Guidance counselor

The Guidance Counselor supports students in Grades 8–12, helping them navigate their academic journey, personal development, and future educational and career pathways. Through individualized guidance and close collaboration with students, parents, and teachers, the Guidance Office provides comprehensive support in three key areas:

• Student Well-being and School Transitions
• Academic Planning and Strategy
• Career and University Guidance

Support is confidential, personalized, and tailored to each student’s needs—from settling into a new school environment to celebrating university offers and preparing for life beyond Miras.

Grade 8–9: Foundation and Transition

Students begin developing the skills and confidence needed for future success through:

• Individual support with school transition, friendships, and well-being
• Development of study skills, time management, organization, and critical thinking
• Career exploration activities and psychometric assessments
• Career Days and meetings with professionals
• Early discussions about interests, strengths, and future academic pathways

Grade 10: Planning for the Future

As students prepare for upper secondary education, guidance focuses on informed decision-making and long-term planning.

Support includes:

• Guidance on IB Diploma Programme subject selection
• Individual university planning meetings
• Introduction to university admission requirements and standardized tests (SAT, IELTS, TOEFL, UNT)
• Career exploration and pathway planning
• Developing alternative university and gap-year plans where appropriate

Grade 11: Building a Strong University Profile

Students receive comprehensive support in preparing competitive university applications.

Key areas include:

• University research and shortlisting in Kazakhstan and internationally
• Planning for SAT, IELTS, TOEFL, and UNT examinations
• Personal statement and essay guidance
• Summer school and university campus opportunities
• Meetings with visiting university representatives
• Scholarship and financial aid guidance

Grade 12: University Applications and Decision Making

The Guidance Counselor provides step-by-step support throughout the application process, including:

• Managing application timelines and submission requirements
• Support with Common App, UCAS, and other national application systems
• Final review of essays and application documents
• Interview preparation and mock interviews
• Scholarship and financial aid applications
• Guidance on university offers and final enrollment decisions

Ongoing Student Support

Throughout the year, students and families have access to:

• Individual counseling and guidance meetings
• Drop-in consultation sessions
• Parent consultations
• Career guidance events and university presentations
• Collaboration with universities and educational organizations
• Assistance with internships, summer programmes, and work experience opportunities