Session Details
Session 1: Navigating College Administration
Speaker: Dr. Connie Tingson Gatuz, PhD (AVP of Student Life, University of Michigan)
- Strategic Planning: Early preparation, setting milestones, and building a portfolio.
- Effective Communication: Best practices for engaging with admissions officers and building relationships.
- Compelling Essays: Storytelling techniques and understanding what committees look for.
Session 2: Comprehensive Financial Aid Guide
Facilitated by: U-M Financial Aid Department
Application Steps: Creating an FSA ID and filing the FAFSA/CSS Profile.
Financial Evaluation: Calculating the Cost of Attendance (COA) and determining your true Net Cost.
Scholarship Directory: Access to verified resources like College Board BigFuture, Fastweb, and Scholarships.com.
Holistic Growth: Valuing self-discovery over “rushing” the education process.
Overcoming Stereotypes: Addressing the “smart Asian kid” pressure and managing performance anxiety.
Life Balance: Preparing for the transition to independent living and time management.
Support Networks: The importance of peer support and mental health resources.
Session 3: Mental Readiness for Your College Journey
Facilitated by: Yeonhee Choi, Life Leadership Coach
- Recognizing Pressure: Explore how expectations and stereotypes can influence your body and mind under stress
- Practicing the Pause: Experience simple mindfulness exercises that support clarity in high-pressure moments
- Mental Readiness: Leave with a clearer sense of how practicing mindfulness can support your college journey over time
Event Schedule