Choosing between high school counselor and college admissions advisor?

So I’ve been mulling over this decision for a while, and I’m a bit stressed. Should I solely rely on my high school counselor's advice for college applications, or is it worth seeking help from a dedicated college admissions advisor? How similar are the services they provide, and has anyone felt a significant difference after going to a specialized advisor?

Hey there! It's great you're thinking about how best to tackle the college application process. Your high school counselor can indeed be a valuable resource, especially since they're already familiar with your high school and its profile. They often help with course selection, organizing testing, writing letters of recommendation, and making sure you meet application deadlines.

However, a specialized college admissions advisor often brings a different level of service to the table, providing more personalized attention and often meticulous guidance tailored to your unique strengths and goals. They might have more time to help you develop a strong narrative for your applications, assist in preparing for interviews, and give detailed feedback on your essays.

For instance, I had a student who worked mainly with their school counselor until their junior year, when they decided to seek additional guidance from a specialized advisor. They found the advisor's perspective and essay-editing skills particularly beneficial, which added a more polished look to their applications. This isn't to say that the school counselor wasn't helpful—quite the opposite, but the additional support from the advisor provided that extra boost in their college admissions journey.

In considering your decision, also think about how complex your application process will be. If you're aiming for very competitive schools, are interested in a specialized program, or if you just want that extra bit of personalized attention, investing in a college admissions advisor might be worthwhile. On the other hand, if your school's counselor can provide the support you need, or budgetary concerns are significant, starting there could be your best bet. Feel free to reach out to both and see what kind of vibe you get—after all, having a good relationship with the person helping you through this process is key. Best of luck!