What I Learned from a Week Immersed in Innovation

Last week was an exciting week of professional learning as I attended the THE-BMI Global International Schools Forum and Workshop in London, a new event. From engaging conversations with college counselors to exploring university campuses and delving into the future of AI, every moment was filled with inspiration. Here I hoped to provide a recap of the week with the hope others will engage in the program in the future.

The Gathering of Extraordinary Minds: The forum brought together 94 exceptional college counselors from around the world. The camaraderie and enthusiasm in the air were palpable as we exchanged ideas and engaged in meaningful discussions. It was truly an honor to be a part of this remarkable group of professionals. Part of the engagement was a sense of normalcy not fully felt since the pandemic, but another part were the many opportunities to talk, exchange ideas, and learn from one another is structured and informal settings. It was a busy week, but it was exhilarating.

Counselor Accreditation Program (CAP): A significant part of the week was dedicated to the inaugural cohort of the BMI-THE Counselor Accreditation (known as the CAP). This program offers an invaluable opportunity for counselors to enhance their professional growth and development. I strongly encourage any counselor seeking personal and professional advancement to explore this program. I had the good fortune of working as a member of the THE-BMI International Advisory Board of working with nine other counselors along with BMI, Times Higher Education, and Common Purpose to assist in the design, construction, and implementation of the program. Throughout the week, the cohort engaged in special modules designed to enhance and evolve the counselors’ skills and awareness within our field. Moving forward, the CAP offers free training online for interested counselors. Take a look!

AI and the Future of College & Careers Counseling: One of the most thought-provoking aspects of the event was the focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and its ethical implications. Engaging in conversations with passionate professionals about the role of AI in counseling provided ample food for thought and encouragement. The future skills required for the evolving work world were also discussed, highlighting the importance of staying ahead in this ever-changing landscape.

Exploring Prominent Universities: During the week, as part of the program, we had the pleasure of visiting several renowned university campuses, including King's College London, LSE, and UCL in London, University College Dublin, City University of Dublin, Trinity College Dublin, University College Cork, and University of Limerick in Ireland, and TIO in Amsterdam. Each institution revealed their unique offerings, and I am eager to share my experiences with my students, as these campuses offer exceptional educational opportunities.

Engaging with Global Universities: Another highlight of the week was the opportunity to interact with representatives from various universities worldwide. From Huron University in Canada and Exeter in the UK to Middlesex University Dubai and Le Cordon Bleu, I had insightful conversations that broadened my understanding of different educational pathways and opportunities for my students. These exchanges enriched my knowledge and will undoubtedly benefit my students.

Meeting Visionary Leaders: I was fortunate to meet influential leaders during the event, including Huron University President Barry Craig. His commitment and passion for education were inspiring, and I believe any student would thrive under his leadership. International ACAC President Kris Toribio opened the event with powerful and inspiring remarks, setting a positive tone for the days ahead. Additionally, futurist Jim Tudor, founder of the Future Index, shared remarkable insights into the future skills required in the workforce, aligning perfectly with several of the discussions on AI. The CAP cohort also had the amazing opportunities to workshop with Liz Sproat, an Executive/Leadership Coach and with significant experience in global leadership roles for superbrands such as Google and Lego, Muloongo Muchelemba, Director of Selection for Rise (a joint initiative by The Rhodes Trust and Schmidt Futures to identify brilliant teens who seek opportunity to serve others for life) Founder of Pan-African news, info & ideas blog, ongolo.com, and Karen Handley, Head of Future Careers at Virgin Media O21 and an Early Careers Industry leader who has created multi-award-winning programmes across apprenticeship, internship and graduate programmes. It was an added bonus to engage with these prominent voices ancillary to our profession as a way to expand our thinking, particularly around the theme of preparing our students for an uncertain future.

The THE-BMI Global International Schools Forum and Workshop was a remarkable event that brought together passionate college counselors and visionary leaders. From engaging discussions to exploring prestigious university campuses, the week was filled with inspiration and new insights. As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of education, embracing AI and staying at the forefront of advancements will be crucial for preparing students to thrive in an unknown future. I am grateful for the opportunities this event provided and look forward to implementing the knowledge gained in my own practice, and I hope these experience will inspire others to engage with the program in the future.

June Checklist & Cheatsheet

Here are the June Checklist and Cheatsheet! The checklist is a monthly resource collecting all of the typical duties and tasks for a college counselor for the month. See the PDF for June here, or read below. Then, the intention of the College Counseling Cheatsheet is to provide a 30-minute (or less) activity each weekday that college counselors can do to improve their counseling practice. Furthermore, the monthly calendar is designed to be uploaded as a CSV file into your Google (or other) calendar so you can get reminders and even move the event to whenever you want within your busy schedule. (Download the Cheatsheet, open your Google Calendar, open Settings, and follow the instructions in the Import/Export tab on the left-hand navigation menu!) Here is the link to the June Cheatsheet.

Take a look, and give me some feedback! Did I miss anything? Do you have any good ideas to share? Any thoughts? Please add them in the comments or email me!

June Checklist"
"Grad Grins and Future Schemes"

During this month, the college counseling office is filled with a mix of excitement and nostalgia, as students and counselors bid farewell to the graduating class. Counselors work with students to finalize their summer plans, such as internships, summer programs, or volunteer experiences. Meanwhile, students are encouraged to reflect on their high school journey and the valuable lessons they have learned, while also looking forward to the next chapter of their lives.

• Celebrate graduating seniors: Organize or attend graduation ceremonies, recognizing the achievements of your grade 12 students and wishing them well in their future endeavors.

• Wrap up end-of-year reports: Finalize and submit reports on college acceptances, scholarships, and other notable achievements to school administration and the community.

• Plan summer check-ins: Schedule periodic check-ins with students participating in summer enrichment programs, internships, or job opportunities to monitor their progress. Or don’t! But make your expectations clear!

• Continue supporting waitlisted seniors: Provide guidance and support for grade 12 students still awaiting final decisions from colleges on their waitlist.

• Reflect on the past school year: Analyze the successes and challenges of your counseling program, identifying areas for improvement or expansion.

• Begin preparations for college fairs: Research and plan for upcoming college fairs in the fall, contacting college representatives and organizing logistics.

• Encourage grade 11 students to work on college essays: Share tips and resources to help students brainstorm, draft, and revise their personal statements over the summer.

• Monitor summer test dates: Ensure that students registered for summer SAT/ACT test dates are aware of their testing locations and any necessary preparation.

• Create a fall event calendar: Develop a schedule of events and activities for the upcoming school year, such as college visits, workshops, and information sessions.

• Review curriculum offerings: Evaluate your school's course offerings and ensure that students have access to a diverse range of classes that meet college admissions requirements. This may also include updating your NCAA information for the Clearinghouse.

• Develop counseling resources: Create or update handouts, presentations, and other materials for student and parent meetings.

• Plan for grade 9 & new student orientation: Organize activities and informational sessions to welcome incoming grade 9 students and transfer students and introduce them to the college planning process.

• Coordinate with school staff: Meet with teachers, administrators, and other staff members to discuss upcoming events, changes in school policy, and strategies for student success.

• Prepare for the next application cycle: Review grade 11 students' progress in their college search and application process, and develop action plans for the upcoming school year.

• Set goals for the upcoming year: Establish objectives and benchmarks for your counseling program, based on data and feedback from the previous year.

• Recharge and rejuvenate: Take some time for yourself to rest and recharge before the start of the next school year, ensuring that you are prepared and energized to support your students.

• Organize student files: Ensure that all student records are up to date, including transcripts, test scores, and recommendation letters.

• Express gratitude: Thank your colleagues, teachers, and school staff for their support and collaboration throughout the year, and wish your students well as they move on to the next phase of their educational journey.

Again, if you have any ideas or thoughts, please put them in the comments below or email me!

CGN: "Writing Letters of Recommendation with AI"

This past week, on Wednesday, May 24, I had the pleasure of delivering a Facebook Live exhibition for the College Guidance Network on some tools to use ChatGPT to assist in the writing of college counselor letters of recommendation. In all, it was a lively conversation with a lot of conversation stemming from it.

You can see the link to the recording and to the shared resources below:

• Recording: https://www.library.collegeguidancenetwork.com/library/resources/video/e460d430-ef68-4087-abfd-7b6f95e97a40

• Companion Resource: https://www.library.collegeguidancenetwork.com/library/resources/pdf/eb0fdd87-95a1-4615-a88d-f07c9318fad2

CC as Leadership: The Essential Tensions of College Counseling

The terrain of leadership is marked by inherent tensions, complexities, and trade-offs. A compelling HBR article I recently read explored seven core tensions between “traditional” and “contemporary” leadership styles, and I could not help but notice the uncanny parallel with the supremely nuanced role of college counseling. While this is a perspective I’ve written and presented on in the past, this piece lent additional clout to my sense that college counseling is not just a supportive role but a distinct form of school leadership.

The seven core tensions – expert vs. learner, constant vs. adaptor, tactician vs. visionary, teller vs. listener, power holder vs. power sharer, intuitionist vs. analyst, and perfectionist vs. accelerator – are not just critical but essential to the role of a current, modern college counselor. These tensions illuminate why artificial intelligence, despite its utility, cannot replace the role of a college counselor; it lacks the human touch and contextual awareness that are indispensable for effectively filling the position. 

The Expert v. the Learner

College counselors must have a deep understanding of the college application process. Yet, they should also be open to learning from everyone within the school community – from students' latest challenges to teachers' academic insights, parents' concerns, and alumni experiences. This dual role demands self-awareness and a commitment to lifelong learning, ensuring the guidance provided remains relevant and up-to-date. 

The Constant v. the Adaptor

In the ever-changing landscape of college admissions, counselors must be adaptable and be capable of adjusting their guidance as new information and insights become available. This requires contextual awareness and a commitment to continuous learning, not only from industry but also from feedback and insights of the broader school community.

The Tactician v. the Visionary

Counselors must provide specific guidance while also helping students and their families envision long-term goals. They must work with teachers to understand students' academic strengths and collaborate with administration to align their college counseling strategies with the school's broader vision.

The Teller v. the Listener

Effective communication involves not only providing clear and concise guidance but also listening to the needs and concerns of students, parents, teachers, and administration. By fostering an environment of open communication, counselors can better understand and respond to the diverse needs of the school community.

The Power Holder v. the Power Sharer

As leaders, counselors hold a position of authority, but part of their role also involves empowering others. This includes encouraging students to take ownership of their college search process, involving parents in decision-making, and fostering collaboration among teachers and administration.

The Intuitionist v. the Analyst

Counselors must analyze data and trends to provide informed guidance. Simultaneously, they must trust their intuition, leveraging their understanding of each student's unique strengths and interests, informed by their interactions with teachers, parents, and other community members.

The Perfectionist v. the Accelerator

As adults guiding students through a complex process, counselors might strive for perfection. Yet, they must also encourage students and the broader community to embrace risk-taking and view setbacks as learning opportunities, fostering resilience, confidence, and a growth mindset.

College counseling, with its encompassing reach within the broader school community, is a distinct form of school leadership. It demands the navigation of these seven core tensions, requiring a balance of traditional and emerging leadership skills. This delicate balancing act allows college counselors to offer effective guidance and support to not only students but also the broader school community, aiding them in navigating the complexities of the college admissions process and achieving their shared goals. This perspective elevates the function of college counseling beyond traditional support structures, positioning counselors as distinct leaders within schools. The nuanced management of these seven core tensions underscores the multifaceted nature of this profession and its unique identity within the educational leadership framework. College counseling is, therefore, not merely a subsidiary of the educational process but a distinct and vital form of school leadership that plays a crucial role in shaping the future of our students and fostering a supportive, engaged community. 

Summers: Recharge v. Opportunities

Summer break (June-August) is a crucial time for high school students to rest and recharge in preparation for the upcoming academic year. With college applications and the increasing pressure to excel, students often feel compelled to fill their summers with various activities to boost their resumes. However, prioritizing rest and relaxation during this time may lead to better overall performance during the school year. In this blog post, we'll explore the importance of recharging during summer break, how to balance it with the wide range of summer opportunities available, and provide guidance on how to choose the right program for your interests.

The Misconception of "Momentum"

At the beginning of each school year, especially for seniors, it's common to see some students who appear to be thriving, having seemingly made the most out of their summer break. They seem to have a great deal of momentum and are often perceived as being well-prepared for the year ahead. However, this may not always be the case.

Some students who start the year strong are able to do so because they remained academically engaged throughout the summer. While this may seem like a positive attribute, it often leads to burnout. Many of these students are unable to sustain their momentum, especially when faced with the challenges of rigorous curriculums like the International Baccalaureate (IB). By the end of August, these students may be on the verge of a breakdown, having not allowed themselves sufficient time to rest and recharge during the summer.

The Power of Recharging

In contrast, students who take the time to relax during their summer break may appear a bit sluggish when they return to school. They may struggle to get back into "school mode" initially. However, these students tend to be better equipped to handle the demands and expectations of senior year. By giving themselves time to rest and recharge, they can maintain their energy and focus throughout the academic year.

This is not a one-size-fits-all observation, and each student's experience will differ. However, it is important to recognize the value of recharging during summer break and to encourage students to prioritize their well-being.

Finding the Right Summer Opportunity

While rest and relaxation should be a priority during the summer break, it is still possible to participate in summer programs that align with your interests and passions without compromising your need to recharge. There are countless summer opportunities available, and finding the right one involves reflecting on your academic interests, extracurricular activities, and personal passions. Here are some questions to consider when narrowing down your options:

1. Do you have a skill, passion, or interest that you want to learn more about? (e.g., biology, genetics, gardening, game theory, knitting, scuba diving, women's rights, anything!)

2. Do you want to try something new that you haven't had an opportunity to try yet? (e.g., theater, film, coding, Mandarin, horseback riding, creative writing, etc.)

3. Where do you want to be for the summer? Where can you go to explore multiple interests? (e.g., improving your Italian and visiting college in Europe while attending a summer program in Florence)

4. What kind of setting appeals to you? (e.g., learning inside a classroom, hiking through mountains, doing community service, working with younger students)

Remember that enjoying your summer should be a top priority, no matter which opportunity you choose to pursue. If you are doing what you love, you will find enjoyment in it. Consider programs that push you outside of your comfort zone by interacting with others different from your closest social circles, engaging with material that challenges you, or situating you in an unfamiliar environment. There is much to learn from these experiences! Also, pay special attention to age requirements, as many programs require students to be 16 years old or older to attend residential programs.

In conclusion, high school students should prioritize rest and relaxation during their summer breaks while also considering opportunities that align with their interests and passions. By striking a balance between recharging and engaging in meaningful summer experiences, students can return to school refreshed, energized, and ready to tackle the challenges of the new academic year.

10 Ways to Honor Seniors and Promote College Culture on National Decision Day

National Decision Day, observed annually in the USA and many other places around the world on May 1st, is a time to honor high school seniors for their college acceptances and encourage a positive college-going culture among all students. To make this day memorable, a school-wide celebration can be organized with various engaging activities. Here are 10 ideas for high school college counselors to consider when planning National Decision Day festivities:

1. College T-shirt Day. Invite students and staff to wear their favorite college or university T-shirts to show support for the seniors and promote college pride. Often schools ask the adults to represent their own universities. Some even host faculty college fairs where the faculty man tables to discuss their own college experiences with students. These simple yet effective activities can create a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.

2. College Signing Ceremony. Organize a college signing ceremony where seniors can publicly announce their college decision and sign a banner or poster representing their chosen school. This can serve as an inspiration to underclassmen and create a sense of accomplishment among seniors.

3. College Trivia Contest. Host a college trivia contest where students, especially those of younger grades, can answer questions related to various colleges and universities. This fun and interactive game can educate students about different institutions and increase their interest in higher education.

4. College Wall of Fame. Create a "College Wall of Fame" in a prominent location at school, where seniors can post their acceptance letters or a photo of themselves holding their college's banner. This visual display can motivate younger students to pursue their academic goals and help build a college-going culture.

5. College Decision Day Assembly. Hold an assembly in which seniors, teachers, and alumni share their college experiences and offer valuable advice to younger students. This event can foster a sense of community and provide valuable insights into the college application process.

6. College Fair. Invite representatives from local colleges and universities to participate in a college fair, where students, especially those in grades 9-11, can gather information about various institutions, ask questions, and explore their options for higher education.

7. Mentorship Program. Establish a mentorship program that pairs seniors with underclassmen who share similar college aspirations. This initiative can help create a supportive environment and provide guidance for younger students navigating the college application process.

8. College Decision Day Party. Throw a festive celebration for seniors to commemorate their achievements and college decisions. This can include music, food, games, and decorations representing the various colleges and universities to which students have been accepted. Some schools order cupcakes and ask the seniors to come in to share their decisions while enjoying a treat.

9. Scholarship Announcements. Acknowledge and celebrate students who have earned scholarships by announcing their achievements during the National Decision Day events. This can inspire younger students to pursue their own scholarships and financial aid opportunities.

10. Social Media Campaign. Encourage students to share their college decisions on social media using a dedicated school hashtag. This online campaign can generate excitement about National Decision Day and showcase your school's college-going culture to the wider community.

National Decision Day is an opportunity to celebrate seniors for their accomplishments and foster a college-going culture among all students. By implementing these ideas, high school college counselors can create an engaging and memorable experience for students, while promoting the importance of higher education. While planning and executing a school-wide celebration for National Decision Day can be a rewarding experience, it is essential to be mindful of potential pitfalls. Here are some things to avoid and cautionary tales to guide high school college counselors in organizing a successful event:

1. Avoid Exclusivity and Acknowledge Varied Situations. Ensure that your National Decision Day activities are inclusive and recognize students pursuing different paths, such as trade schools, community colleges, or military service. Additionally, be mindful of students who may not have made a college decision yet due to later application deadlines, gap years, or unsuccessful application processes. Focusing solely on four-year colleges and universities or only celebrating those with confirmed decisions may inadvertently alienate some students and make them feel unwelcome.

2. Be Sensitive to Students' Circumstances. Some students may face financial constraints, family responsibilities, or other factors that prevent them from attending their dream college. Be sensitive to their situations and avoid putting undue pressure on students to conform to a specific college-going narrative.

3. Don't Overemphasize College Rankings. While it can be tempting to focus on prestigious institutions, it's essential to emphasize the importance of finding the right fit for each student rather than merely chasing rankings. Encourage students to explore a variety of colleges and universities that align with their interests and needs.

4. Cautionary Tale: Overshadowing Academics. One high school faced backlash for organizing an elaborate National Decision Day celebration that overshadowed the school's academic achievements. Ensure that your event balances excitement with a focus on academics and the importance of learning.

5. Cautionary Tale: Inadequate Planning. Another school struggled to execute their National Decision Day event due to insufficient planning and coordination with staff and students. To avoid this scenario, start planning early, delegate responsibilities, and communicate effectively with all parties involved.

6. Don't Forget Privacy Concerns. While celebrating seniors' college acceptances, be mindful of students' privacy. Some may not want their college choice or acceptance status publicized. Obtain consent before sharing any student's information or college decision.

7. Avoid Reinforcing Stereotypes. When planning activities or sharing stories about college experiences, be cautious not to perpetuate stereotypes about specific colleges, majors, or career paths. Encourage open-mindedness and provide diverse perspectives to help students make informed decisions.

8. Cautionary Tale: Excessive Spending. One notable school faced criticism for spending an exorbitant amount on their National Decision Day celebration, which many saw as a misuse of funds. Plan a budget and allocate resources wisely to ensure your event is both meaningful and financially responsible.

9. Don't Ignore Mental Health. The college application process can be highly stressful for students. Be mindful of the emotional toll it may take on seniors and avoid exacerbating their anxiety with over-the-top celebrations. Provide resources and support for students who may need assistance in managing stress.

10. Cautionary Tale: Overselling College Life. Yet another school received negative feedback for promoting unrealistic expectations of college life during their National Decision Day event. Be honest and transparent about the challenges and rewards of higher education to help students prepare for their next steps.

Planning a successful National Decision Day celebration requires striking a balance between excitement and sensitivity. By avoiding these pitfalls and learning from cautionary tales, high school college counselors can create a meaningful event that honors seniors' achievements and promotes a positive college-going culture.