What's the job of a school counselor?

I'm curious about what a school counselor does day-to-day. I'm considering this career path because I like working with people, but I want to know more about the responsibilities and overall impact they have on students.

A school counselor has an extensive list of responsibilities, and their role can vary quite a lot depending on the school's needs, the specific grade levels they're assigned to, and the unique needs of the student population.

First and foremost, a counselor facilitates individual and group counseling sessions with students. These sessions can cover a range of topics, from academic struggles and stress management to personal issues or conflict resolution. The goal is to provide a safe and confidential environment where students can freely express their feelings and seek help.

Counselors also spend part of their day coordinating with teachers, administrators, and parents. They might discuss student progress, develop intervention strategies for students who are struggling academically or behaviorally, or discuss services that might be beneficial for certain students, such as tutoring or mentoring programs.

Importantly, a school counselor plays a significant role in helping students plan for their post-high school goals. This includes guiding students through the college application process, helping them explore potential career paths, setting up career and college fairs, and working with students on their course selection to align with their plans.

Crisis intervention is another critical aspect of a counselor's role. They provide support in times of personal crises or emergencies, guiding students toward appropriate resources and helping them navigate tough situations.

So overall, the job of the counselor is quite diverse and can be both challenging and extremely rewarding. They have a significant impact on a student's school experience and can be influential figures in guiding students toward their future paths. Remember, though, every school and school district can have different expectations for their counselors, so it can be useful to talk to professionals in the field or do job shadowing to get a better idea of what the role looks like in different settings.