MEET US

Ms Junita Devi

Proud ECG counsellor

EMAIL: junita@hci.edu.sg 

CONSULT: https://hciecg2.youcanbook.me/ 

My education and career journey has taken many twists and turns and it’s been an interesting and fulfilling experience. I left Singapore after my O levels to pursue a Foundation Year and Business degree majoring in Marketing and Management in Australia. My first job was in Tourism Marketing but I realised that I didn’t quite enjoy being in the industry. Something felt like it was missing. A key part of me felt untapped and I quickly became very unhappy. I am not a good “sufferer” so.. I quit. I volunteered my time instead while job hunting (it was during the 2009 economic recession so not good timing also) and that gave me an idea of what I enjoyed doing - interacting with different people, nurturing and providing guidance to youths. 

By fate, I came across an ad on a job search website looking for individuals who had studied overseas and  keen to share this information and experience with others. I joined an Education Agent and visited various schools in Singapore both local and international to give talks on studying overseas. I visited HCI twice to deliver talks to parents in the auditorium. Again, by fate (and also luck, networking, making a good impression, right skills), I heard about an opening in HCI and here I am today (still). Fast forward 10 years later at HCI, I’ve visited universities in Abu Dhabi, Melbourne, US and UK. I’ve also spoken at local and overseas conferences on the topics of ‘Setting up a Counselling Office’, ‘Singapore Education Landscape’’ and ‘How to Maintain Zen in the world of Counselling’. 

What’s most fulfilling for me is connecting with people, really listening in, getting to know you as a person, helping students figure out suitable university or career options and motivating students to press on even when everything seems uncertain or daunting. 

I've visited schools in

• Abu Dhabi: NYU Abu Dhabi

• Australia: Monash University Melbourne

• UK: University of Cambridge

• US: Barnard College, Brown University, Bryn Mawr, Caltech, Claremont College, Columbia, Cooper Union, Georgetown, Harvard, Harvey Mudd, Haverford College, MIT, NYU, Pitzer College, Pomona College, Princeton University, Scripps College, Stanford, Swarthmore College, Tufts University, U Chicago, U Michigan, UC Berkeley, UCLA, University of Pennsylvania, Yale University

Ms Khadija Attarwala

Happy ECG counsellor

EMAIL: khadija@hci.edu.sg

CONSULT: https://ecg-khadija.youcanbook.me/

I am thrilled to be a part of the vibrant community of students, educators, and parents at HCI. With a deep passion for helping individuals discover their true potential and pursue fulfilling academic and career paths, I bring extensive experience and a dedicated approach to my role as your Education and Career Guidance Counsellor.

I have had the privilege of working as a university guidance counsellor at an international school, where I gathered extensive knowledge in advising students with their overseas university applications. This experience has equipped me with a deep understanding of the intricacies of the application process and the ability to provide valuable guidance to students like you.

My educational journey includes a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Career and Developmental Counselling. Additionally, I have worked as a Special Education Needs Coordinator in Singapore, providing tailored support to students with diverse learning needs During my time at my initial employment as a Remedial Educator, I found solace in the immediate comfort brought about by the warm smiles of the young children. They imparted valuable lessons in patience and unwavering resolve. It was through this experience that I discovered my true passion for working with children and adolescents.

Furthermore, I have served as a counselling psychologist at a leading hospital in India, where I had the opportunity to work closely with children and youth. Additionally, my role as a Helpline Counselor allowed me to provide career advice, counseling, and support to young adults. These experiences have honed my ability to provide empathetic guidance to individuals from diverse backgrounds.

I am eager to contribute to the advancement of your career path. Hope to see you around.