical activity in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and fostering overall well-being. That’s why they offer a wide range of sports such as soccer, basketball, swimming, tennis, and more.
Participating in sports not only promotes physical health but also teaches valuable life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and perseverance. Additionally, many boarding schools have top-notch athletic facilities and coaches to help students excel in their chosen sport.
The Benefits of a Balanced Lifestyle
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy for students to become overwhelmed with academic pressures and extracurricular commitments. However, boarding schools promote a balanced lifestyle by encouraging students to participate in sports and other physical activities. This not only helps students stay physically fit but also improves their mental health and overall well-being.
Furthermore, many boarding schools also offer scholarships for talented athletes, providing them with the opportunity to continue their sports career in college. As agents, it is important to highlight the benefits of a balanced lifestyle and the opportunities available for student-athletes at American boarding schools.
Facilities of Schools: State-of-the-Art Resources for Student Success
The Importance of Facilities in Boarding Schools
During the event, we had the chance to tour the facilities of the participating boarding schools. It was evident that these schools have invested heavily in providing students with state-of-the-art resources and facilities for their academic and personal development. From modern classrooms and laboratories to spacious dormitories and athletic facilities, boarding schools offer a conducive environment for students to thrive.
Moreover, many boarding schools also have partnerships with local organizations and businesses, giving students access to internships and hands-on learning opportunities. This not only enhances their education but also prepares them for future career success.
The Role of Technology in Boarding Schools
In today’s digital age, technology plays a crucial role in education. That’s why many boarding schools have integrated technology into their curriculum and provide students with the latest tools and resources. This not only prepares students for the use of technology in college and the workforce but also makes learning more engaging and interactive.
Furthermore, many boarding schools also offer coding and computer science courses, giving students a head start in the rapidly growing field of technology. As agents, it is important to highlight the advanced facilities and technology offered by American boarding schools to potential students and their families.
Dormitory Life & Weekend Life: A Unique Experience
The Benefits of Living on Campus
One of the key aspects of boarding schools is the opportunity for students to live on campus. During the event, we learned about the unique experience of dormitory life and how it contributes to the overall growth and development of students. Living on campus allows students to form close bonds with their peers and teachers, creating a strong sense of community and belonging.
Moreover, living on campus also teaches students valuable life skills such as time management, responsibility, and independence. This prepares them for the challenges of college and adulthood, making them well-rounded individuals.
The Importance of Weekend Activities
In addition to dormitory life, boarding schools also offer a variety of weekend activities for students to participate in. These activities range from cultural trips and community service projects to outdoor adventures and sports tournaments. This not only provides students with a break from their academic studies but also allows them to explore their interests and passions outside of the classroom.
Furthermore, many boarding schools also organize special events and workshops on weekends, giving students the opportunity to learn new skills and gain valuable experiences. As agents, it is important to highlight the unique experience of dormitory and weekend life at American boarding schools to potential students.
Extracurricular Offerings: A Diverse Range of Opportunities
The Importance of Extracurricular Activities
At the event, we learned about the various extracurricular offerings of American boarding schools. These schools understand the importance of providing students with a diverse range of opportunities to explore their interests and passions. From music and drama clubs to debate teams and student government, there is something for every student to get involved in.
Extracurricular activities not only enhance students’ personal development but also provide valuable skills and experiences that can be applied in college and future careers. Moreover, these activities also allow students to form strong bonds with their peers and teachers, creating a supportive and inclusive community.
The Role of Community Service
Another aspect of extracurricular activities in boarding schools is the emphasis on community service. Many boarding schools have partnerships with local organizations and encourage students to give back to their communities through volunteer work. This not only teaches students the value of service but also instills a sense of responsibility and empathy in them.
Furthermore, community service is highly valued by colleges and employers, making students with a background in community service stand out in the admissions process and job market. As agents, it is important to highlight the diverse range of extracurricular opportunities and the emphasis on community service at American boarding schools.
Unique and Distinctive Programs: A World of Opportunities
The Variety of Programs Offered by Boarding Schools
One of the highlights of the event was learning about the unique and distinctive programs offered by American boarding schools. These programs go beyond traditional academic subjects and provide students with a world of opportunities to explore their interests and passions. From entrepreneurship and leadership programs to environmental science and global studies, there is something for every student to pursue.
Moreover, these programs often have partnerships with top universities and organizations, giving students access to resources and connections that can help them achieve their goals. As agents, it is important to highlight the variety of programs offered by American boarding schools and the opportunities they present to students.
How to Ask for an Agent Contract
As agents, attending events like the U.S. Boarding School Agent Networking Event is a great opportunity to connect with prestigious boarding schools and establish partnerships. However, it is important to know how to ask for an agent contract in a professional and effective manner.
Firstly, do your research and familiarize yourself with the school’s offerings and requirements. This will show the school that you are genuinely interested in representing them. Secondly, be prepared to showcase your experience and expertise in the education industry. Lastly, be confident and articulate in your communication with the school representatives.
Financial Incentives offered to Agents in a Contract
In addition to the opportunity to represent prestigious American boarding schools, agents also receive financial incentives in a contract. These incentives may include commission on student enrollments, travel expenses, and marketing support from the school. It is important for agents to negotiate these incentives and ensure that they are mutually beneficial for both parties.
Conclusion: A World of Opportunities with American Boarding Schools
The U.S. Boarding School Agent Networking Event provided us with a comprehensive look at the uniqueness and opportunities offered by American boarding schools. From a well-rounded education and strong academic foundation to diverse extracurricular offerings and state-of-the-art facilities, these schools have a lot to offer students.
As agents, it is our responsibility to educate potential students and their families about the benefits of attending an American boarding school. By highlighting the distinct programs, financial incentives, and unique experiences offered by these schools, we can help students make informed decisions about their education and future. We are grateful for the opportunity to attend this event and look forward to continuing our partnership with American boarding schools in providing quality education to Vietnamese students.
