Wiann Wilson, an alumna of GEMS Wellington International School in Dubai, has set a remarkable example for students aspiring to gain admission to top-tier universities in the United States. Through her leadership roles, self-driven initiatives, and a steadfast commitment to making a difference in the UAE and beyond, she successfully secured a place at her dream institution—Columbia University in New York City—as a Political Science major. Wiann started working with Hale’s counseling team early in high school, a strategic move to build a comprehensive profile over four years. While she already possessed the foundational elements of a strong application, she collaborated closely with her counselors to enhance her profile through extracurricular activities and in-depth academic research.
As expected of any Ivy League admit, Wiann maintained an outstanding academic record throughout high school and was deeply involved in her school and local community. She honed her communication and leadership skills through roles such as Head Girl, MUN Secretary General, Lead Writer of her school’s magazine, and Social Media Lead at a local non-profit organization. These roles were not just for show; they reflected her consistent drive to improve her community in various ways.
What set Wiann apart from the thousands of international students applying to North American universities was her early and genuine interest in Columbia. This interest was sparked by Professor Kimberle Crenshaw, whose work in civil rights advocacy and intersectionality profoundly influenced Wiann’s academic and extracurricular pursuits. Inspired by Crenshaw’s legacy at Columbia, Wiann aimed to expand on her theories through research and initiatives promoting intersectional policies and Critical Race Theory.
Recognizing the need for change in her own community, Wiann organized a program with “Diversify our Narrative” to include the histories and experiences of marginalized voices. To strengthen her theoretical understanding, she conducted research in her final year of high school with a PhD mentor from Washington University, focusing on the crisis of masculinity in the political economy, with case studies from the United States and India.
Ultimately, Wiann crafted an application that showcased her excellence across multiple domains while aligning with her passion for social issues and her commitment to Columbia University. As she embarks on her new journey this fall, she will undoubtedly continue the legacy of its esteemed alumni and faculty.
This meticulous approach to admissions counseling is what distinguishes Hale Education and the students it mentors from the competition. In an American admissions landscape where international student acceptance rates are increasingly competitive, the holistic strategies offered by Hale counselors often prove to be the deciding factor.
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