Scholar Lab: Your High School Path to College Success

*Exclusively for Access College America Scholars.

*For All Grades.

In this lab, we delve into the fundamental aspects that contribute to a successful high school journey to college. Through interactive sessions and practical exercises, participants will develop a comprehensive toolkit to navigate their high school academic journey with confidence.

The objective of this Lab is for sholars with essential life and study skills to thrive academically and with confidence by covering the pillars of study skills, career exploration, academic planning, and activities.

PRESENTERS:

Julie Gooden, M.Ed.

College Consultant Associate

Access College America

Julie brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her role as College Consultant Associate with Access College America. With an impressive 29-year career in public education, Julie's journey has evolved from the elementary school classroom to various impactful roles, including Lead Counselor, AP (Advanced Placement) Coordinator, Advanced Academics Coordinator, and AVID Counselor and Administrator. She also spent many years working in the admissions office of Austin Community College and an Academic Counselor.

Julie holds a Bachelor of Science in Applied Learning and Development, as well as a Master’s in Education with a focus on Psychology/School Counseling, both earned from The University of Texas at Austin, where she proudly holds a Life Membership with the Texas-Exes. Her certifications span Elementary School Teaching, School Counseling, and Principal/Administration. In her role as a College Consultant Associate, Julie possesses a unique gift for working with individual scholars, helping them discover their passion and forge a path toward a productive and independent future within the community.

Shayla Rodriguez-Bell, M.A.

College Consulting Associate

Access College America

Shayla has been a Professional School Counselor for 23 years, working at the elementary, middle school and high school levels. The past 16 years have been spent working with high school students, supporting their academic goals and social emotional needs. She understands the value and benefits of Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, Dual Credit and has a heart for International students.

With a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies from Colorado State University and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Prairie View A&M University, her focus has always been about helping and serving others. She is passionate about getting to know her scholars and their family units while supporting their goals and objectives. She likes to understand their “why” and encourages them to be confident in their choices.