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 Rappahannock County High School's partnership with AdviseVA begin? Or, what was your first impression of AdviseVA/the advisers at Rappahannock County High School?
Our journey with AdviseVA began when the PATH Foundation called superintendents from their service footprint to the table to ask about the potential of partnering with AdviseVA to place an adviser in each high school at no cost to school divisions. I remember thinking that this must be too good to be true, and after hearing about the program, all the superintendents gave a resounding affirmation of support for the program to proceed.
What about AdviseVA’s efforts resonates with you?
AdviseVA's efforts to connect recent graduate counselors with nearing-graduation youth is a brilliant concept of relatability and the focus on first-gen college participation is fantastic. The connections our AdviseVA advisers have made with our students and families are lasting and meaningful.
What has been your favorite or most memorable experience working with AdviseVA?
Our AdviseVA advisers have been amazing! They are always willing to go the extra mile and participate in fun events with students to build connections. Our AdviseVA adviser even provided so many services during COVID school closures and even helped us create a contact tracing database when we returned to in-person learning. This year's adviser, Kylee, always looks for opportunities to engage students around future-planning and provide opportunities to explore possibilities. She just put on an incredible Senior Week event and even helped coordinate this year's scholarship awards ceremony.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your partnership with AdviseVA?
We are so grateful for our AdviseVA partnership and students and families express their complete appreciation each year when they see all that is possible for their children. AdviseVA advisers have always been so engaging and dedicated. We are very thankful for the support of the PATH Foundation and AdviseVA for making this incredible program happen.