Buket Ayaz is a dynamic and accomplished University Guidance Counselor with over 15 years of experience guiding students toward their academic dreams. Her journey began with the Independent Educational Consultant Association’s Summer Institute, where she discovered her passion for helping students navigate the world of international higher education. Since then, Buket has built an impressive career spanning continents. She has developed college readiness programs in international schools, forged partnerships with universities, and supported countless students through the intricate process of university applications. After moving to Dubai in 2016, she earned her College Access Counseling Program certificate from Rice University and has been instrumental in standardizing career counseling curriculums and delivering counselor training workshops across the UAE. Currently, Buket leads as the Head of University Counseling at Nord Anglia International School Dubai. Known for her approachable style and forward-thinking strategies, she is dedicated to empowering students, collaborating with families, and mentoring other counselors worldwide to elevate the profession.
The journey through higher education has always been about more than just academics—it’s about discovery, growth, and finding a sense of purpose. But today, that journey is evolving in unprecedented ways, influenced by economic uncertainty, shifting family dynamics, and a growing recognition of the power students have over their own educational trajectories.
One of the most striking trends we’ve observed in recent years is the rise in students transferring between universities. Many begin their higher education journey only to realize within a year that their initial choice wasn’t the right fit. While this might seem unsettling at first, it reflects a deeper, more empowering reality: students are no longer passive participants in their education. They are increasingly willing to reassess, recalibrate, and make changes that align better with their personal and professional aspirations.
This surge in transfer rates signals a shift in how both students and universities approach higher education. For students, it’s a reminder that a single misstep isn’t the end of the world. For universities, however, it presents a significant challenge—how to not only attract students but also retain them in an era of limitless options.
The Challenges of Fit and Match
Counselors like myself are seeing an upward trend in the number of students re-evaluating their college choices after the first year. This has made our role more multifaceted than ever before. It’s no longer enough to help students identify a potential fit before they leave for college. We now have to consider how well that fit will sustain them during their time there and equip them to thrive in the long run.
The idea of “fit and match” has always been a cornerstone of effective college counseling, but it has taken on new dimensions. In the past, much of the emphasis was on getting students into the “right” university. Today, we need to ensure students understand that a good fit isn’t just about rankings or prestige—it’s about alignment with their goals, values, and preferred learning environments.
For parents, this can be a daunting realization. Many still cling to the belief that once their child has secured a place at a reputable university, the hard part is over. But the reality is more nuanced. Students need ongoing support to navigate challenges, whether academic, social, or personal.
Why Retention Matters More Than Ever
Universities, too, are feeling the pressure. Recruitment has traditionally focused on showcasing the institution’s unique traits during the admissions process. However, retaining students requires more than an impressive first impression. Institutions must continuously work to meet students’ evolving needs, fostering a sense of belonging and ensuring that their programs remain relevant.
A student who feels disconnected or unsupported will likely seek opportunities elsewhere. This is particularly true in an age where educational options are more diverse than ever—whether it’s transferring to a different university, taking a gap year, or pursuing alternative paths like online learning.
Retention, therefore, has become a measure of a university’s ability to adapt. How well does the institution create an environment where students feel valued and engaged? Are there enough opportunities for students to explore new interests, form meaningful connections, and address challenges proactively?
Empowering Students to Make Informed Choices
The rising number of transfer students highlights the importance of helping young people navigate the vast array of choices available to them. While it’s wonderful that students today have seemingly endless possibilities, this abundance can also be overwhelming.
Counselors, parents, and universities must work together to guide students in making decisions that align with their long-term aspirations. This involves:
- Encouraging self-reflection: Students need to understand their strengths, values, and goals.
- Providing transparent information: Universities must clearly communicate what they offer and how they support students beyond the first year.
- Building resilience: Students should feel empowered to take risks and learn from setbacks, knowing that no decision is irreversible.
A Unique Year, A Growing Trend
This year, I’ve worked with more transfer students than ever before—a trend that reflects broader shifts in the higher education landscape. Each transfer story is unique, shaped by personal, academic, and economic factors. But the common thread is a desire for greater alignment between the student’s vision and their chosen institution.
As counselors, our job is becoming more complex. It’s not just about helping students gain admission to the “right” college. It’s about equipping them with the tools to succeed while they’re there and empowering them to make bold choices if their path needs adjustment.
The Missing Link: Collaboration
Ultimately, the key to navigating this evolving landscape lies in collaboration. Students, parents, counselors, and universities all have a role to play in creating meaningful educational experiences. By fostering open communication, supporting adaptability, and emphasizing the importance of fit and match, we can ensure that students not only survive but thrive in their educational journeys.
As we move forward, we must ask ourselves: How can we better prepare students for the realities of higher education? How can universities adapt to meet students’ changing needs? And how can we, as counselors, help students minimize the noise of endless possibilities and make choices that truly matter?
The answers to these questions will shape the future of higher education and the success of the students we serve.