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Kristen Jurkovich
School Counselor at Alameda Unified School District
Professional Background
Kristen Jurkovich is an accomplished school counselor with extensive experience in psychological counseling and educational guidance. She currently serves as a dedicated School Counselor at the Alameda Unified School District, where she is committed to facilitating the academic and emotional development of students. Drawing upon her rich educational background and practical experience, Kristen creates supportive environments that encourage students to thrive and achieve their potential.
Previously, Kristen has held a variety of impactful positions that have contributed significantly to her strong foundation in counseling and educational consultancy. As an External Freshman Admissions Reader at UC Berkeley, she gained valuable insights into the admissions process and the attributes that contribute to successful student applications. This experience deeply informs her approach as a school counselor, enhancing her ability to assist students in navigating their educational journeys.
Kristen’s career in counseling began as a Counseling Intern at Frederick Douglass Academy, where she honed her skills in providing guidance to students facing a myriad of challenges. She then served as a Counselor at the Dean Hope Center for Education and Psychological Services, where she developed strategies to address the psychological needs of children and adolescents. Her role as a Teaching Assistant at the Early Academic Outreach Program at UC Berkeley allowed her to engage with students from diverse backgrounds, further solidifying her commitment to equity in education.
Additionally, as a College Adviser at the National College Advising Corps, Kristen played a crucial role in helping high school students understand and pursue higher education opportunities. Her diverse experiences reflect a consistent dedication to helping students overcome obstacles and achieve their academic goals.
Education and Achievements
Kristen Jurkovich holds a wealth of knowledge, having received her Master of Arts (M.A.) in Psychological Counseling (School Counseling) and her Ed.M. in the same field from the prestigious Teachers College of Columbia University. Her education has equipped her with the necessary skills to effectively support and guide students through their personal and academic challenges.
Prior to her graduate studies, Kristen earned her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and French from the University of California, Berkeley, where she cultivated a dual interest in human behavior and language. This unique combo not only reflects her academic versatility but also serves as an invaluable asset in her counseling practice, allowing her to understand and communicate with a diverse range of students.
Throughout her professional journey, Kristen has not only built a solid foundation of knowledge and expertise but has also been actively involved in initiatives that enhance student well-being and access to education. Her commitment to her students and her profession is evidenced by her continuous pursuit of professional development opportunities and engagement in educational programs.
Achievements
Kristen's contributions to the field of education and psychological counseling are noteworthy. She takes pride in creating interventions that are tailored to the unique needs of her students, promoting not only academic success but also mental health wellness. Her experience as an External Freshman Admissions Reader has allowed her to bridge the gap between high school and higher education, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the admissions process.
As a Counselor and Educator, Kristen has effectively utilized her knowledge of sociology to advocate for students’ rights, helping to address the systemic barriers faced by underrepresented populations in education. Her commitment to social justice and academic equity informs all aspects of her work.
Kristen’s ability to connect with students and guide them through transitional phases is a hallmark of her professional approach. Whether it’s assisting them with college applications or providing social-emotional support, she consistently strives to foster an environment where all students feel valued and understood. Her impactful work has left a lasting impression on the students, educators, and communities she serves.
In summary, Kristen Jurkovich exemplifies the qualities of a compassionate, knowledgeable, and dedicated school counselor. Her extensive educational background, coupled with rich experiences in various counseling roles, positions her as a remarkable advocate for students' educational and emotional welfare.
