Interaction with College Counselors

A bit worried here, but tell me if I'm overthinking. Do college counselors typically low-ball students on what colleges they can get into, or have most of your experiences been supportive and motivating? Want to get a sense of what to expect.

It's understandable that you may feel anxious about this process. With that said, while college counselors can vary greatly in their approach, most strive to provide guidance that is supportive, motivating, and most importantly, realistic.

College counselors are typically trained to objectively assess your academic profile, extracurricular activities, essays, and other application components. They usually consider these in conjunction with the average accepted student's profile at various universities, before providing an opinion on where you apply.

It's important to note that no two schools evaluate students in the exact same way. A university that might seem like a reach could find dynamic elements in your application, personality, or background that aligns with what they're looking for. Similarly, what might seem like a safety school could have a highly competitive admissions process for a specific program or area of study.

Rather than categorizing their role as either low-balling or motivating, think of college counselors as those providing grounded perspectives based on their knowledge of the application process. They are trying their best to ensure you get accepted into a school that aligns with your goals and capabilities.

Lastly, remember that while counselors can provide valuable input, the decision is ultimately up to you. It's your college journey, and you should feel confident in applying to the schools that you desire as long as they align with your interests and goals.