How can I become a high school college admissions counselor?

I'm really into helping people with their college apps and thinking about a career as a high school college admissions counselor. What does the job entail, and what sort of education or experience should I aim for?

Becoming a high school college admissions counselor involves several key steps focusing on acquiring the necessary education, gaining relevant experience, and developing desired skills.

1. Education:

Most college admissions counselors have at least a bachelor's degree. While the major doesn't have to be specific, fields such as education, psychology, or sociology may be beneficial because they involve studying human behavior and learning strategies. To further enhance your credentials, some professionals choose to pursue a master's degree in counseling or a related field.

2. Certification:

Certain states require school counselors to hold state certification or licensure. The requirements vary by state but often include completing a master's degree, completing a certain number of hours of supervised experience (like an internship or practicum), and passing an examination.

3. Experience:

Before becoming a counselor, many individuals gain experience working in an educational setting. This could be through internships, volunteering, or working directly in a school environment. This hands-on experience can provide insights into the educational system and give you a feel for working with students.

4. Skills Development:

Key skills for a college admissions counselor might include communication, organization, problem-solving, interpersonal, and empathy. This job involves working one-on-one with students, talking to parents, and communicating with admission offices, so strong social and communication skills are a must.

As for the job duties, they vary but often include meeting with students to learn about their college goals, guiding students through the college admissions process, helping them prepare for exams like the SAT or ACT, assisting with college application completion, advising on essay writing, informing them on different colleges and programs, and sometimes even assisting with financial aid processes.

Remember, the goal is to ensure students are making informed decisions that align with their career goals and academic performance. Being a high school college admissions counselor can be incredibly rewarding as you'll be helping students navigate one of the most important steps in their educational journey.