What roles do high school counselors usually have in their jobs?

I'm curious about what high school counselors actually do on a daily basis. Do they only help with college applications, or are there other aspects to their job? Trying to figure out how they can help me in my junior year.

High school counselors have multi-faceted responsibilities that go beyond assisting with college applications. While that's a significant aspect of their work, especially for juniors and seniors, they are also involved in a range of other supportive functions.

First, they provide academic guidance. This can involve helping students choose classes that align with their future goals, as well as assisting those who are struggling academically or need additional resources for support. They're often very knowledgeable about course offerings and graduation requirements.

Second, they offer personal and social support. If students are dealing with personal issues like stress, conflicts with peers, family issues, or mental health concerns, the counselor is a trained professional who can provide guidance and resources for further support.

Third, they play a significant role in career counseling. They can help students explore possible career paths, understand what education or training those careers require, and even guide on internships or work-study opportunities.

Finally, in the context of college applications, counselors do assist with the whole process. This can include helping students find schools that are a good fit, guiding them through the application process, and providing advice on essays. They also usually handle sending official transcripts and can assist with financial aid and scholarship information.

So, in your junior year, you could approach your counselor for a wide range of issues - from planning classes to match your college objectives, exploring colleges that could be a good fit, engaging in a conversation about potential career directions, or seeking support for any personal or academic concerns you might have. They can be a valuable resource throughout your high school journey, not just for your college application process.