College Preparation & College Readiness: Supporting 2e Students from Planning to Independence
Ashley Whitfield, Dr. Julie Loppacher, & Dr. Eric Endlich
Join the 2e Center Speaker Series on November 10th for an important discussion surrounding college and post-secondary transitions for 2e students. In this panel, experts from Bridges Academy, Rising Tide Educators, and Top College Consultants will take an in-depth look at every step of this crticial transition period. Attendees will walk away with a greater understanding of how 2e students should approach the college application process, major selection, gap years, nontraditional college pathways, and so much more – setting up their 2e learner to thrive as they enter this exciting new chapter of their life.
Ashley Whitfield is the College and Transitional Guidance Counselor at Bridges Academy. In her role, she supports students and families through college planning, admissions, and postsecondary transition, with a focus on helping students identify pathways that align with their strengths, interests, and learning profiles. Ashley is passionate about broadening students’ perspectives and identifying opportunities that excite them and cultivate their development. She is committed to helping students build independence, confidence and develop the skills needed to thrive beyond high school. She holds a B.A. in Biology and an M.A. in Education from Sonoma State University and is currently completing UCLA Extension coursework in College Counseling.
Julie Loppacher, Ed.D., is the Founder of Rising Tide Educators and the Director of the Kortschak Center for Learning and Creativity at the University of Southern California. With over 20 years of experience in higher education, she is a recognized expert in supporting students with learning challenges while fostering academic success, and promoting inclusive learning environments. Dr. Loppacher partners with faculty and staff to implement evidence-based strategies that enhance equity, engagement, and achievement across courses and programs, empowering students to reach their full potential.
Dr. Eric Endlich, clinical psychologist and founder of Top College Consultants®, helps neurodivergent students nationwide transition to college. He co-teaches the UC Irvine course, Working with Students with Learning Differences, and co-manages a large Facebook group for parents of neurodivergent college-bound students. Dr. Endlich serves on the boards of the Independent Educational Consultants Association and the College Autism Network, and is a 2e parent and adult himself.