UNITED LISBON EDUCATION HUB

Nickeisha Thomas

Unlocking the Possibilities

Nickeisha Thomas
Meet Nickeisha Thomas, the Director of University and Career Counselling at United Lisbon International School (ULIS). With 14 years of teaching experience in countries including the USA, Qatar, and Portugal, Nickeisha brings a wealth of knowledge and a multicultural perspective to her role. Her educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism & Political Science and a Master’s degree in Public Administration. Having worked in global higher education and secondary education, Nickeisha’s passion for education and extensive experience in college admissions make her an invaluable asset in supporting students’ future education goals.

Tell us a bit about your role at ULIS?

As the Director of University and Career Counselling at ULIS, my primary responsibility is to guide and support students in their academic and career journeys. I collaborate with students, parents, and the ULIS community to help students discover their passions and identify suitable higher education pathways. By staying informed about global admissions processes, we ensure our students have the necessary tools and guidance to achieve their academic and personal goals.

United Lisbon International School
United Lisbon International School

Can you tell us about your approach?

My approach to counselling is student-centered and personalized. I believe in building strong relationships with students to understand their unique interests, strengths, and aspirations. Through one-on-one counselling sessions, I provide tailored guidance, helping students explore various academic and career options. I am dedicated to empowering students to make informed decisions and reach their fullest potential.

What is it that attracted you to ULIS & Edu Hub?

ULIS’s innovative and holistic approach to education, commitment to diversity and inclusion, and focus on equipping students with essential 21st-century skills greatly attracted me. The opportunity to collaborate with a multicultural student body and a team of dedicated educators allows for the exchange of diverse perspectives, creating a truly global educational experience. Edu Hub’s emphasis on preparing students for the rapidly changing world aligns perfectly with my own educational philosophy. We have had some brilliant and insightful sessions where our ULIS students have been able to experience an array of different experiences and perspective thanks to being part of Edu Hub. Some notable examples include an exploration into the climate crisis through the eyes of artist Bordalo II; live insights into MBA student projects and the first Tedx here at ULIS all about ‘Breaking Barriers’ held just this June. All this coupled with our partnership with the prestigious Duke’s Education, I believe we are giving our students something truly innovative.

United Lisbon Education playground and sports

How can we help develop the younger generation for a more sustainable and rapidly changing world?

To develop the younger generation for a more sustainable and rapidly changing world, it’s essential to foster a comprehensive educational environment. We can achieve this by encouraging experiential and project-based learning approaches, providing practical application of knowledge. Moreover, integrating 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, collaboration, and communication into the curriculum is crucial. Emphasizing global awareness and cultural competence prepares students to thrive in diverse environments and tackle global challenges effectively.

What is the biggest workplace/skills set trends you are seeing among your students & the broader learning environment?

In the broader learning environment, there is a growing emphasis on 21st-century skills, such as critical thinking and problem-solving. Digital literacy and technology skills are also in high demand as technology continues to play a significant role in various industries. Students are increasingly encouraged to engage in experiential learning, which helps them apply theoretical knowledge in real-world situations. Furthermore, there is a strong focus on promoting diversity and inclusion, preparing students to become empathetic global citizens who can collaborate effectively across cultures.

United Lisbon Education Hub