We are excited to invite you to our upcoming LGBTQ SIG session, "College Counseling Transgender and Genderqueer Youth," taking place on August 24th at 1 PM ET. This session will be a crucial opportunity to discuss and learn about the essential role Access and Success Counselors play in ensuring that transgender and genderqueer youth have a safe and supportive college application process.

Session Overview:

In this presentation, we will delve into the vital aspects of making college counseling at the high school level inclusive and anti-oppressive for Trans/Non-Binary students. It is our responsibility as college counselors to create an environment that is welcoming and affirming for all students, regardless of their gender identity. The session will address:

1. Inclusive and Anti-Oppressive College Counseling: We will explore strategies to create an inclusive and anti-oppressive environment for Trans/Non-Binary students in the college counseling process. By fostering a respectful and understanding atmosphere, we can better support our students and empower them to pursue their educational dreams without fear of discrimination.

2. Navigating Documents and Conversations: Understanding the nuances of filling out documents, such as applications and financial aid forms, is crucial when working with transgender and genderqueer students. We will discuss the differentiation between government, given, and chosen names to ensure that we handle this information with sensitivity and without causing harm. Furthermore, we will explore how to navigate conversations on these topics mindfully and inclusively, avoiding any transphobic language or behavior.

3. Advocating for Students in College: Our responsibilities as college counselors extend beyond the application process. We will discuss how to advocate for transgender and genderqueer students already in college, both in admissions and college-bound programs. This includes addressing their housing needs, connecting them with essential resources, and advocating for comprehensive health services to support their well-being during their college journey.

We are honored to have an expert in the field of LGBTQ+ student support, Tachrina (Thas-reena) Ahmed (they/them), from Expanded Horizons, Henry Street Settlement, who has extensive experience working with trans and genderqueer youth in the college counseling context. Tachrina brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to this topic, making this session a valuable learning experience for all attendees.