Overview
Designed specifically for high school counselors and advisors, this program provides the knowledge, tools, and practical strategies needed to effectively guide students through an increasingly complex postsecondary landscape.
Whether supporting pathways to college, trade school, or other opportunities, participants will gain actionable insights into global admissions trends, ethical and culturally responsive advising, financial access, and the evolving role of AI in student support. With a focus on real-world application, the program culminates in a capstone project that addresses a pressing advising challenge from their own school or community—ensuring immediate relevance and impact.
About the Program
By the end of this program, participants will be able to:
- Assess trends and institutional frameworks (including rankings, policy shifts, and measures of excellence) that shape student and family decision-making across higher education, trade schools, and other postsecondary pathways.
- Explore ethical frameworks and cultural awareness to advising practices, balancing student-centered guidance with the expectations of parents, schools, and communities.
- Evaluate cases focused on holistic admissions processes, including institutional priorities, to strengthen advising strategies and demystify admissions outcomes for students and families.
- Identify best practices in assisting students when navigating financial aid, scholarships, and funding opportunities, with particular attention to students from low-income or first-generation backgrounds.
- Investigate the role of artificial intelligence in counseling and advising, identifying opportunities and challenges while modeling responsible and equitable use of emerging tools.
- Identify a problem of practice within that addresses a real advising challenge in your school or community, demonstrating the ability to translate program learning into practical action.
Spring 2026
| Sessions Dates | Times |
|---|---|
| March 24, 2026 | 7:00-9:00 p.m. (ET) |
| March 31, 2026 | 7:00-9:00 p.m. (ET) |
| April 7, 2026 | 7:00-9:00 p.m. (ET) |
| April 14, 2026 | 7:00-9:00 p.m. (ET) |
| April 21, 2026 | 7:00-9:00 p.m. (ET) |
| April 28, 2026 | 7:00-9:00 p.m. (ET) |
| May 5, 2026 | 7:00-9:00 p.m. (ET) |
| May 12, 2026 | 7:00-9:00 p.m. (ET) |
| May 19, 2026 | 7:00-9:00 p.m. (ET) |
| May 26, 2026 | 7:00-9:00 p.m. (ET) |
| PLEASE NOTE: If you are a US public school counselor or advisor hoping to be reimbursed by your school or district, please reach out to ProfessionalLearning@gse.upenn.edu before registering to receive a special registration code. |
Take the Next Step
Simply click the Register Now button to create an account and submit an application. Or if you need more information to make an informed decision we encourage you to click Request Information.
Questions?
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