The basics
What's it like to be a college counselor?
Overview
Some people may want to work with children but not in a classroom with a large group of students or with elementary/middle school students. They might prefer one on one help, and for those with these interests, one possible career is college counseling. College counselors work with high school students and prepare them for the future. Typically, college counselors work with one student at a time to focus on their future and tailor the conversation to suit their needs. Because they don’t have a set school schedule to follow, their schedules tend to be more flexible as well. However, since they have a flexible lifestyle, they can also be working constantly, especially during college application season. A college counselor’s basic responsibilities include telling students how to get through the college admissions process by providing general documents, editing college applications, and providing lists to scholarships. Private college counselors or outstanding school counselors may also meticulously craft plans suited to fit each student’s skills, needs, and desires to guide them to the career and college that fits them rather than just aiming for top colleges or safety schools.
Requirements
The first step to becoming a school counselor is completing a bachelor’s degree, usually in life development, psychology, group therapy, ethics, or law. In most states, a master’s degree in college counseling or postsecondary counseling is also required. All these programs should be accredited through the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs. After counselors complete their general education, they receive their license or certification in order to act as a college counselor. Another path to become a college counselor is if a current teacher chooses to become one. Because the required courses are similar, some private companies/schools will hire individuals who were previously teachers to act as a general college counselor. Regardless of which path one takes to becoming a college counselor, they should be trustworthy, hardworking, and have a strong desire to help others.
What Can High Schoolers Do?
- Talk to your assigned college counselor from school
- Have a free trial session with a private college counselor
- Explore different colleges and their careers
- Create a college board account to start your college planning
- Enroll in classes such as psychology or speech and debate to hone your communication skills
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