Aloha College Advising
About Me.
My name is Amanda Wilson, and my passion is helping young people in Hawaiʻi chart their path to their biggest dreams. For over ten years, I have had the privilege of working with private clients, as well as hundreds of students from both public and private schools on Maui, guiding them on their journeys toward higher education.
My own experience of getting the opportunity to study at the University of Southern California on a full ride scholarship, navigating through the College of Education at UH Mānoa, combined with recently completing my online Master's of Education in School Counseling degree, has provided me with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing students today, regardless of where and how they choose to continue their education.
Living and working in education on Maui for eighteen years has instilled in me a profound appreciation for the power of community. It's this deep connection to Hawai'i that drives my commitment to serving its young people. I've witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of education, and I'm dedicated to helping students discover their unique talents and pursue their dreams.
Having worked as a biology teacher, I bring a unique perspective to college advising. I believe in a data-driven approach, combined with fostering strong relationships with my students. I'm particularly passionate about helping Hawaiʻi’s students share their valuable cultural perspectives with the world as they navigate the college application process. My long-standing membership in the Hawaiʻi Association of College Advising has allowed me to build strong relationships with college admissions representatives across the country, ensuring that my students receive the best possible support.
Through Aloha College Advising, I'm committed to empowering students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to thrive in college and beyond. Whether you are just beginning to explore your options or you are ready to submit your applications, I'm here to guide you every step of the way.
Education
2001-2005
University of Southern California
Bachelor of Arts, Interdisciplinary Studies: Childhood and ADHD
Driven by an interest in the rising prevalence of ADHD diagnoses in the United States, I designed an interdisciplinary major at USC called "Childhood and ADHD". This personalized program, combining developmental psychology, education, and critical studies, solidified my understanding of the importance of dynamic and responsive educational practices.
2012-2015
University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
Post-Baccalaureate Certification in Secondary Science Education
This program granted me licensure to teach in the State of Hawaiʻi. It emphasized current evidence-based high school teaching practices in the sciences. It also instilled in me the importance of culturally sensitive teaching, fostering my understanding of how to create inclusive classrooms that honor diverse backgrounds.
2021-2023
Southeastern Oklahoma State University
Master's of Education in School Counseling
This degree equipped me with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to support students' academic, social, and emotional growth. Through my graduate studies, I deepened my practice of college and career counseling and grounded it in Glasser's Reality Therapy. I am committed to applying these skills at Aloha College Counseling to create an honest and supportive environment where students can thrive.
