Introduction to College Admissions

About this course:

The purpose of this short, intensive course is to introduce potential advisors or counselors, who are either new to the field or are making a career change, to numerous aspects of the college admissions process. During this two-week course, students develop an understanding of key factors such as choosing the “right” college, the application process, financial aid, the impact of standardized test scores and how to communicate with various types of parents and guardians through case study scenarios. We also explore the characteristics of college bound students, guiding students towards a prospective major or career and how to maneuver the emotional and mental health aspects that come with applying to college. In this course, students practice applying their newfound knowledge and skills to real case study examples. Upon completion, students are prepared and have confidence to continue their studies in counseling or pursue advanced topics via enrollment in the full UCLA College Counseling certificate program. The ideal student for this course is an aspiring college advisor, current school counselor, CBO advisor or other professional working in college advisement who seeks to expand their experiential learning of college admissions.