Conference Schedule

UCOP and campus updates (8:30 - 10:30 a.m.)

UC Office of the President will provide information on the state of first-year admission. Campuses will share an overview of their admission process, application, admit and enrollment data and trends, and program highlights.

Workshop Block A (11:00 - 11:50 a.m.)

All In the details: Maximizing the activities and awards section

Are your students maximizing their activities and awards section? Explore strategies for supporting students in showcasing their authentic selves, whether they have non-traditional involvement or need to address their lack of involvement. Learn how students can highlight their meaningful experiences that demonstrate commitment, responsibility and passions outside of the classroom.

Staying fresh on the first-year basics

Is this your first admission cycle? Do you need to freshen up on first-year admission basics? You’ve come to the right place! Join us in this introductory session as we discuss minimum admission and selection criteria including topics such as A-G requirements, comprehensive review, UC GPA, and more. You’ll leave this session with a “fresh” understanding of how to utilize UC resources for first year admissions.

Unleash your advanced evaluation superpowers

Are you ready to discover the superhero counselor within you? Put on your cape and join us as we discuss geometry, out-of-state coursework, mixed records, and more. With the knowledge gained from this session, you’re sure to be the counselor that saves the day!

Workshop Block B (12:40 - 1:30 p.m.)

Looking to the future and a debt-free UC

The realm of financial aid is undergoing changes, and UC is taking advantage of this opportunity to foster equity in terms of access to higher education. In this session, we will explore the comprehensive financial aid programs presently offered at UC and our aspirations for future financial aid initiatives. Additionally, we will examine the noteworthy modifications to the FAFSA and discuss their implications for students and the California Dream Act Application.

Pitfalls & pointers: Successfully navigating the UC application

In this session, we will review the UC application together so you can learn more about how to best support your students through the application process. The presentation will cover critical portions of the application, address common problem areas, and answer any questions you may have about the application.

Transfer is the answer: Supporting your students on the transfer journey

Join us as we demystify the transfer process by highlighting the benefits of attending a community college after high school. Learn about the resources and programs available to support students for a successful transfer to the University of California.

Workshop Block C (1:50 - 2:40 p.m.)

Better than a bot: PIQs through the eyes of UC admissions

In this session, you will learn about the nature of each PIQ prompt and criteria to keep in mind when guiding your students to craft a response: how to add value to your student’s application, understanding the steps to PIQ writing, and the power of a student’s own words and experience in light of AI technology.

Major mayhem: Everyone wants my major, what do I do?

Many students want a selective major, but what does it mean to apply to these majors? This session will explore varying processes and alternative pathways that ignite intriguing conversations about the interplay between majors and careers. Join us to learn about navigating through high-demand and selective majors.

Opening up about mental health in the UC application

Sharing details in the UC application about mental health may be a stressor for many students. Join us as we talk about disclosing details about mental health in the application. In particular, how the admissions reader can and cannot use the information shared in the self-reported application.

Workshop Block D - mini-sessions (3:00 - 3:30 p.m.)

A-G Primer: The basics of A-G course policy, submissions and list management

This session is for anyone new (or new-ish) to all things A-G and will cover the basics of A-G course policy, submissions and list management. Included will be live demos of the three A-G websites, discussion of excerpts from approved courses, Q&A and more.

Stop at nothing: Supporting undocumented students in the UC system

Encourage your students to embrace the transformative power of education and unlock their potential at UC. This session empowers counselors to discover the boundless opportunities, pathways and unparalleled support available for undocumented students at UC.

Supporting resilience in student success—A tale of two programs

Explore the evolution of outreach and support for students from various underserved communities in the UC system. In this session, we will highlight two student services programs: (1) Guardian Scholars, aimed at supporting former and current foster youth, and (2) Underground Scholars, for formerly incarcerated and system-impacted youth. Join us to learn more about their origin stories, services available and how to best advise your students!

UC’s new transfer program: A Dual Admission update

Join the UC Office of the President as we provide an update on UC’s new transfer program. This invite-only program begins during a student’s time in high school. Learn about the program, how to advise students and promote the UC transfer path.