Azizbek Asamov
Counsellor
Presidential School in Termez, Uzbekistan

What drew you to the world of college admission counseling?
I was drawn to college admission counseling because I deeply believe in the transformative power of education. Before becoming a school counselor, I worked as an educator and IELTS instructor at the Presidential School in Termez. During that time, I experienced firsthand the challenges students face when planning their futures and the crucial importance of supporting them in achieving their goals. Helping my students attain their desired scores in IELTS not only motivated me but also demonstrated the impact effective guidance can have on their academic journeys. This success led the school administration to recognize my potential, resulting in my promotion to the position of school counselor.

In this new role, I wanted to play a crucial part in guiding students through the often-overwhelming maze of college admissions, helping them to identify their strengths and passions while providing the necessary support to overcome obstacles. The ability to assist young individuals in making informed decisions that shape their academic and career paths is both an honor and a motivating force in my work.

What is your favorite part of the job?
My favorite part of being a school counselor are the personal connections I build with students. I cherish the moments when I can witness a student’s face light up after being accepted into their desired college or successfully completing an important project. Each success story reinforces my commitment to this vocation. I am also eager to learn new things related to school counseling and to engage in innovative projects with my students. For example, last year, my students and I undertook a remarkable project and applied for the Zayed Sustainability Prize, where we were thrilled to be selected as finalists. This experience not only empowered my students but also enriched our school community. Additionally, collaborating with teachers and parents to create a supportive environment that encourages student achievement is something I deeply enjoy. Being part of their journey and watching them grow academically, socially, and emotionally is incredibly fulfilling, especially when I see my students receive acceptance letters from top universities.

I have also taken immense pride in watching my school grow in prestige and expand its offerings for students. Presidential School in Termez, a flagship institution within the Presidential Schools of Uzbekistan group, is dedicated to nurturing gifted and talented students from the Surkhandarya region of Uzbekistan. Established in November 2021, the school offers a unique hybrid curriculum that combines the British National Curriculum for STEM subjects offered in English and the Uzbekistan National Curriculum for other subjects. With a current enrollment of 165 students aged 11-17 across grades five to 11, Presidential School in Termez fosters an enriching educational environment complemented by a robust extra-curricular program.

The school prioritizes academic excellence, well-being, and global citizenship while preparing students for success in the Pearson (Edexcel) IGCSE and Cambridge AS and A-level examinations. Our state-of-the-art facility not only provides a safe and secure learning environment but also encourages the holistic development of students, enabling them to explore their talents and prepare for further education at prestigious universities worldwide. Amidst continuous improvement and professional development initiatives, the school stands as a beacon of educational progress in Uzbekistan

How has NACAC played a role in your career?
NACAC has significantly influenced my professional development by providing access to a wealth of resources, educational materials, and networking opportunities. Although I joined NACAC just three months ago, I have already gained a considerable amount of knowledge. Through their workshops and conferences, I have learned about evolving trends in college admissions and have acquired best practices from experienced professionals in the field.

Being part of this association has not only refined my skills as a counselor but has also connected me to a broader community of dedicated professionals who share similar goals and challenges. The insights I’ve gained, even in this short time, have deepened my understanding of the counseling landscape. This sense of community and collaboration is invaluable in keeping me motivated and informed, allowing me to better support my students in their educational journeys.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our profession today?
The biggest challenge we face in the field of college admissions counseling is the rapid change and complexity within the admissions landscape. As universities continually adjust their criteria and adopt innovative evaluation methods, it becomes crucial for counselors to stay informed about these changes. Additionally, the increase in competition among students can exacerbate anxiety and pressure, making our role even more critical in providing emotional support. Striking a balance between guiding students to build impressive applications while also encouraging mental well-being is imperative in today’s environment.

When you aren’t working, what do you like to do?
Outside of my professional responsibilities, I enjoy a variety of activities that keep my mind active and provide relaxation. Reading books is a personal passion, as it allows me to explore new ideas and cultures. Playing football not only keeps me physically fit but also helps me engage socially with friends and colleagues. Additionally, I find great joy in learning new languages, which broadens my horizons and enhances my understanding of diverse perspectives. These activities enrich my life and often inspire my work as a counselor.

What five words would you use to describe yourself?
I would describe myself as curious, a life-long learner, dedicated, honest, and knowledgeable.

 

Published Feb. 9, 2026