News
Meet Ms Karen Wolman, a Consultant for US and Overseas University Administrator. We spoke to Ms Wolman to learn more about her and her role.
How long have you worked at the school?
I started covering for Lesley Sharples last year for a term while she was away on medical leave. I am back this term as a consultant for US and overseas university admissions.
What does your role involve?
I meet with pupils to support their applications to the US and other international destinations, from the Netherlands to Canada and Australia. The US application process is very different from UCAS; it is more holistic, with weight placed on extracurricular interests in addition to academic performance. I support students with the Common App and the host of essays and requirements US admission entails. The international makeup of MHS means there is a demand for universities both in and outside the UK.
What is your favourite thing at the school?
I love meeting pupils from such a rich array of backgrounds. Everyone has an interesting story and unique aspirations; it gives me great pleasure to be able to support Sixth Form students at such a critical juncture in their lives.
Do you have any advice for our pupils which could help them to get the most out of their time at the school?
Stay focused on things that will pay off for you and will help you choose and build a career you will be happy with. Try to keep a healthy balance between your studies and outside interests.
What is your favourite book and film for our pupils and why?
Book: I’d recommend The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles. It reads like an adventure story, a classic American cross-country odyssey. The characters are all trying to find out who they are, how they fit into this world. The core characters are three teenage boys – flawed and well meaning -trying to do the right thing.
Film: I’d go with an American classic The Shawshank Redemption, a prison drama starring Tom Robbins and Morgan Freeman. The film wins hearts and minds. It’s the story of a banker wrongfully convicted of murder, the friendship he forges with a contraband smuggler while in prison, and his escape after 19 years.
Could you share an inspirational quote with us? How does it inspire you?
“Education is not preparation for life; it is life itself.” John Dewey
I consider myself a lifelong learner, it’s one of my greatest joys; I never tire of learning new things.
Can you tell us something that we might not know about you?
I love languages, literature, and dance of all sorts. I have myself zigzagged across careers (journalism, garden design, and of course international university consulting). Thus, I can relate to young adults who are looking at a future in which changing careers is becoming commonplace.
