SINT MAARTEN (POND ISLAND) - The University of St. Martin (USM) recently welcomed twelve (12) third-form students and teachers from the Gwendoline van Putten School on St. Eustatius for an educational campus visit designed to introduce students to higher education opportunities and encourage early academic planning.
The visit began with an interactive presentation by USM Head of Marketing, Shobhan Giterson, who introduced students to the university's academic programs, student support services, and the many pathways available to help them achieve their educational and career aspirations.
Although the students are only in the third form, they actively participated in discussions about their future ambitions and the importance of preparing early for life after secondary school.
During the presentation, Giterson shared one of the principles she encourages every student to adopt: the "5 Ps" – Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance. She emphasized that successful educational journeys begin long before graduation and encouraged students to start thinking now about the careers they wish to pursue and the steps needed to achieve those goals.
"Planning for your future doesn't begin in your final year of high school, it begins the moment you start thinking about your dreams," Giterson shared with the students. "USM provides students with a strong academic foundation and serves as a stepping stone for those who wish to continue climbing the academic ladder, whether they choose to pursue an associate degree, a bachelor's degree, or further studies abroad."
Following the presentation, students participated in a guided campus tour where they visited classrooms, learning spaces, and student facilities while meeting members of the USM faculty and staff.
The visit provided students with a firsthand look at university life and the opportunities available to them after completing secondary school. USM extends its sincere appreciation to Ms. Wanda Flores, the teachers, and the team from the Gwendoline van Putten School for choosing the University of St. Martin as part of the students' educational experience.
The university looks forward to continuing its partnership with schools across the region to inspire young people to pursue higher education and lifelong learning.
Applications for the August 2026 intake are currently being accepted. Prospective students interested in learning more about USM's academic programs are encouraged to visit www.usm.sx or contact the Admissions Office at +1 (721) 542-5171 or via WhatsApp at +1 (721) 523-4876 (523-4USM).
