For most students like you, choosing where to go to college is the most important decision you've had to make so far in your life. This is why so many students get help by working with a college admissions counselor. But what does a college counselor do, and is a college counselor right for your situation?
When should you consider a college counselor?
Students who work with college counselors are typically looking for a more thorough and individualized approach to college search and admissions than what they can do on their own, or with their school's help. Other reasons you might consider a college counselor include:
You're feeling overwhelmed and stuck, and want extra support to move through the process
You need help choosing majors or building your college list
You want to work with someone who can help you stand out from other applicants, and give you information and tips that lead to better admissions and scholarship opportunities
You're looking to reduce the stress and anxiety that the college search and admissions process is causing your family
You don't want to have any regrets when it comes to choosing colleges
What kind of help can a college counselor provide?
There are many ways in which a college counselor can help throughout the college search and admissions process. At RingTrue, we help you understand and articulate your talents and strengths, and then learn how to use those talents and strengths to choose majors, find the best college matches and stand out from the crowd of other applicants. We can also help you prepare your application materials, provide feedback on your personal statements and supplemental essays, build a testing strategy, understand the financial aid and scholarship process, and more!
Who should not hire a counselor?
There are certain situations and/or mindsets in which a student will not benefit from a college counselor. These include:
You are very self-directed, know what you want to study, know which schools are on your list, are not looking for help with applications or essays, and your grades/test scores are within your colleges' average admissions rate range
Your parent or guardian is forcing you to meet with the counselor, and you are adamantly against getting help
Your parent or guardian is deep into the admissions process and has already made the decisions around where and how you will apply to college (even if they haven't articulated it directly yet)
Some Final Words About Hiring A College Counselor
If you've decided a college counselor might be right for you after considering the thoughts above, we have some final words of advice for you when making your choice:
Make sure the counselor is experienced and knowledgeable about the college admissions process.
Be clear about your goals and expectations before hiring a counselor. Discuss what you hope to achieve through counseling, and make sure the counselor is on board with your goals.
Finally, trust your gut! If you feel like a certain counselor is not a good fit for you, don't hesitate to look elsewhere.
College Counseling With RingTrue Coaching
RingTrue College Coaching gives students the structure, tools and support they need for a successful college search . Check out our website today and book a free 15-minute consultation to see if we're the right fit to help you find your best college!
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