Inside the Program

Alexia Aasheim

Long Island, N.Y.

I chose school counseling because it is the perfect intersection of three things I have always been passionate about — helping others, being in an academic environment, and learning new things. My experiences working with children, particularly my internship with a middle school guidance counselor and volunteer work at an elementary school, solidified my decision to pursue this path. It is incredibly fulfilling to have a meaningful impact on the everyday lives of adolescents, guiding them through critical transitions. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill because of its accelerated program model, accomplished faculty, and the opportunity to form strong connections within a small cohort and year-long internship. UNC’s strengths-based counseling model resonates with my previous research and experiences, reinforcing my commitment to fostering students’ resilience and growth. The program aligns with my goal of becoming a counselor who advocates for students, nurtures their holistic development, and helps them embrace their unique strengths.

Carissa Albers

Saint Charles, Iowa

I chose school counseling because I’m passionate about building meaningful relationships with students and supporting their academic and social-emotional well-being. I’m especially excited to help improve access to mental health services and see the positive impact this can have on school culture. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill for its accelerated program, strength-based approach, and the opportunity to complete an internship and practicum alongside my coursework. This structure will allow me to apply what I learn as I go, gaining hands-on experience under the guidance of a professional school counselor.

Kaylie Baker 

Heathsville, Va.

I chose school counseling because I come from a family of K-12 educators who have instilled in me the importance of serving and mentoring youth. Growing up, I was witness to the profound impact my family’s guidance had on the success of their students. I am passionate about being a part of that same success to generations of students to come. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill because of the program’s commitment to making effective counseling accessible to rural students. As a very proud recipient of a rural education, I wanted to become a part of a community that prioritizes support for underserved, rural populations.

Cassia Barry

Raleigh, N.C.

I chose school counseling because I am passionate about helping students feel a sense of belonging and develop the skills they need to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. After years of teaching, I realized that my favorite part of the job was building relationships with students and supporting them beyond the classroom. UNC-Chapel Hill stood out to me because of its strong focus on advocacy, equity, and working with diverse student populations. I’m excited to be part of a program that aligns with my passion for supporting multilingual students and families and helping all students feel a sense of belonging at school.

Jon Bockman

Aurora, Ill.

I spent the first half of my career aiming to reduce as much suffering as possible by leading animal advocacy charities and studying mindfulness. Over time I’ve come to realize that the most effective way that I can build a compassionate society is to provide guidance to children, as the perspectives we develop in youth tend to solidify as we grow older. I seek to become a school counselor to help instill positive values and life skills at a crucial time in development, which seems of increasing importance amidst the fast pace and psychological manipulations of modern society. I selected UNC-Chapel Hill because it provides a stellar education from a thoughtful faculty, and because anecdotal reports from students have been overwhelmingly positive.

Lexi Bravo

Greensboro, N.C.

My journey to choosing the school counseling profession stemmed from my teaching experiences during my undergrad. I have witnessed firsthand the critical need for enhanced mental health support within schooling contexts, especially among students with disabilities and other marginalized groups. While teaching would allow me to impact students academically, I have realized my passions lie in additionally providing more individualized support for students’ emotional, social, and mental well-being rather than solely just academic support. With realizing the profound gaps in accessible mental health resources in schools, I wanted to be a part of the solution. UNC’s program stood out to me as the perfect next step in this journey, offering a 14-month accelerated program that I feel aligns with everything I want in furthering my education. I have felt that the program has a genuine investment in student success as they have demonstrated to me through their personalized attention and commitment to addressing my questions and making me feel valued and supported throughout the application and interview process, without even being a part of the program yet. I was also drawn to the cohort style aspect and the small faculty size, promoting stronger connections and more meaningful mentorship opportunities.  Both of which I believe will be critical for support in my development to becoming an effective school counselor.

Lyndsey Conway

Kingsport, Tenn.

I chose school counseling to help empower youth in both their emotional regulation and academic achievements. Every child deserves to have someone rooting for them and know that someone cares for them.  Prioritizing mental health, knowing it’s okay not to be OK, and knowing when to ask for help are values that are very important to me. I wish to help the next generation of students understand the value of caring for their mental health. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill, specifically, for the program’s emphasis on an antiracism framework and training school counselors who are multiculturally competent. Educational equity and advocating for every student, regardless of race, culture, or social class, are values and beliefs that I will strive for when I am a School Counselor.

Paige Gondek

Chapel Hill, N.C.

I am pursuing a career in school counseling because I am passionate about making a difference in children’s lives. Every child deserves to feel seen, celebrated, and supported. As a counselor, I will have the opportunity to help build a school environment where every child has the opportunity to become a confident and successful life-long learner. Although I have been teaching in Spain for the past 3 years, I am a Tarheel at heart and look forward to returning home to Chapel Hill, where I spent my childhood. The School Counseling program at UNC checked all of my boxes. The 14-month cohort-based program, hands-on experience through practicum and internship, and focus on a strength-based approach all made my choice clear. This program will equip me with the skills and knowledge I need to become a great school counselor, and I can’t wait to start my journey!

Isabella Gudino De Grote

Greensboro, N.C.

I chose to pursue school counseling because I have always been passionate about working with children and creating opportunities that help students achieve their academic and emotional goals. I want to be an advocate for education and work toward reducing the disparities that persist in the education system, ensuring that students receive the support they need and deserve. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill because of the invaluable experience I have had within the School of Education. The professors I have learned from have provided me with profound knowledge about education, inspiring my decision to pursue a career in school counseling. I love the Chapel Hill area and wanted to continue my education at my alma mater!

Greta Gullborg

Hartland, Wis.

I chose to pursue school counseling because of the life-long impact that counselors can make in students’ lives. I aspire to create a safe place where students feel genuinely loved, seen, and heard—a place where they can bring any concern and know they’ll be met with understanding and support. The UNC-Chapel Hill counseling program stood out to me because of its strength-based approach, which aligns perfectly with my personal pedagogy of focusing on the whole student rather than defining them by challenges or deficits. I’m drawn to the emphasis on recognizing each child’s unique strengths and potential. Additionally, the program’s cohort model offers a collaborative learning community that supports the environment I hope to create for my future students.

Hunter Hall

New Orleans, La.

I decided to pursue a career in counseling because I enjoy connecting with people and listening to their goals. Growing up, educational and professional expectations were always quite daunting to me. I want to guide others who may feel the same pressures in school, and let them know it’s ok to take the unconventional or unknown path towards your dreams. I am also very passionate to one day work with military veterans and dependents who need help transitioning into the college world. There are so many ways I could be of service, having this experience would put me on the right path to making a difference to someone. I chose UNC because of its distinguished reputation and from the conversations I had with the program staff, who all met me with such enthusiasm and generosity.

Kavasia Heath

Charlotte, N.C.

I chose to pursue school counseling because I am committed to educational advocacy. I believe that competent guidance counseling to disadvantaged students can help mitigate mental health and academic inequities. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill because of the relational nature of its cohort model, the rigor of an accelerated program, and the trauma-informed care that is taught. I am drawn to how mission-driven the program is, and the close guidance that is given by faculty. UNC-Chapel Hill feels like home!

Lauren Hill

Mount Pleasant, S.C.

I chose school counseling because I am passionate about supporting children’s emotional and academic growth. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill because of its strong reputation, the opportunity to complete my degree in just fourteen months, and the connections I can build within North Carolina.

Sabrina Kolls

Durham, N.C.

While I have been teaching children for a long time, I have always valued being an effective support role for them. I am happy in the environment I currently work in but want to bring the same mentality into their school settings which can be a stressful environment for them. I attended UNC-Chapel Hill as an undergraduate and enjoyed the campus and class environment. I also liked how and the quality the instructors taught their classes and wanted to come back to UNC as a graduate.

Xochilth Ortiz

Dalton, Ga.

My personal background and previous work experiences have fueled my desire to pursue a M.Ed. in School Counseling. Working with students has brought so much joy and light in my life, and I want to instill in my students a sense of confidence and resilience—show them that they are infinitely capable of achieving their dreams and aspirations. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill because of its strong focus in serving students from rural, underrepresented backgrounds, which is particularly important to me as a first-generation Mexican-American from an industrial town. I was also drawn to UNC’s unique, 14-month accelerated school counseling program because it would allow me to start my career in a timely manner to effect change in my community through my work as a school counselor.

Isabella Palencia

Manteca, Calif.

I chose school counseling because I want to contribute to creating a safe and welcoming environment for all students and guide their academic and personal growth. I want to contribute to improving students’ access to mental health resources and improving equity in education. I hope to collaborate with students, their families, and teachers to support and advocate for their success, goals, and needs. As someone of Guatemalan and Mexican heritage, I want to expand Hispanic representation in the counseling field and work with students and their families using my background to understand their needs. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill because I admired the program’s values and dedication to the preparation process of the students.

Rayna Pepin

King George, Va.

I chose school counseling because I am passionate about supporting students through both personal and academic challenges. My goal is to create a safe, nurturing environment where they can grow, thrive, and develop the skills needed for lifelong success. Making a meaningful impact on young lives is what motivates me. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill for its accelerated program, which provides the invaluable opportunity to gain hands-on experience through a year-long internship and practicum while completing coursework. The program’s supportive faculty, close-knit cohort, and strong focus on community and inclusivity align with my values. I am excited to be part of a program that fosters both professional growth and meaningful connections.

Taylor Phillips

Rocky Mount, N.C.

I chose to become a school counselor because I believe every young person deserves a positive adult role model and advocate in their life. Many students with ingrained trauma and untreated mental illness lack fundamental resources at home, and sometimes the public school setting is the only place where they receive that kind of support. I want to provide the careful attention and listening ear that every young person deserves. I chose to continue my education at UNC Chapel Hill because of my interest in a multiculturally competent, strengths-based approach. The School Counseling faculty members bring so much to the table in terms of passion, dedication, and experience—I couldn’t have chosen a better program.

Chloe Rhodes

Knoxville, Tenn.

I am pursuing a degree in school counseling because I am committed to better understanding and addressing the cultural and systemic disparities that impact students. My goal is to help them navigate these challenges by prioritizing mental health and academic achievement while recognizing how their unique cultural backgrounds influence their academic, career, and social-emotional development. To support the holistic growth of students’ well-being and address key issues in education, I aim not only to advocate alongside students but also to empower them with the tools to become advocates for their own communities. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill because of its unwavering commitment to equitable education and its community of educators dedicated to amplifying students’ voices to ensure their visibility.

Samantha Robinson

Pittsburgh, Pa.

I chose school counseling because I want to help create a safe and understanding place in the school system for every student, especially those who may not have one. In this world too many times children don’t have a cheerleader on their side or a place they can go to understand their big feelings. I hope to provide that for as many students as I can and advocate for the students who may otherwise fall through the cracks. After hearing faculty speak on the values and mission of the program during my interview, I chose UNC-Chapel Hill as it was a near-verbatim match to why I have chosen this profession. I truly believe that UNC will equip me with the skills I need to make a difference in every student’s life and become the counselor I know I was put on this planet to be.

Faith Robisch

Apex, N.C.

I chose to pursue school counseling because I am passionate about helping students reach their full potential—academically, socially, and emotionally. School counselors play a vital role in shaping a student’s educational experience, and I am committed to creating a supportive and positive environment for all students. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill because of my undergraduate experience in the UNC School of Education, I am confident that UNC will fully prepare me to be the best school counselor I can be!

Chasity Taylor

Brooklyn, N.Y.

I chose school counseling because I am passionate about helping youth navigate the challenges of their academic, personal, and social lives. I believe that providing support during these formative years can help students develop the confidence and skills they need to succeed. UNC-Chapel Hill stood out to me because of its outstanding school counseling program and the opportunity to learn from a faculty that is deeply committed to both research and practical application. The university’s strong emphasis on community engagement and its diverse resources make it the ideal place for me to grow both personally and professionally.

Jared Thomas

Burlington, N.C.

I chose the school counseling profession because I am passionate about supporting students so that they feel seen, heard, and truly valued. That’s what ultimately gravitated me towards school counseling—being in a position where I can work together with students, their families, and a great team of professionals to support not just academics, but all parts of their lives. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill’s Master’s program because they care about supporting youth through developing school counselors who use a strength-based and equity-focused approach. I love that the program isn’t just about classroom theory—it also gives you a full-year, hands-on immersive internship that really bridges the gap between what you learn and what you do in real-world settings. The environment of a tight-knit cohort provides a culture for growth and understanding in an encouraging way, and makes me look forward to being a part of something greater than myself.

Maureen Tumey

Graham, N.C.

I chose school counseling because I want all students to have access to every resource and opportunity they need in order to feel safe, learn, and grow. I want to build relationships with students as well as support them academically. My experiences as an ER nurse have helped me see the many needs that children and teenagers have as they make life decisions. As a school counselor, I will be prepared to help students navigate life’s challenges and offer support. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill because of its in-person cohort model, its strengths-based approach to counseling, and its commitment to educational equity. The commitment and passion of the faculty and staff to develop excellent future counselors made UNC the obvious choice for me.

Jamie Adkins 

Hiddenite, N.C.

I chose school counseling because I am dedicated to empowering the next generation through academic, social, and emotional support. As someone from a small rural town in North Carolina, I want to give back to students growing up with similar backgrounds as myself and be a resource for our students. I chose to continue my education at UNC-Chapel Hill because of the accelerated program model, experienced faculty, and the opportunity to build a community within a small group cohort. I instantly noticed the dedication to preparing future school counselors and am excited to continue at my alma mater!

Candace Campbell 

Lumberton, N.C.

As a first-generation Native American college student, that grew up in a low-economy rural area, I have experienced many disadvantages that students in rural areas face. A few of these disadvantages include a lack of educational and mental health resources. This is one of the factors that has inspired me to pursue a career in school counseling. I work hard to motivate students and inform them about the limited resources that are out there, as well as encourage them to make their own. Additionally, I want to demonstrate to students that they can succeed despite the inequities they may encounter. The UNC-Chapel Hill school counseling degree will provide me with the skills necessary to become an understanding school counselor who promotes educational justice and fosters growth across diverse school populations.

Annie Clark 

Santa Barbara, Calif.

I aspire to become a school counselor to be part of a vital support system for students, just as I had in school. I have witnessed in schools how students get treated and dismissed if they are deemed a “bad” or “poor” student early on in their education. As a school counselor, I want to combat the disparities that result from those labels and help students succeed in their education and futures. I chose the school counseling program at UNC-Chapel Hill because I believe the mission and goals the program is rooted in will best help me in my goals of becoming a successful school counselor and change agent in schools.

Julia Dow

Lake Norman, N.C.

I have chosen to pursue school counseling because of my strong desire to form positive relationships with students, support them during struggles in and out of school, and to become a role-model students can depend on. I have always loved working with children, and through my experiences, I have seen how important a positive figure can be on a child’s development and wellbeing. Choosing UNC-Chapel Hill was an easy decision because of the faculty’s warmness towards candidates and passion towards their job as faculty, as well as their own research interests. I believe in this program’s curriculum, and that I will come out fully prepared and confident. Completing my undergraduate here also played a role in this decision, as I have loved being a member of the Chapel Hill community, a student in the School of Education, and a Tar Heel!

Emily Gray 

Basking Ridge, N.J.

Over the years, I discovered how much I love working with children, and wanted to work within education. I have been so very lucky to have developed extraordinary bonds with many of the children I have worked with in various school settings. These are relationships I will cherish forever! After getting to intern with elementary school counselors on two occasions, I discovered my love for the profession and how fulfilling it was to me. My goal is to become a counselor my students will come to with good news, bad news, and everything in between. Beyond supporting individual student needs, I hope to inspire kindness and respect within my school community. I am so excited about the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill program because of the cohort model it uses. The 14-month cohort model allows its students to learn across the classroom, the cohort, and the internship experience. I feel learning with a group of students sharing such a strong desire to go into this field will serve to make us all better counselors. I am very excited to begin this graduate program and to learn more about the school counseling profession.

Indy Hurun Ein 

Jakarta, Indonesia 

I am immensely interested in pursuing school counselling because I would like to build partnerships with school stakeholders to provide a positive environment for students to flourish. More specifically, this program will equip me with the expertise to deal with school bullying issues in Indonesia using students’ positive qualities and resources. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill since its emphasis on the strengths-based school counselling approach aligns perfectly with my prior research experience and future contribution plans.

Emily Kalec 

Dacula, Ga.

I chose school counseling because of my desire to create a safe space for all students and to advocate for their academic, emotional, and social wellbeing. I believe in the impact a committed, knowledgeable, and compassionate school counselor has on the lives of the students they serve. I specifically chose UNC-Chapel Hill because of the strengths-based model the program follows, as well as the holistic experience the year-long internship provides.

Anne Lassiter 

Raleigh, N.C.

I chose school counseling because I believe all students deserve the opportunity to be in a safe educational setting that promotes both academic and social learning. My experience in an elementary school has shown me the importance of equity and I want to learn how to be a better advocate for students who are typically underserved. I chose UNC for the outstanding professors, small cohort model, and rigorous coursework all of which will prepare me to be a successful school counselor.

Carlee Lewis 

Apex, N.C.

I chose school counseling to make a difference in students’ lives and make school a better experience for them. School counselors’ jobs are essential to a positive school environment. I have worked with children for five years and enjoy being able to create bonds with them and lead them to a path of success. I aim to be the school counselor I wish I had. I am excited to continue my journey at UNC-Chapel Hill!

Sisley Luo 

Nanchang, China 

I want to become a school counselor to support students’ development and personal growth. Growing up in China, I have never had experiences with school counselors. I have never imagined that I could have an adult to confide in, and get advice from at school. This drives my passion to provide the guidance I missed. I want to listen to students, offer advice, and support them through challenges. I believe that children need a trusting adult at school. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill because they emphasize multicultural competency and strength-based approach, and its close knitted cohort model. I believe that this program will equip me with the skills to foster students’ development and build relationships with them.

Yoselin Martinez Figueroa 

Durham, N.C.

I chose school counseling because after being a part of a school counseling department, I instantly knew school counseling is what I wanted to focus on, so I advocate for students in need. I want to help students from diverse backgrounds and their families form a relationship with the school while helping amend the stigma attached to being a minority student. Also, as a Latina I want to serve as a staff member students can relate to and communicate with. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill because once you’re a Tar Heel you’re always a Tar Heel and I love the unique cohort model and year-long internship.

Jin Mun 

Orlando, Fla. 

As I encountered many students who struggled with acculturation throughout my three years of teaching in South Korea, I observed that the stress on language barriers and cultural differences eventually influenced school life as well. Due to my similar experiences back in childhood, I realized that I want to support and encourage students who are undergoing acculturation on many levels—intellectually, emotionally, and socially. During the interview at UNC, there was a group discussion about a student who was having difficulties with a financial issue and a language barrier, and that’s when I was thrilled and intrigued by this program at UNC because I realized that the professional faculty could not only help me acquire the knowledge and skills required to be a successful school counselor but also lead me to a variety of perspectives and strategies for helping students with acculturation issues.

Guadalupe Ochoa Castro 

Durham, N.C.

I chose counseling due to my own struggles growing up with school counselors. As a first generation student, it was difficult to navigate the educational world. There were communication struggles with my parents and the school which created difficulties for me when it came to school. I realized how important it is to have representation in a school setting and I vowed that I would be that change I wish I saw growing up. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill specifically because of their focus on diverse school communities. Diversity is something that is really important to me and I believe that this program and school will truly prepare me in my future goals.

Abby Perotti 

Portland, Conn.

After working professionally in various fields of education, I wanted to pursue a career in school counseling so that I can promote holistic wellness in school aged children and help to create a foundation for students’ educational success. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill for its renowned program and commitment to diversity and inclusion, which aligns with my values and career goals. When I first visited the Chapel Hill campus, I felt immediately at home and eager to contribute meaningfully to my new community. I also really liked UNC-Chapel Hill’s close knit cohort model because I am from out of state and wanted to feel connected to fellow students and offer mutual support through the program. I’m excited to become a member of Chapel Hill’s vibrant community and to support students with diverse needs and backgrounds to champion their academic and personal achievement.

Taylor Pierce 

Durham, N.C.

I chose school counseling because I realized I wanted to work with kids to help and support them to be the best person that they can be. In high school, I had a wonderful counselor that helped apply for colleges, and also was someone I could confide in. Having a trusted adult in school can sometimes make it better and I would like to be that outlet for students. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill because after reading that there is a focus on rural schools, it moved me to apply. I feel this program will provide me with the quality knowledge I will need to become a great school counselor.

Deirdre Preston 

Durham, N.C.

I chose school counseling because I aspire to support and increase confidence in the lives of young students. I appreciate the value of having adult mentors who make you feel seen and heard, and I hope to be that person for those who may not otherwise have that. Working as a school counselor will allow me to combine my background in psychology with my teaching experience in elementary schools. UNC-Chapel Hill will provide the opportunity to learn from insightful and passionate faculty, with a perspective that seeks to foster students’ strengths.

Rachel Reynolds 

West Jefferson, N.C.

I grew up in a rural area where mental health challenges are common, yet resources are scarce. I quickly picked up on this problem and became passionate about mental health, and knew I wanted to have a career where I could help lessen this inequity one day. I chose school counseling because it combines my passion for mental health with my love of working with kids! I believe that every child deserves to have someone in their corner, and I envision myself being this advocate and safe person for my future students. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill because of the accelerated pace, cohort model, and social justice lens. My time in the School of Education as an undergraduate ultimately solidified my decision, as I knew this program would best prepare me for my future as a school counselor.

Maddison Ridgill 

Greensboro, N.C.

I chose school counseling because of my passion to see students excel in their academics, but also beyond. From a young age, I noticed my love for working in a school and interacting with students. However, in these interactions, I noticed that students did not always feel supported in their education or had things going on outside of the classroom that hindered their education. This led me to become passionate about mental health and helping students foster resilience. This led me to the occupation of counseling. However, I still loved working in a school setting and did not like the idea of students having to go out of their way to find me. I then found school counseling to be the perfect intersection between these two desires. I decided to attend UNC-Chapel Hill largely because of the professors. I went to UNC-Chapel Hill for my undergraduate degree and have had the pleasure to take classes with some of the professors in the school counseling program already. These professors led their classes with empathy, knowledge, and curiosity. In already learning from and growing relationships with some of these professors, I wanted to continue my education with them. With these professors, I know that my education is in good hands. I also chose UNC-Chapel Hill because of the program’s focus on strength-based counseling. Too often students are discouraged because there is only a focus on what they are struggling with. Instead, this program teaches counselors to focus on the strengths that students already have, encourage them in these strengths, and foster growth from there.

Hayley Rosewall 

Elizabeth City, N.C.

I come from a family of educators and have followed that same passion myself. I have worked with children in multiple capacities, but found my path as a counseling intern at the Hill Learning Center. I felt I could empower students while simultaneously advocating for them. As a UNC undergrad, I knew Chapel Hill was the place for me. No other program could compare to the amount of support I’ve received from professors and quality of education at the UNC School of Education.

Katie Self 

Elicott City, Md.

I decided to pursue a master’s in school counseling because I want to provide support and guidance to children in order to help them succeed. I have chosen UNC-Chapel Hill because the mission of the program aligns with the goals that I have for myself as a counselor. I am looking forward to learning how to effectively promote the development of students and promote educational equity within schools.

Isra Siddiqui 

Raleigh, N.C.

My decision to pursue a Master of Education in School Counseling was driven by my desire to comprehend students within their unique developmental contexts and to empower them to the best of my abilities. I am dedicated to acquiring the skills necessary to assist individuals in overcoming various challenges by merging my theoretical understanding with practical implementation. The accelerated nature of UNC’s program appealed to me, offering the opportunity to immerse myself in school counseling theories and immediately apply them. I eagerly anticipate contributing to an institution dedicated to embracing diversity and aspire to contribute to the education of future counselors, drawing from my own experiences and identity.

Kailey Thompson 

Reedsburg, Wis.

I have decided to pursue a career in school counseling so I can continue to make meaningful connections with the students I work with while helping them solve and grow through the problems they face. I am passionate about creating a safe environment in which all students feel comfortable and heard. I chose UNC-Chapel Hill’s School Counseling program because of the strong support system embedded within the program. Between the tight-knit cohort, dedicated faculty, and site supervisors, I knew I would be supported and prepared throughout my journey of becoming a school counselor.

Chau Trieu 

Greensboro, N.C.

I chose school counseling because I would like to help break the stigma in mental health. Mental health is a taboo topic, especially among students of color. I want to make a difference in students’ lives so that they are not afraid to speak about their emotions, thoughts, and anything they want to discuss with me regardless of their cultural background. I want to help provide support and help their emotional, social, and personal development while exploring their strengths and career goals. I chose UNC because the program has multiple attributes that make it stand out to me, such as supportive staff/faculty, diversity, advocacy, and interdisciplinary collaboration with other departments. The innovation UNC includes in its teaching and learning helps create new perspectives and experiences that help enrich students’ academic careers. Not to mention how welcoming and passionate the faculty was, I knew UNC was the school for me.

Leah Weaver 

Goldsboro, N.C.

Through my diverse positions in the education field, my mission has remained the same- helping students. After working alongside school counselors as an admissions counselor, I knew this would be the right path. I chose UNC because of their racial framework class guide, cohort classes, and their commitment to preparing counselors to be advocates in their school.

Anna Weinstein 

Pittsburgh, Penn.

I chose school counseling because I wanted to pursue a career that I would find joy and fulfillment in. I enjoy helping others, and I look forward to being able to make a difference in the lives of students. I am passionate about education and that everyone should have a support system. I chose the UNC program because I found the application and interview process to be very effective and organized. I also spoke with faculty, who were prompt to answer questions and show support.