Counseling services at the Western Academy of Beijing promote personal well-being, healthy relationships and the successful balance of academic, extracurricular and community involvement for WAB students. Our counselors offer guidance in all aspects of school life, from the first day of class to preparing for graduation and applying to universities.

Counseling Services

Often one of the first staff members new students meet, our experienced, caring counselors assist with initial placement through review of academic records and help develop a suitable study program.

Students may also receive assistance from a counselor in dealing with a wide a range of personal, academic and social issues common to their age group.

Typical issues may involve:

Social relationships
Emotional well-being
Time management
Transitioning from Elementary to Middle to High School to university
University counseling
Academic planning and decision making
Post High School planning
Problem solving and life skills development
Crisis intervention

In Grade 11, the formal University Counseling Program begins and continues throughout Grade 12. The focus is on providing information on university/career awareness and assistance in researching options and preparing applications for future educational choices.

Meet Our Counselors

High School

Michelle Chow-Liu

Head of HS Counseling, HS Counselor

Natasha Tavares

HS Counselor

Brian Chesher

HS Counselor

Arina Mei

HS Counselor

University Counseling

The transition from High School to university and beyond is an exciting and important time for our students, their families and our staff.

The Western Academy of Beijing is committed to supporting our High School students not only to make that transition, but to enter the world with confidence and success. Our counselors offer guidance in all aspects of preparing for life after graduation.

We involve parents every step of the way and help students individually to make informed decisions and discover what university or college is right for them. Guidance is given in all aspects of the application process, from writing stand-out essays to understanding admission and financial aid processes.

University Counseling Services

Yale is a lot like WAB, because they both offer the freedom to explore and pursue your passions. The only difference is that WAB is home.

Middle School

Regina Wehner

MS Counselor, ES Counselor (EY - Grade 3), Head of Elementary and Middle School Counseling

Rachel George

MS - Counsellor, IDEAS Lead

Elementary School

Regina Wehner

MS Counselor, ES Counselor (EY - Grade 3), Head of Elementary and Middle School Counseling

Ben O'Brien

Whole School Student Support Services Coordinator, Grade 4-5 Counselor

Nandini Sukhtankar

ES - Counselor

University Counseling Services

Assistance for Students

Admission Representatives

WAB gave me the skills I need for higher education. I definitely would not be where I am today without WAB.

University Application Assistance

WAB offers a wide range of resources and a comprehensive program to assist students and their families with university planning. The counseling department has a large selection of international reference guides, university catalogues, and admissions testing materials.

Counselors will also take initiative in assisting students with university searches and applications. A detailed WAB University Handbook is available in the Counseling Center and online to support students and families through this important process.

World of Work Program

The World of Work program offers students in the High School work experience opportunities, developing life skills, and preparing to make informed choices about their future learning.

Every High School student at some stage will have the opportunity to participate, ensuring that WAB is equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to meet the demands of the 21st century.

University Visits

WAB welcomes visitors from universities around the world, and hosts several university tours throughout the year. Parents and students are strongly encouraged to attend these presentations.

Career Fair

This half-day High School event serves to broaden our students’ horizons and deepen their understanding of a variety of professions.

Past WAB Career Fair panelists include professionals from:

Architecture/Arts & Design based creative industries
Business/Finance/Law
Engineering/Research & Development
Entrepreneurship (starting your own business)/NGOs
Government/Diplomatic Affairs
Health/Medicine
Hospitality/Customer Relations
Journalism/Media
Marketing/Public Relations (PR)
Performing Arts/Dance/Music/Theater

Information for University Admission Representatives

Western Academy of Beijing (WAB) is a leading non-profit, independent IB World School. Founded in 1994, WAB prides itself on innovative and highly qualified teachers, world-class facilities, diverse community, warm and supportive environment and service-oriented culture. Students from over 50 countries are the focus of WAB’s learner-centered atmosphere, and are encouraged to take their place as responsible citizens of the world.

Both the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) are offered in the High School. In addition, every graduate earns an accredited Western Academy of Beijing High School Diploma.

Accreditations and Memberships