What does a high school guidance counselor do?

I'm curious about pursuing a career as a high school guidance counselor in the future. Could someone explain what their job responsibilities are, and what kind of education and skills I might need?

High School Guidance Counselor Responsibilities:

- Academics: They are responsible for helping students choose courses and plan their academic career by taking into consideration their future educational goals, like colleges and courses they want to pursue after high school and possible future careers.

- College Applications: They provide advice for college admissions processes like application deadlines, how to write a strong personal statement, navigating financial aid, and making a final college decision.

- Personal Development: They provide emotional and social support, helping students dealing with personal issues that may impact their school performance.

- Career Counseling: They help students explore possible careers, introducing them to various industries and jobs, and educating them on what courses or extracurricular activities might be beneficial for certain career paths.

- Crisis Intervention: They handle crises involving students, like bullying or mental health issues, and work closely with teachers, administrators, and parents to provide the necessary support.

Educational Requirements:

- Bachelor's Degree: Most often, this includes a degree in sociology, psychology, or education.

- Master's Degree: Usually in school or educational counseling or a related field. This is where most of your specialized training will take place.

- Certification/License: This varies by state, and usually requires continuing education for renewal.

Needed Skills:

- Excellent communication and active listening skills to connect with students and understand their needs.

- Compassion and understanding especially when dealing with stressful situations.

- Organizational skills to manage a large number of students and tasks.

- Problem-solving ability to address student issues effectively and in a timely manner.

Just remember that the challenges can be significant, but so are the rewards, as you have the opportunity to shape students' lives and guide them toward a bright future.