Counselling activity: ‘Guess Where?’ – a study abroad game
Remember the classic game, ‘Guess Who?’ This counselling version allows students to consider what’s most important to them when choosing a university destination
Alexander Manners
The “Guess Where?” game is designed to introduce high school students to global study destinations through a playful, interactive experience.
Inspired by Hasbro’s Guess Who?, this game challenges students to explore various countries based on real-world criteria that impact study and career decisions, such as language, affordability and career opportunities. It transforms labour-market information into a tangible learning experience for students, allowing them to engage with complex topics in an enjoyable and memorable way.
‘Guess Where?’: how to play
Students pick a card, giving the name of a country. Then they take turns asking “yes” or “no” questions of each other, in an attempt to identify their opponent’s chosen country.
These questions are divided into the following categories: communication, well-being, affordability, proximity and opportunity. For example, in the communication category, students might ask, “Do people in your country have a high level of English proficiency?”
The game uses data from reliable sources, such as the EF English Proficiency Index, the World Happiness Report and the Big Mac Index, to provide insight into the culture, language and standard of living in each country.
Considering best fit
Each question also allows students to think critically about what matters most to them when selecting a study destination. For example:
Communication: students consider the importance of English proficiency in a country and whether they’re excited by the idea of learning a new language.
Well-being: using insights from the World Happiness Report, this category encourages students to think about factors such as work-life balance and mental health, which are key aspects of living abroad.
Affordability: the Big Mac Index helps students understand living costs. It is a playful but informative way to think about budgeting for an international experience.
Proximity: this section prompts students to reflect on the travel distance from their home country, helping them consider the practicalities of staying connected to family and friends.
Opportunity: here, students look at options for post-study work visas, which can provide valuable career experience and help them gauge how long they might be able to stay in a particular country.
Broadening students’ horizons
The game also includes structured reflection questions after each round, which encourage students to discuss their choices and learn from each other. These discussions allow them to discover what is personally important to them – whether they value proximity to home, a vibrant cultural experience or career-building opportunities.
By the end of the game, students have not only learned about various countries but have gained a clearer understanding of their preferences and goals.
Through this game, students start thinking beyond familiar study destinations, broadening their horizons and equipping themselves with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their academic future.
“Guess Where?” was designed solely for educational use, without intent for commercial distribution or copyright infringement.