Testimonials & Success Stories

Chantal, University of Essex (UK), BA Tourism Management, Class of ’22

At the closure of 2018, I wasn’t entirely sure of where I wanted to pursue my degree, let alone what I intended on studying. The regular career sessions that I had with Matthew, allowed me to pinpoint my university, as it catered for my subject interests and my personal needs, inclusive of my disability. Matthew played a vital role in regard to this milestone, as he was in close contact with the University, enabling them to fully comprehend my situation.

Additionally, he constantly encouraged me to refine my Personal Statement. Even though my grades didn’t match with the initial requirements of my desired university, Matthew didn’t let that drag me down. With his frequent feedback on my Personal Statement drafts, Matthew enabled me to portray my true self to the university, hence my grades weren’t the only thing that I had to show for myself. I wouldn’t have been enrolled at my first-choice institution, University of Essex, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Tourism Management, if it wasn’t for Matthew!

Soma, University of Miami, BA Marketing and Political Science, Class of ‘22

Mr. Mathew Holborow was my college counselor for 2 years in high school. He was a great listener, very understanding, relate-able, and recommended tools relevant to my situation. He was always supportive and did everything in his best effort to find the most suitable college for me. Throughout my whole process of applying for universities, he would constantly provide advice and help with research, college essays, Personal-statements, and scholarships. Through his determination, I was able to secure a $100,000 scholarship to the University of Miami, where I’m currently majoring in Marketing, and minoring in Political Science. His several years of college counseling experience can truly be seen in his work. I highly recommend him to anyone who is expecting to get into a good college, with scholarships.

Jasmine, George Mason University (USA), BA English, Class of '23

The challenge of applying to U.S. universities while attending an international school was made much smoother and successful thanks to Mr. Holborow’s support. From career counseling to thorough essay workshopping, Mr. Holborow‘s guidance affirmed my college ambitions and helped me form tangible goals toward them. As a result, I was accepted with scholarships to all universities to which I applied and secured a four-year, full tuition merit scholarship at my current school.

Ms Sharmin, Former College Counselor at International School Dhaka

I consider myself lucky to have worked with Matthew Holborow for 3 years at International School Dhaka as an assistant college counselor. Matthew has a knack for motivating not only his students but I have seen the door was generously opened for his colleagues who were seeking advice on professional development. Matthew knew very well how to bring out the skill set from his students and apply them well to their application process. He knew what exactly the student was seeking for their higher education and he would try his best to place the students to where they are the right fit. Bangladeshi parents have reservations sending their daughters to western countries and it was challenging to convince them. As a counselor, I have seen him giving his best effort making sure every student can reach out to their best fit destination. Being in this profession for many years, Matt shares a great network with the University admissions and we had many magical visits from Universities where parents were happily convinced on higher education overseas. His work is his priority in his life and he truly enjoys his time advising his students and preparing them well for their life ahead. Our secondary school was a place for nearly 400 students and he ran the career counselling office immaculately, making it the most comfortable learning zone for our students. I truly miss his leadership and hope to work again with this amazing optimistic person.

Nafis, University of British Columbia, BSc, Class of 2018

Mr. Matthew Holborow was my College Counselor. He understood my need for a scholarship or to pursue a university education overseas successfully. I recall Mr. Holborow putting a genuine effort to support me in preparing my scholarship essays, applications, etc. He proofread my writings repeatedly and on short notices and provided feedback in a forthright and kind manner.

I received university admissions to four large public universities in Canada, three liberal arts colleges and two large public universities in the US, and one university in Singapore. I received full tuition and board scholarships to UBC (where I studied engineering) and the Yale-NUS College in Singapore.

I am thankful to many of my teachers for my university admissions, but particularly to Mr. Holborow. I encourage all high school students aspiring for their success in university admissions to seek his thoughtful and caring guidance.