What does a school counselor do?

I'm curious about what being a school counselor involves. Are they mostly focused on academic advising, or do they help with personal issues too? I'm considering pursuing this career, so any insights into their daily job would be helpful!

A school counselor wears many hats and their duties go beyond just academic advising. They play a pivotal role in addressing student's overall growth and development, which includes academic, personal/social, and career-based facets.

On the academic front, school counselors guide students on their course load, suggest suitable academic programs, and help students to improve their study skills. This can mean identifying potential learning challenges and working with team members to create an Individualized Education Program (IEP) as well.

On the personal/social side, they offer counseling to help students manage various issues that might affect their academic and personal well-being. This can include things like conflict resolution, stress management, dealing with bullying, or coping with personal problems. They often serve as trusted figures students can turn to when they're facing difficulties.

In terms of career and college planning, school counselors guide students on potential career paths based on their interests and help them plan for post-secondary education. This can mean advising them about the college application process and even providing resources, like SAT/ACT test prep or internship opportunities.

Their daily job might look like a mix of one-on-one student meetings, group workshops, collaborating with teachers and parents, and administrative tasks (like maintaining student records). Additionally, they must stay abreast of the various rules and school policies to better assist students and their families.

Of course, the exact job description varies by the school level (elementary, middle, high school, etc.) and the specific school's needs. For anyone considering a career as a school counselor, a degree in counseling, psychology, or a related field, along with licensure/certification, would typically be required.

Hope this gives you a good sense of what a school counselor does! It's a fulfilling role that allows you to make a meaningful impact on students' lives.