#19 Teresa Song - Founder of Nova Scholar
In this episode, Ruth Benny sits down with Teresa Song, founder of Nova Scholars, to explore how parents and students can think more strategically about higher education, university admissions, and long-term decision-making in an increasingly competitive world. Teresa is the founder of Nova Scholars, a strategic education consultancy specialising in university admissions and long-term academic planning. With a background in finance, startups, and over 15 years working with high-achieving students who accept offers into Oxbridge and other top universities, Teresa applies business and systems thinking to education strategy. Teresa studied Economics at the London School of Economics, later returning to complete a Masterâs degree, and previously worked in investment banking (M&A) before transitioning into education consulting. Join the conversation focuses on grades and short-term outcomes, Teresa brings a refreshing, systems-based perspective â one that looks beyond marks to judgment, identity, positioning, and adaptability. Donât miss this insightful conversation! đĄ Why Listen: Grades Are Necessary â But Not Sufficient The Missing Curriculum: Judgment & Strategy The Academic Strategy Compass Why âMore Tutoringâ Isnât Always the Answer The Cost of Narrowing Too Early Personal Branding for Students Independent vs State School Advice Confidence as an Outcome, Not a Performance Can't wait for you to plug into this conversation, so grab a cup of teaâď¸ and enjoy the episode! For more resources related to todayâs episode and others, visit www.topschoolsadmissions.com Enjoy the episode for expert advice to guide your school selection journey. Visit www.topschoolsadmissions.com for more on Tudor Hall, and to enquire via our exclusive link. Start exploring top UK schools today! Chapter Lists 00:00 Introduction and Background 00:27 The Importance of Strategic Frameworks in Education 02:30 Decision Making in High-Stakes Environments 05:12 The Role of Academic Strategy Compass 07:30 Understanding Student Performance and Pressure 10:56 Long-Term Thinking in Education 13:35 Misaligned Incentives in Education 15:43 The Role of Personal Branding in Admissions 18:21 Navigating University Admissions 20:50 The Importance of Early Preparation 23:28 Partnering with Schools for Better Outcomes 25:30 Navigating Educational Frameworks 27:03 Building Academic Foundations for Future Success 28:41 The Role of Parental Expectations in Education 30:43 Understanding Confidence in Academic Settings 31:42 Managing Anxiety and Pressure in Education 33:46 The Journey of Writing a Book on Academic Coaching 34:17 Transitioning from Finance to Education 38:55 The Future of Education in an AI-Driven World Follow Destination Education: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/destination_education_uk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@DestinationEducationUK Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/destination_education_uk LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/destinationeducationUk Website: www.topschoolsadmissions.com The Destination Education UK podcast is your ultimate guide to navigating the exciting, sometimes overwhelming journey of studying in the UK. Hosted by Ruth Bennyâ education expert and parent with firsthand experience raising children educated in Hong Kong and the United Kingdomâthis show delivers insights, expert tips, inspiration and practical strategies for parents and students in, or considering the UK education system. If you're a parent on this journeyâstart here. Follow along, and let's take the stress out of school admissions together. Watch our FREE Masterclass on UK Boarding Schools and request a non-obligatory consultation here: https://www.topschoolsadmissions.com/UKBoardingSchools/ Subscribe to our channel here: Listen to Destination Education Podcast đ§ New episodes twice a month! Spotify link: https://open.spotify.com/show/0UTWe6azTalKupYEwrtET0?si=3d898b7e7c094fec Apple podcasts link: https://podcasts.apple.com/hk/podcast/destination-education-uk/id1820594988 Get help to find the perfect fit UK school for your child : www.topschoolsadmissions.com đ Subscribe now and hit the bell to catch every episode! Join us to learn, grow, and unlock the secrets of UK education. Visit www.TopSchoolsAdmissions.com for personalized guidance on your school selection journey. đ Connect with us: https://www.topschoolsadmissions.com/deuk
