The Emery college counseling program welcomes Director Chadd Bridwell and Associate Director Alyssa Zarco, signaling the beginning of a new chapter: one that aims to further improve and ease the college application experience for years to come.
Currently, the program helps students and families navigate the often intimidating college application process. By hosting group information sessions and personalized meetings, the college counselors ensure that every student approaches application season with confidence and motivation. Emery’s counselors strive to help every student find a school where they can succeed both academically and socially.
For Zarco, the application process is more than just deadlines and admissions; it’s about helping each student find their place. “At its core, the goal is to help students discover colleges where they’ll thrive — not just get in, but truly belong,” Zarco said. “As a first-generation college student myself, I understand how overwhelming it can feel, so I’m especially committed to making this journey approachable and inclusive for every family.” Zarco brings a new perspective to the department, having recently launched an Instagram account to share reminders and insights with students and families. “College counseling doesn’t have to live only in emails and meetings; it can be informative and fun,” she said. “The goal is to keep students engaged and informed in a format they’ll actually see … without needing to chase them down in the hallways!”
Bridwell brings years of experience from his time as an admissions officer. Having worked as the Assistant Dean of Admissions at Southern Methodist University, he has insight into the admissions process from the other side. He is passionate about using this expertise to support students. Since arriving at Emery, Bridwell has been impressed by the energy and engagement of Emery students. “Emery is such an evolving school. All the students have been forthcoming, respectful, and disciplined; it’s truly refreshing,” he said. “Managing applications and making challenging decisions is one of the most important learning processes a young adult goes through.”
Looking ahead, both counselors have many plans for the future of Emery’s college counseling department. Zarco hopes to expand the program’s reach earlier in students’ high school journeys. “We’re planting seeds early, building a culture of curiosity, self-reflection, and planning starting in ninth grade.” Her ultimate goal for the program is to be known “not just for outcomes, but for the journey students and counselors take to get there.”
Bridwell shares this desire, hoping to implement more programming and college-preparation resources for 10th and 11th-graders, including support for the SAT and ACT, as well as workshops. He shared, “Emery is at an incredible pace for growth and expansion, my hope is that the college counseling program grows alongside it.”
As the Class of 2026 enters the final stretch of their application journey, Emery counselors remind them to focus on authenticity and balance. “Take a deep breath, this is your story, not a race,” Zarco advised. Bridwell echoed that sentiment, telling seniors to “enjoy the ride and embrace the process. Everyone is on their own journey, driving at different paces in different cars.” Their message is clear: be curious, be confident, and be patient. Trust that “the right path will come into focus, and you are more than ready for what’s next!”
