Today’s blog was written by admission counselor Laura Schmidt.
College Counseling Offices differ across the country in terms of size, and also the amount of time they are able to spend with each individual student. Some high school counselors work with one to two students, and some work with hundreds. That being said—no matter their size or the amount of time spent with each student they are very important in not only the college search process, but also the application process. As a high school student, you might feel overwhelmed and also under a lot of stress and pressure when it comes to the overall college search and application process. There are so many colleges and universities that offer wonderful opportunities—how could you pick just one? Your College Counseling Office is there to help you and relieve some of your stressors and pressures. Here are some of the ways you can make the most of your relationship with your college counseling office:
- Form a Relationship with your College Counselor as soon as Possible: The more you know about one another the more they will be able to help and advise you.
- Ask Questions: The more you ask the more you know and the better prepared you will be when it comes to visiting schools and applying to schools.
- Set up One-on-One Appointments: If your college counselor works with hundreds of students they might not be thinking about you and only you every day. However, if you set up an appointment to meet with them personally, they will have your undivided attention for that specific period of time.
- Do Your Research: Come prepared when you meet with your college counselor. Know your wants, needs, and expectations when it comes to picking a college. Think about what you want to get out of your experience. The more preparation you do on the front end, the less surprised you will be about your experience in the long run.
- Share Your Passions and Interest: Let your college counselor get to know you. The more aware they are of your strengths, weaknesses, passions, and career goals the more they will be able to help you and share with you colleges and universities that fit your needs.
- Use their advice and resources: College Counselors are trained professionals. They know what they are doing, and they want to help you. If you are feeling stressed and under a lot of pressure—go talk to your counselor. They will work with you so that your list of colleges and universities is manageable and fits your needs.