Advise NC at UNCW

What a great way to kick off the school year! Last month was filled with learning, collaboration, and preparing to better support our students.

During week one of summer training we explored college advising best practices, admissions processes, public speaking, leadership, values, and creative ways to engage students throughout the year. We also had opportunities to connect with fellow advisers, share ideas, and build community through team bonding.

Week two was full of networking and creating connections that could lead to larger scale local events or help us work together on Advise NC program goals. We also connected with state partners from CFNC, the UNC system, SparkNC, NC Live, AmeriCorps and more.

Overall, we learned valuable skills to support our students through the college admissions process, career readiness programs, or deciding which military benefits may serve them best in the future. 🎓

Next Step Summer Challenge: Week 6

Paying for college starts long before you submit the FAFSA. This week is all about getting prepared so you’re ready when financial aid applications open. 🎓

Next Step Summer Challenge: Week 4

This week identify who knows you well and can speak to your strengths. Take this step now, and you’ll be ahead when application season begins. 🎓

Next Step Summer Challenge: Week 3

Don’t wait until senior year gets busy. Use this summer to brainstorm ideas, write a rough draft, and begin revising. Your first draft doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to be written. 🎓

Next Step Summer Challenge: Week 2

This week’s goal is to create a college list that works for YOU. The more research you do now, the more confident you’ll feel when applications open this fall. 🎓

One of the the biggest mistakes students make is choosing a Common App essay prompt before they know what story they want to tell. 📝

Instead, think about your experiences, values, challenges, and accomplishments first.

Remember: Admissions officers aren’t looking for the most dramatic story but insight into who you are, what you value, and how you’ve grown.

Which prompt are you considering?✍️

Next Step Summer Challenge: Week 1

Rising seniors, now is the perfect time to get ahead on your college planning!

This week’s challenge focuses on building a strong foundation by creating your Common App and CFNC account.

Goal: Complete at least 80% of your profile. Drop a 🎓 in the comments if you’ve completed Week 1!