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UVF Student Highlight: Leilani Velez-Labrador

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The University of Valley Forge (UVF) values both community and academic excellence among its student body, fostering both servant leadership and a commitment to spiritual growth in Christ. Leilani Velez-Labrador, a Social Work major here at UVF, has exemplified these virtues throughout her time here.  

Step of Faith 

Leilani, originally from Puerto Rico, believed that a college career in the U.S. was a distant dream. Nevertheless, she stepped out in faith and enrolled in UVF after attending a Breakaway event, where she discovered the Social Work program. Leilani’s decision to pursue Social Work powerfully reflects her personal calling while also highlighting the strength and purpose of UVF’s Bachelor of Social Work program.  

The Bachelor of Social Work is a crucial part of UVF’s Behavioral Sciences Department as it is a program nationally recognized by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Throughout this program, students must demonstrate competency in critical thinking, the application of social work principles and theories, and the ability to navigate professional, social, and organizational issues in clinical settings. Social Work students practice their generalist knowledge while integrating Christian faith into both their studies and their work. 

However, Leilani balanced more than UVF’s rigorous Social Work program when she came to the continental United States; campus life presented new challenges. Although she viewed a college career away from home as both a frightening and exciting opportunity, Leilani discovered something that she carries with her both on and off campus. 

Community’s Compassion 

Living so far away from home is not an adventure that comes without obstacles – and Leilani discovered this quickly. Yet, she fondly recalls beginning her journey on campus, “People were very hospitable and welcoming, which was very helpful. And whenever I needed help, I would just reach out and there was always somebody that was willing to help me or teach me how to do that specific thing that I was struggling with.” 

Throughout her years of study, Leilani served in several capacities on campus. She served as an Associate Resident Assistant (ARA) in the residential halls, a peer mentor for incoming freshmen, and helped with two mission trips. These positions helped Leilani strengthen her commitment to serving while emphasizing the importance of being present for others, just as Christ is present for us. She shares, “Just seeing how He [God] manifests Himself and His heart for people through all those different experiences has helped me widen my view and not get stuck in my day-to-day routine.”  

Internship Experience  

These experiences helped prepare Leilani for her one-year internship – a requirement of the Social Work major – where she worked with an agency in Philadelphia to provide social services to those in need. The agency Leilani works with specifically dedicates its services to helping refugees, immigrants, and survivors of torture and human trafficking. Leilani gives her time to the Survivor Services Department, where she serves and encourages others through advocacy, compassion, and resilience.  

Leilani expressed that the opportunities that UVF provided for her to connect with and serve others complemented her academic and spiritual growth. The Christ-centered community here at UVF is one of the strongest non-academic elements of Leilani’s degree. This element is grounded in Christ alone, an aspect the professors and faculty of UVF foster in our student body. Leilani’s story reflects the heart of UVF, where faith and education come together to prepare students to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. 

Learn More 

If you think that the Bachelor of Social Work Program would be a good fit for you, explore our Behavioral Sciences Department and apply now!  

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Admissions FAQs

Yes, most colleges and universities accept homeschool transcripts. You’ll need to create a transcript that lists all courses taken, grades earned, and a brief description of each subject. Many colleges may ask for additional documentation to verify the curriculum or learning outcomes. 

A homeschool transcript should include the following:   

  • Student’s name and contact information   
  • A list of courses by grade level (9th-12th)   
  • The grades and credits earned for each course   
  • GPA  

You can use online tools or templates to help structure your transcript.

Transcript Template (Right-click and “Save Link As” to download)

No, colleges understand that homeschool students may follow a non-traditional curriculum. You are not required to use a specific homeschooling program, but the courses should be rigorous and meet the academic standards of the college. 

UVF is test-optional, . It’s best to check each college’s specific testing policy. If you submit them, we will use those test scores for placement into math and English courses.  If you don’t submit test scores, we have placement tests that we designed that you will take instead. 

Homeschool students are encouraged to get involved in extracurricular activities (sports, clubs, volunteering, internships, etc.). For letters of recommendation, you can ask mentors, tutors, employers, or community leaders who are familiar with your work and character. We understand that your experiences may look different from those of traditional students. 

Homeschool students typically don’t have a GPA or class rank based on a standardized grading system. You may be asked to provide your grading scale (e.g., A = 90-100, B = 80-89, etc.) and explain how you evaluate coursework. . 

If your grading was pass/fail, a work sample does help us evaluate the rigor of your coursework. 

Yes, homeschooled students are eligible for the same federal and state financial aid (e.g., FAFSA) as other students. You are also eligible for institutional scholarships. 

You may be asked to provide documentation showing that your homeschooling complies with the laws of your state (e.g., notice of intent to homeschool, records of testing or assessments). We are familiar with most states’ homeschool laws. 

Yes, you can still apply as a homeschooled student if you were homeschooled for any portion of high school. You’ll need to explain the structure of your education and provide transcripts for both your public/private school and homeschool years, if applicable. 

A GED is not required if you have completed your high school education through homeschooling, provided you can submit a detailed transcript and meet the other application requirements. However, if you took the GED, you may submit those scores as part of your application if they are beneficial. 

We value the self-motivation and discipline that often come with homeschooling.  Our homeschooled students typically excel in academic curiosity, resilience, and ability to work independently. 

We always encourage students to come for an on-campus visit.  It can be a great opportunity to showcase your personality and explain your homeschooling background in person. It’s also a chance to ask questions about the college and demonstrate your interest in the school. 

Homeschooling allows you to tailor your education to your interests and strengths. We appreciate the diversity of perspectives that homeschool students bring, so don’t be afraid to highlight how your education has been non-traditional but still rigorous and meaningful. 

If you’ve taken college-level courses during high school (dual enrollment), make sure to include those credits on your application. You’ll need to request official transcripts from the college(s) where you took courses and submit them to your prospective schools. 

Some scholarships are specifically for homeschool graduates. These may be offered by homeschool associations, local foundations, or certain colleges. It’s a good idea to research scholarships in your area or inquire about opportunities at the colleges you’re applying to.