Breakout Session 5
Thursday
1:30 -2:20 pm
Make a New Friend: Your Local IEC Could be Your Best Resource!
HWCC 304
Presenters: Karen Lane DeRosa and Stephanie Simpson
With a view inside organizations like IECA and the avenues for professional development as well as credentialing for independent educational consultants, this session will provide an overview of the college consultant profession. Early engagement empowers students to take ownership of their post-secondary planning; however, school counselors are stretched thin. Class 101-Dayton Owner Karen Lane DeRosa has forged institutional partnerships with multiple schools, ranging from having a daily presence in the school to supplement high school counseling; leading professional development for writing letters of recommendation and advising students; holding one time events to discuss dual enrollment, financial aid, or a look at the full runway for college planning; to serving as an on demand resource for questions regarding admissions. This session will present possible places for collaboration and partnership between school counselors and independent educational consultants to benefit more students.
Relationships That Yield: Connecting with Students, Families, and Counselors
HWCC 312
Presenters: Cody Wilson, Matthew Bagatta
This session focuses on what meaningful engagement looks like in the day-to-day work of an admissions counselor. It emphasizes moving beyond transactional visits and toward relationships grounded in consistency, honesty, and intentional communication. Small moments matter. A little humor, light conversation, and helping nervous families relax can change the tone of an interaction. Instead of simply answering questions, counselors learn to ask thoughtful ones that uncover what truly matters to students and families. Attendees will explore how to be relatable, offer honest guidance, and include families as true partners in the process. Participants will also learn how to show rather than tell by using real student examples and staying connected to what is happening on campus. The session highlights how a student’s background should shape each conversation and how consistent follow-up through emails, calls, and texts demonstrates genuine care beyond the first meeting.
Mental Health and Work-Life Balance in Admissions
RW Corns 203
Presenters: Grace Nonnamaker, Marissa Hetterscheidt
Admissions counseling is a highly rewarding and student-centered profession, but it can also be emotionally physically, and mentally exhausting. From long days on the road in the Fall to extended hours facilitating campus visits and events, admissions counselors need the tools to balance supporting students and their own personal wellbeing. This session explores practical strategies for prioritizing your mental health while working in higher education. Through personal experiences, honest conversations, and actionable tips, attendees will leave this session equipped with the tools needed to create healthy boundaries, improve work-life balance, and sustain a long-term career in admissions.
What’s Your Flavor? Mastering Your Admissions Voice
RW Corns 209
Presenters: Marquez Young
In this interactive session, participants will refine their public speaking skills and develop a confident, authentic “elevator speech” for college admissions counseling. Attendees will learn how to clearly communicate their role, value, and impact in just a few moments while strengthening presence, clarity, and storytelling. Through guided practice and feedback, participants will leave with a polished personal pitch they can use in school visits, parent meetings, and community engagement.