About the 20 Stories Series
To celebrate 20 years of impact, we're sharing 20 stories from the people who’ve made our journey possible. From past participants to longtime partners, these voices reflect the heart of our program. Each story highlights the voices, experiences, and milestones that shaped our community. This is one of them.
How did you decide to join AdviseVA?
AdviseVA was part of a career fair at UVA-Wise. During my senior year of undergrad, I knew that I wanted to pursue an online Master’s degree. AdviseVA was a perfect segway for me into school counseling where I could get professional experience while having the flexibility to pursue my degree.
What is one memory from your time as an adviser that has stayed with you?
My favorite memories that I have from AdviseVA are from the two financial aid workshops that we held with UVA-Wise, one during each year of my service. Many students had voiced their concerns to me over financial restraints and the ability to attend college. With the great scholarship options that my students were able to receive, many of my students learned that day that they would be able to attend college completely debt-free. This was an amazing moment for each of them as they realized they would be able to focus on their education and their futures rather than how they would pay for the investment they were making in themselves. Other great memories come from the times I was able to spend with fellow advisers throughout my service at AdviseVA. Specifically, the Pre-Service Adviser team from 2022 won a scavenger hunt that was set up for us all around the National Mall in Washington, DC. I shared many great memories with a lot of wonderful people in AdviseVA that will forever hold a special place in my heart.
What are you up to now, and how did your time as an adviser prepare you for life after your service? (Both personally and professionally)
My time at AdviseVA prepared me with valuable skills and insights that have helped to prepare me both personally and professionally as a school counselor. I guided students through the college application process, helped them explore career options, and provided tailored advice for their post-graduation plans. This required strong communication, active listening, and empathy—skills that are equally essential when supporting students in their emotional, academic, and personal growth as a counselor. Additionally, I developed a deeper understanding of the challenges students face, such as navigating transitions and managing stress, which helps me offer more effective guidance and foster stronger relationships with students and their families. On a personal level, the role honed my organizational and problem-solving abilities, helping me balance multiple priorities and remain adaptable in a fast-paced environment, qualities that continue to serve me well in my counseling career.
What is something you were proud to have accomplished during your time as an adviser? Reflecting on your legacy at Central High School, what are you proud of now?
I was always proud to have reached so many students that still share updates with me occasionally. I value the relationships that I formed with students to let them know that I was part of their support system and always would be if they ever needed help in the future. I am proud of the legacy that I continued on at Central High School and in Southwest Virginia. Many of our students now have access to college and career resources that were not available in the near past. Many more students are now able to pursue higher education and follow their dream pathways because of the difference that AdviseVA and its advisers are making across the commonwealth.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your time with AdviseVA?
AdviseVA was and still is a blessing to me because of the profound impact it had on both my personal and professional life, as well as the meaningful friendships I made along the way. Through my work with AdviseVA, I was able to see firsthand how impactful it is to help guide students in shaping their futures and creating opportunities for themselves. Being part of an organization that plays such a vital role in paving pathways for students in their journey to life after high school has given me a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment. It not only allowed me to be a part of the growth and success of the students I worked with, but it also gave me a greater appreciation for the challenges they face and the resilience they show. The connections I built, both with colleagues and students, have continued to inspire and motivate me. I feel incredibly fortunate to still be working in partnership with AdviseVA, as it allows me to continue making a positive impact on students' lives while also expanding my own knowledge and experience. This opportunity has shaped my career in ways I never anticipated, reinforcing my passion for education and my commitment to supporting students in all aspects of their lives—academic, personal, and professional. The sense of fulfillment I’ve found through this work has enriched my life in ways that go far beyond just a job; it has become a true calling.