What should I know about the college counseling process?

I am currently a high school junior considering college next year. Can anyone share insights about the college counseling process? How can I best utilize my school counselor to navigate college admissions, and what should I be asking them?

Starting the college counseling process as a high school junior is a great step since it gives you enough time to research schools, clarify your interests, and understand what each college requires from its applicants.

The first step is to set up a meeting with your school counselor and go prepared. Write a list of questions beforehand to make the most of the session. Start with understanding about the resources your school provides. This could include information about college tours, financial aid workshops, test prep classes, or essay review sessions. Ask your counselor about your academic profile and how it aligns with your college ambitions too. This way, if you're looking into very selective schools, your counselor can provide advice on your coursework, standardized tests, grades, class rank, and anything else that can boost your academic profile.

Make it a point to discuss your interests, both academically and beyond. Your counselor can guide you to colleges known for certain programs if you have a specific major in mind. If you're unsure, they can help you explore careers and corresponding majors. However, don't just focus on academics. Talk about your extracurricular activities, your passions, and what you want to do outside of class. This way, they can recommend colleges that support your extracurricular interests.

Lastly, be proactive and maintain communication with your counselor. They work with many students, so ensure you stay on their radar by setting up regular meetings and keeping them informed about your progress. This will help them write a more comprehensive and persuasive letter of recommendation.

A college counselor can be a valuable ally in your college application process, offering a wealth of knowledge about colleges and the application process. By asking the counselor the right questions and following their advice, you will be well-equipped to tackle the college application process effectively.