Gulf News Edufair 2025: "Students should explore, not just prepare," says UniHawk COO

In a rapidly evolving world where traditional career paths are no longer the only markers of success, students must shift their mindset from ticking boxes to telling their story. This was the message from Rashmi Menon, Chief Operating Officer, UniHawk, in a compelling presentation titled Roadmap to Higher Education at the Gulf News Edufair, currently underway at the Al Massa Ballroom, H Hotel Dubai, until May 11.

“Preparation is important,” Menon said, “but exploration comes first.”

With a blend of practical advice and personal anecdotes, Menon unpacked what it really takes to stand out in today’s high-stakes admissions arena. From academic achievements and test scores to soft skills, essays and passion projects, every detail matters, but only when it reflects the student’s authentic self.

“Your profile isn’t a checklist. It’s a mirror of who you are,” she emphasised. “Whether you love football or classical dance, there’s a way to tell that story, even if you're applying for computer science or medicine. That individuality is what makes your application memorable.”

A video testimonial from a successful UniHawk student drove home the point. “My counselor Aisha was like the internet, but better,” he said, crediting her with helping him stay on track with deadlines and guiding him through applications that ultimately led to acceptances from Tulane, Virginia Tech, University of Virginia, University of Wisconsin–Madison, UC Irvine, and UC San Diego, his top choice.

Menon believes such outcomes are rooted in one key shift: self-awareness. “Students often start with the question: Which test should I take? But the real question is: What do I want to study? What am I good at? That’s where the journey truly begins.”

She encouraged students to explore both conventional and emerging fields, be it law, business and engineering, or AI, nanotechnology, cybersecurity, product design, and social media strategy. “You don't have to be a swimmer to study marine science,” she said, noting that many fields offer multiple entry points, including lab-based research and hybrid career tracks.

What’s more, Menon urged students to tap into real-world insights by shadowing professionals, doing internships, and even reaching out to experts on LinkedIn and Instagram. “People love talking about their journeys. Interview them. That’s one of the best ways to learn.”

A strong application, she added, isn’t just about grades or even extracurriculars, it's about alignment. That means aligning your passions, strengths, and experiences with your chosen field and the universities you're applying to. “Do your research,” she advised. “Mention a specific professor or lab you’re excited about. Don’t write to UCLA saying it’s great, they know that. Show them why it’s great for you.”

Beyond the technical aspects, Menon reminded the audience that soft skills are increasingly becoming non-negotiables. “Universities can teach you academic content. What they want to see is who you are, your leadership potential, your curiosity, your empathy.”

Her final message was both a caution and a call to action: don’t let poor guidance derail your future. Reflecting on her own experience of being misdirected by a one-size-fits-all psychometric test, Menon said, “I ended up in commerce even though I loved science. I never worked a day in that field. That’s why I do what I do today, so no student has to go through that.”

Gulf News Edufair Dubai 2025 is happening this weekend, May 9-11, at The H Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road — just a few steps from the World Trade Center Metro Station.

Enjoy free valet parking and exclusive gift bags for all attendees. Explore 1,000+ programmes from over 40 top universities and educational institutions, discover global study opportunities, meet career experts, attend seminars by 30+ thought leaders, and unlock exclusive offers and spot admissions — only at Edufair. Register now: https://events.gulfnews.com/GulfNewsEdufair