University and Futures Counseling Program
Rhonda Leshman - University and Futures Counselor
BHS is beyond proud to have Rhonda Leshman, pictured above, as our University and Futures Counselor. Rhonda is one of the most highly regarded university and futures counseling professionals not only in Barcelona, but in the world. Rhonda began her career at The George Washington University, in Washington, DC, where she spent 13 years in undergraduate admissions.
Transitioning to university and career counseling, she then served as Director of College Counseling at both Shalhevet High School and The Archer School for Girls in Los Angeles before moving to Shanghai in 2014. In Shanghai, Rhonda established the University & Career Counseling program for YK Pao School, one of the leading private high schools in China. Following a period in London at TASIS England, she moved to Barcelona, where she spent 5 years at Benjamin Franklin International School before joining BHS in February 2025.
Rhonda utilizes the Morrisby Profile, a psychometric tool that helps students identify their aptitudes and make informed decisions about higher education and career pathways. For many years, Rhonda worked simultaneously as an Admissions Evaluator for UCLA, reading both domestic, international applications and medical school applications. With a guiding philosophy of ‘helping students find the match', Rhonda encourages students to be self-reflective about their college journey and provides comprehensive support.
Rhonda Leshman an be contacted at rhonda@barcelonahighschool.com or by calling +34 660469251. BHS welcomes university admissions officers and gap year program representatives to visit the BHS campus, ideally at 12:20 pm.
Empowering Every Student to Find Their Best-Fit Path
At BHS, our University and Futures Counseling Program is highly personalized and comprehensive, supporting students as they explore and pursue higher education opportunities around the world.
Accredited by both the U.S. Department of Education and the Spanish Ministry of Education, our program offers students the resources, structure, and support they need to successfully navigate the university search and application process wherever their goals may take them.
BHS students have an account on Unifrog, a state-of-the-art university and careers platform where students can take quizzes to identify their aptitudes, strengths and research universities around the world. Unifrog also provides guidance on finding careers, super curricular activities, writing a CV/resume and/or university essay.
A Global Approach to University Planning
BHS students apply to universities throughout the EU including Spain, The Netherlands, UK, Denmark, as well as Australia, Canada, US, and more. Our Profile link contains a list of institutions where our students have been accepted.
At BHS, we begin working with students early to build strong academic foundations, cultivate passions, and encourage thoughtful exploration of career pathways.
What Sets Our Counseling Apart
The BHS program is designed to help students:
• Discover their academic interests, strengths, and values
• Identify what makes them stand out in a global applicant pool
• Develop a balanced and strategic university list
• Craft authentic and compelling personal statements and essays
• Prepare for interviews, portfolio reviews, and standardized tests (as needed)
• Understand and complete complex application platforms and requirements
• Receive guidance on financial aid, scholarships, and visa processes
Focus on the Students
At BHS, we believe each student has a unique story to tell. Rhonda engages with students to help them reflect on their experiences, contributions, and goals—then translate that into standout applications that go beyond transcripts and test scores. Whether a student is a budding scientist, artist, social advocate, or entrepreneur, we help shape a narrative that is both genuine and compelling.
We help students find ways to distinguish themselves with the goal of helping students find the best fit to continue their academic, social and emotional growth.
Services and Resources
• Personalized university advising from Grades 9–12
• Application timeline planning and checklists
• Full range of workshops, including essay writing with feedback
• Visits from international university representatives
• University fairs and networking opportunities including campus visits
• Interview preparation and mock interviews
• Portfolio and audition coaching (for creative programs)
Accredited & Globally Recognized
Our program is fully accredited by:
• The U.S. Department of Education
• The Spanish Ministry of Education
This dual recognition ensures that our academic advising and counseling align with international standards and prepares students for success in any higher education system.
Gap Year Opportunities
A number of BHS students opt to take a year or more to do a gap year program. We welcome information about structured gap year opportunities to help students plan for a meaningful experience following graduation. Guidance is provided on opportunities whether it be community service, travel, organic farming, being an au pair and seeking a local internship or job.
Let’s Plan Your Future Together
Plans following high school are more than a checklis. It’s a launchpad for lifelong learning and personal growth. At BHS, we are proud to walk alongside students and families as they make some of the most exciting and important decisions of their academic careers.