THE (MIS)GUIDANCE OF COLLEGE COUNSELORS
In casual conversations with college friends of mine that attended other high schools, I have always been shocked by how many of them were discouraged from applying to top tier colleges by their guidance counselors. These college counselors attempted to convince their students that their chances of going to elite colleges were so slim that they shouldn’t even try.
This type of “counseling” often left my friends only two options: take these words to heart and abandon their hopes of attending their dream schools, or find a way to utilize other resources in order to get the support needed to the school of their choice. While my friends who found themselves in this position ended up attending schools that they were happy with–many actually attending their dream schools– these negative interactions with people who are meant to help support and guide one’s academic journey can fill a student’s college admissions process with self-doubt and fear.
One of the most helpful things that a college guidance counselor can and should be doing for a student is setting due dates for application materials far ahead of the official deadlines so that there is no last minute scramble to write subpar essays. Looking at the application deadlines for each school your child is applying to, creating your own calendar and holding your child accountable is a great way to stay on track in the absence of a reliable college counselor.
Both parents and students, especially those who are new to the college admissions process, should know that while guidance counselors can be a useful resource, their opinions are not the know-all and be-all. If you’re finding that you’re not receiving the appropriate level of support from your high school college counselor check out some of these alternative resources:
SURFING THE WEB
One of the greatest benefits of undergoing the college admissions process is the access to free online resources. With so many articles and guides aimed towards preparing students and families for the college admissions process, a quick Google search can give you the answers to your most pressing and specific questions. However, sometimes the sheer volume of websites geared towards college applicants and their families can translate to information overload and not knowing which advice to trust. When looking to the internet for advice about what steps to take when applying to schools, look to reputable sites such as College Board, CTLC and of course, the websites of the schools that your child is looking to attend.
INFORMATIONAL SESSIONS
Another huge benefit of a good college counselor is their background information about some if not all of the colleges/universities where your child is applying. While it is helpful to have someone provide that intel for you, students and their families can seek out that information themselves by attending events hosted by the colleges of their choices. Going to college fairs hosted by your high school or local organizations and attending informational sessions can provide the opportunity to ask admissions officers, and sometimes alumni, poignant questions about the ideal applicant.
Be sure to attend these sessions with a notepad and pen. You will want to refer to your notes as you write your application materials!
ANCILLARY PROGRAMS
If the thought of navigating this process alone is too daunting or if you feel that you still need external help from experts, there are a number of external college counseling coaches and programs, such as Turning Dreams Into Goals. While these aren’t free options, they can be extremely valuable, especially if your child could benefit from the extra edge provided by professional help. Be sure to do your research, read testimonials and find an option that both works within your budget and will provide the type of support that you feel is necessary. Do you need help crafting the perfect essay? Need to work on your interviewing skills? Unsure of where to send a college application? Iron out where you need guidance most before you hire any outside services so that you can hit the ground running!
POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT
Applying to college is tough and is only made more difficult when rejected by a counselor before the process is in full swing. Even if you choose to seek out these alternative routes of support and counseling, any discouraging words and advice from a college counselor can still negatively impact the self esteem of a student. Be sure to always provide positive reinforcement and encouragement to your child throughout this process. Remind them that the school where they end up being accepted will be a victory.
Written by Tamar Davis