Student Opportunities

Cabell Anderson

Raleigh, NC

I chose school counseling because I am motivated to support students’ academic, social, and emotional development during formative years of their lives. With my educational background in psychology, youth development, and practical experience interacting with adolescents, I have witnessed firsthand how having access to regular, compassionate support in schools can have a big impact on students’ future and general well-being. I chose UNC Chapel Hill because of its nationally ranked, CACREP-accredited school counseling program and its strong emphasis on a strength-based, social justice-oriented approach. The program’s small cohort size and the faculty’s clear commitment to student development and mentoring also caught my attention.

Natalie Belval

Chapel Hill, NC

At the heart of anything that a school counselor does is the desire to help each individual child based on their unique circumstances and strengths. I chose the school counseling program because it is a pathway for me to foster the social and emotional components that children experience as they embark upon their academic journeys. The school counseling program at UNC Chapel Hill stands out from others because the staff have created an accelerated, immersive program with a strong support system that truly prepares students for a career in the field. The program’s emphasis on a strengths-based approach solidified my choice of UNC. Additionally, the program is structured as a cohort, which allows for peer learning as well as a sense of community. Most of all, I found that after meeting current students and staff, it is a warm and welcoming atmosphere filled with people who care.

Grace Braselton

Grand Rapids, MI

I chose school counseling because I am passionate about supporting students academically, emotionally, and socially during some of the most formative years of their lives. I want to be someone students can trust for guidance, advocacy, and encouragement. I chose the program and UNC Chapel Hill because of its accelerated and rigorous structure along with the program’s strong reputation and emphasis on hands-on experience. Additionally, the opportunity to move to and live in North Carolina has been a personal dream of mine, making UNC Chapel Hill the ideal place for my academic and personal growth!

Caroline Bumgarner

Winston-Salem, NC

I chose school counseling because I am deeply committed to being a consistent, supportive presence in students’ lives – someone who shows up, advocates for them, and walks alongside them throughout their education. I believe school counselors play a vital role not only in academic success but also in helping students build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. I chose UNC Chapel Hill because of its strong commitment to public education in North Carolina, a state where I am passionate about making a meaningful difference. Through this program, I am eager to deepen my knowledge through coursework and hands-on experience in a yearlong school-based internship that will prepare me to serve students well. During my interview, I was impressed by the professors’ genuine warmth, passion, and clear commitment to developing us as both skilled counselors and individuals. I am truly honored and excited to begin this next chapter as part of the 2026–2027 School Counseling M.Ed. cohort.

Will Chorpenning

Martinsburg, WV

I chose school counseling because I find meaningful purpose in providing time, intention, and advocacy to developing youth. Ultimately, I hope to provide support to all children in any way I possibly can, and this particular field allows me to utilize my strengths in pursuit of that goal. I chose UNC Chapel Hill because of the enriched diversity showcased within the program. The amazing work showcased by each member of the Faculty is admirable and is aligned with my personal values. I look forward to growing under their tutelage and guidance into the field of school counseling.

Abby Couture

Sugar Land, TX

Put simply, I chose a career in school counseling to make the world a kinder, more nutritious place. In today’s society, young people hold a unique position as they face challenges no other generation has tackled; with this unique position, progress must follow to ensure young people feel boundless support. As I pursue my next chapter leading with love first, I find purpose in being present with others, through celebration, grief, and everything in between. In today’s world, love, care, and connection are all resistance to the constant temptation of isolation, and UNC’s program reminded me of why resistance centered within love will always bind us together. UNC’s grounding philosophies of dismantling systemic injustice, prioritizing individualized care, and emphasizing holistic humanity made this program a clear fit for the counselor, and person, I hope to become.

Kaden Heldt

Berkey, OH

I chose to pursue a masters degree in school counseling because of my passion for helping others, my appreciation for working with students, and my belief in a better future. I am very excited to begin my studies, and especially to get to work on my practicum and internship. I chose UNC Chapel Hill for the School Counseling program’s accelerated format, the University’s academic prestige, and the wonderful School Counseling program professors and staff. I knew that Chapel Hill would be the place for me when I applied, and I am very grateful and excited for the opportunity ahead.

Avery Humphries

Cliffside, NC

I am pursuing school counseling because I want to be a source of support for students as they move through adolescence and different adversities. I am also very passionate about helping every student have the opportunity to pursue education despite their background or circumstances. I chose the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s School Counseling Master’s program because of the cohort model and the accelerated aspect of the curriculum. I also cherished my undergraduate years in the UNC-CH School of Education and am thrilled to continue being part of this community that is full of esteemed and dedicated faculty.

Al Kulikowski

Garner, NC

I chose school counseling because my academic training in psychology and sociology, along with my professional experience working with adolescents in school settings and residential treatment, showed me how deeply students’ emotional wellbeing and systemic inequities shape their ability to succeed in school. I want to be a school counselor who creates a safe, affirming space where students feel seen, capable, and supported. I chose the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill because of its strength-based counseling model and commitment to equity, which align closely with my goal of addressing systemic barriers while empowering students through social-emotional learning and compassionate, justice-oriented practice.

Joanna Locke

Philadelphia, PA

For why I chose school counseling, I knew I wanted to work with children, but I didn’t exactly know in what capacity. My time spent working as a paraprofessional made me realize how much I enjoyed working in a school setting, but I knew that being a head teacher was not the role for me. I thought about becoming a school psychologist, but eye-opening conversations with people in the field made me realize that testing and writing reports on students was not how I envisioned my future. But then I was fortunate enough to have a conversation with the school counselor at my current job, and everything just clicked. Everything she was saying about what her job entailed made me feel like I could do that too. I wanted to do it too.

When looking into possible graduate programs, I knew I wanted to take this opportunity to explore a new area. I had heard wonderful things about UNC: Chapel Hill from people who had either gone to UNC themselves or who had lived in the area, and I thought it would be a great place to try out! But one factor that really drew me to the School Counseling program at UNC was the fact that it was a cohort-style setup. On top of exploring a new area, I also wanted to use grad school to meet new people. I thought being a part of a cohort would make this step a little bit easier as we’d all be moving through the program together. I also appreciated the fact that most classes would take place during regular school hours rather than having them in the evening, and being guaranteed a year-long practicum/internship in a school was also a big perk!

Melia Madyun

Charlotte, NC

I’ve chosen school counseling because I want to help students identify their strengths, build resilience, and navigate the systemic barriers that often hinder their growth. Having taught in Title I schools, I have seen firsthand the necessity of community-centered wellness and proactive prevention. I want to transition into a role where I can maintain deep, ongoing relationships with students, helping them realize they do not have to face their challenges alone, and realize the capabilities that already exists within them. UNC’s program aligns perfectly with this vision through its intentional focus on equity, systemic analysis, and leadership to support all students. These values mirror my own commitment to underserved youth, and I am eager to leverage UNC’s training to create empowering programs specifically within the middle school setting.

Adrian Malone

Upper Sandusky, OH

I chose to pursue a career in school counseling because I feel called to help students flourish through consistent, compassionate, and individualized support! My faith and experiences have shaped a desire to serve as a proactive advocate, building meaningful relationships that help students feel seen, supported, and valued within school and community settings. I was drawn to UNC Chapel Hill’s School Counseling program for its strong commitment to student well-being, close cohort model, and immersive training that prepares graduates to feel confident and equipped as new school counseling professionals!

Madeline Manning

Greenville, SC

School counseling is the intersection of every career path I have ever imagined myself in. It allows me to combine my intellectual interest in child development and psychology with my passion for serving children and families. Some of my most rewarding experiences have been working with students and alongside teachers, staff, and families in the school setting. I am eager to be a small piece of the community that a school can be, and UNC’s expedited program allows me to serve in this role without delay. Further, I chose UNC specially because of their willingness to confront with grace and wisdom, through a social justice lens, the difficult realities that exist within today’s society and, by extension, our schools.

Samy Mendoza

Faison, NC

I chose to pursue School Counseling to bridge the gap of mental health resources to families and their students. School counselors are there for more than just schedule changes, which can be surprising to most students. This is where I plan to end the stigma surrounding mental health in school settings and ensure every student has a self-care plan. I chose UNC Chapel Hill due to the accelerated program model. The accelerated program model ensures I can make an impact at schools in rural communities that need more immediate support.

Naomi Rader

Richmond, VA

I am pursuing a career in school counseling because I am passionate about making a difference in children’s lives by supporting their academic, social, and emotional needs. My background in child-centered education inspires me to advocate for children’s individual needs and to work to remove barriers to their success. UNC’s program stood out to me for its emphasis on human-centered, strength-based counseling. Additionally, I believe the program’s balance of coursework and a year-long internship will prepare me to be a well-rounded and informed school counselor.

Jordan Roberts

Green Forest, AR

My experiences growing up in rural Arkansas showed me that for many students, challenges begin with everyday barriers like transportation, food security, and internet access. Thanks to engaged teachers and counselors in my life, I was able to rise above these challenges. Becoming a school counselor is a full-circle moment where I return to the types of communities that shaped me, equipped with the tools to make a difference. I chose UNC because the School Counseling program, with their emphasis on social justice and strengths-based counseling, will enable me to ensure children who are most at risk not only achieve academically, but also leave school with a true belief in themselves and their abilities.

Ava Schmidt

Louisville, KY

I chose to pursue school counseling because as an educator, I have seen firsthand the unique and vital role school counselors play in supporting diverse student populations. Through my experiences working with a wide range of learners, I realized I wanted to take on a more intentional, student-centered role within a middle school setting. Additionally, my own experiences as an adolescent further reinforced my desire to pursue school counseling. Specifically, the impact that my school counselor had on me as an adolescent, in which she provided emotional support throughout my academic journey.  I chose the M.Ed. in School Counseling program at UNC Chapel Hill specifically because of its emphasis on immersive fieldwork and strength-based student advocacy. The program’s commitment to experiential learning aligns with my interests of strength-based student development and hands-on experience. I am excited to continue my academic journey at UNC Chapel Hill and to build the skills necessary to advocate effectively for all students.

Amelia Scott

Ellsworth, PA

I chose to study School Counseling after I did an internship at a local elementary school, and spent a few months shadowing their counselor. I really admired how much positive change she was able to make in the school as a whole along with how much she helped each individual student that came to her. This inspired me to do the same, and enter the field of School Counseling. I chose to go to UNC Chapel hill because I could see that the staff really cared about not only their profession, but also about providing as many beneficial opportunities and lessons to their students as possible.

Emily Shermer

Miami, FL

Choosing UNC-CH was the easiest yes in my life. My undergraduate experiences through cohort style learning showed me the importance of cohort communities and support within my academic career. Additionally, the rigorous course load in a fast-paced environment keeps me intrigued at all times. My previous experiences within the Oklahoma education system have shown me that I can do more, reach more, and help more by expanding my tool belt into Elementary Counseling. Changing the lives of 20 is amazing, but being a guiding hand in all students’ life is extraordinary.

Dipali Shrivastava

Durham, NC

I chose to pursue school counseling because I want to support students as they navigate fundamental experiences. The school environment allows for an opportunity to observe and develop a deeper contextual understanding. I chose UNC Chapel Hill’s School Counseling M.Ed. for its strengths-based approach and emphasis on collaboration. An environment that encourages these perspectives will support me in becoming the counselor I aspire to be.

Sydney Silver

Denver, CO

I chose to pursue school counseling because I am passionate about supporting students’ growth beyond academics, especially those who may struggle in silence. My background in Special Education has shown me the importance of fostering a welcoming, safe, and supportive environment for all students. I aim to promote classrooms where students develop the skills they need to thrive both academically and personally. UNC Chapel Hill stood out to me for its data-driven, student-centered approach and its commitment to a growth mindset. I am eager to learn from a supportive faculty and community that values high-expectations, continuous growth, and student-oriented support.

Rylie Wallace

Sandy Cross, NC

I chose school counseling because of my desire to serve and support students and their families. I want to help students learn coping skills, build their confidence and self-esteem, and provide them with the tools they need to succeed, whether this be academically, socially, emotionally, or behaviorally. I chose UNC because of its accelerated and fast-paced program that allows me to start my career and, in turn, start making an impact sooner. I also enjoy the cohort style that will allow me to have a support system throughout my 14 months, as well as the focus on making resources more accessible to rural communities!

Kim Yates

Colorado Springs, CO

I chose to pursue school counseling after having the opportunity to teach and mentor youth in various capacities. While those experiences have been incredibly meaningful, I believe the role of a school counselor will allow me to deepen my impact while continuing to grow both professionally and personally. I am drawn to supporting students not only academically, but socially and emotionally during formative years of development. I chose UNC Chapel Hill because I believe it is the program that will prepare me most thoroughly for this responsibility. Although I recognize the accelerated nature of the program will bring challenges, I view that rigor as an opportunity to push myself, expand my skillset, and grow into the most competent and confident professional I can be.

Alexia Aasheim

Long Island, NY

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.

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.

Lexi Bravo

Greensboro, NC

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, TN

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, NC

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, NC

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, WI

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.

Kavasia Heath

Charlotte, NC

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, SC

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, NC

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, CA

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, NC

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.

Jared Thomas

Burlington, NC

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, NC

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.