Private guidance counselor vs. school guidance counselor?

Hey everyone! I was wondering if it's worth getting a private guidance counselor for college applications instead of relying on my school's guidance counselor. Has anyone had experience with both? What are the pros and cons? Thanks for the input!

Hey there! Both private guidance counselors and school guidance counselors can be beneficial depending on your needs and preferences.

Private guidance counselors can offer a personalized, one-on-one approach to helping with college applications. They work on your specific timeline and can spend more time on your individual needs, which may help with selecting schools, creating a tailored application strategy, essay review, and even navigating the financial aid process. However, private guidance counselors can be expensive, and their effectiveness can vary depending on the individual counselor.

School guidance counselors, on the other hand, are typically free and accessible at your school. They have experience with many students and know the college application process well. They can provide general guidance and help with things like transcript requests and college recommendations. However, they may have a high caseload, limiting the amount of personalized attention they can provide. Additionally, their availability may be restricted due to the school's schedule.

Having experienced both options, I would say that they were each beneficial in their own ways: the school guidance counselor for general guidance and logistical support, and the private guidance counselor for more personalized attention. Ultimately, your decision will depend on your needs, budget, and the quality of your school's resources. Make sure to research and compare multiple private counselors (or look into affordable or free online resources, like CollegeVine) if you choose that path. Good luck!