TheEleven: Our Juniors Begin College Application Preparation
Last week, juniors from Shanghai American School headed to Qiandaohu for TheEleven, a signature trip at SAS that blends focused college prep with reflection, bonding, and fun. During this weeklong program, students participated in admissions workshops, essay-writing sessions, and activities led by university admissions representatives and the SAS college counseling team. This year’s guests included current admissions officers from Duke University, Northwestern University, University of California - Los Angeles, Washington University in St. Louis, Savannah College of Art and Design, and the University of Sydney, many of whom traveled to China specifically to meet and work with SAS students.
SAS college counselor Ben O’Brien shared, “TheEleven is a distinctive and unique aspect of the SAS college counseling program. The variety of sessions that students can choose between is unparalleled in the international student experience. The inclusion of university admissions officers and their close involvement with students is very special.”
Through mock admissions exercises, students were able to see the process from the other side. Student Jeremy R. reflected, “It broke down the pre-conceived biases I had towards who got in and who didn’t. It really helped me to understand the fact that college admissions officers are trying to find the best in their applicants.”
His brother, Alastair R., added, “To be able to experience it ourselves was a valuable insight into the process that admission officers go through themselves.”
While these activities gave students a break from academic intensity, many still found themselves gaining clarity about the road ahead. Student Mackenzie Z. said, “I feel much more relaxed after TheEleven because I have a better sense of direction in working on my college essays this summer and in the upcoming semester.”
Beyond college prep, students also took part in bonding activities like rock climbing, kayaking, and hiking to connect with classmates in a relaxed setting.
As the Class of 2026 returns to campus for their senior year, they bring with them focus, confidence, and a reminder that their next step is theirs to shape.
