Mug of TUG Term 1

Join school-based counsellors and advisers from across the UK for our monthly online networking session for those supporting students with international university applications.

This is a peer-to-peer community space built around shared practice, honest conversation, and professional support. Rather than a one-way update, these sessions bring advisers together to talk through real challenges, exchange ideas, and share what’s working in schools across the UK and beyond.

Facilitated by The University Guys, each session draws on themes and observations from across the sector, but the focus is on connection—hearing from one another, problem-solving together, and strengthening the adviser community working in this space.

You can expect:

• Open discussion with fellow school counsellors and advisers
• Peer-to-peer sharing of best practice and practical approaches
• Space to explore current challenges in international applications
• Insights and reflections from across different school contexts
• A supportive network of colleagues working in the same field

Discussion themes for this term:

8th September - Results Behind Us, Deadlines Ahead
A candid autumn check-in covering summer grade and transcript issues, key UCAS and US deadlines, getting essays and personal statements moving, and sharing practical approaches with fellow advisers.

6th October — Finishing the Essays Before the Early Deadlines
What does “finished” actually look like at this stage, and how do you support students who are still redrafting in the second week of term?

3rd November — Deadline Season: Tests, Predictions, and Keeping Students Calm
With US deadlines landing, Oxbridge admissions tests underway and predicted grades being finalised, how do we manage the pile-up without students absorbing the stress?

1st December — Interviews and Early Decisions: Steady Hands Before the Break
As interview invitations and US Early Decision results arrive, we’ll share approaches to interview preparation and supporting students through an ED result, whatever the outcome.

Bring a mug of your favourite drink and join a relaxed, practical conversation with others who understand the work first hand.

Whether you’re experienced in international advising or newer to the role, this is a space to connect, learn from peers, and feel supported in your practice.

We look forward to seeing you there.