Working With a School Counselor
Questions to Ask About College
Most high schools have at least one school counselor employed to assist students. School counselors have a master’s degree in professional school counseling, which includes training in college counseling. Students can utilize their school counselor to help to narrow college choices. The following are some questions that students can ask their school counselors about planning for college:
What High School Courses Should Students Take to Prepare for College?
School counselors are well versed in the curriculum of the high school. They must guide students to choose the correct high school courses for high school graduation. Additionally, students who would like to attend college must also plan to take courses not only for graduation purposes but also for college admission. Many times the two sets of required courses intertwine. The school counselor can help students plan out which courses to take during their high school years.
How Do Students Create a College List?
Since counselors are trained in college planning and development, they have access to multiple resources, including printed and internet, to assist students. Sometimes the internet programs require a password, which can only be given out by the counselor. Also, school counselors can assist students to look at several college factors and decide the type of college that matches their criteria.
What Standardized Tests Do Students Need to Take to Go to College?
The ACT and SAT are the most popular tests that students take to attend college; however, not every college requires the two tests. The school counselor will be able to direct students which one to take, if necessary. Also, the ACT now offers an optional writing test, which some colleges now require. The counselor will know which colleges will want the writing portion.
There are two pre-assessments that prepare students to take the ACT and SAT. Those two tests are the ACT Plan and PSAT. Many high schools provide students the opportunity to take one or both tests for a small fee. The Plan can only be taken in the tenth grade and the PSAT can only be taken in eleventh grade. Students need to speak to their counselors about when to take these assessments.
What Questions Should Students Ask a College Representative?
College representatives often visit high schools throughout the school year. This gives the students the opportunity to ask specific college related questions to a college professional. Students can also visit colleges and speak to a representative while on the visit. The school counselor can help students to formulate appropriate questions to ask. Some questions can include how are roommates assigned, can freshmen participate on research projects with professors, what type of academic support does the college have, and when do professors have office hours for extra help?
How Do Students Apply to College?
Each college has their own application process and admission criteria. School counselors have a working relationships with colleges and know what the colleges require for admission. This may include applications, essay questions, recommendations, transcripts, and interviews. The counselors can help students research what elements are needed to apply and coach the students through each component.
Overall, the school counselor is an expert in the field of college admission. Counselors can assist students to develop a comprehensive plan to focus on college. Students can reduce their anxiety of college by meeting with a school counselor several times during high school. Having some questions in mind will help the counselor to know how to direct students.
Planning for College
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