High school counselors help students plan for college. They advise on courses, testing, applications, and financial aid, and they know how the process works at your school.
Build the relationship early. Introduce yourself in freshman or sophomore year and check in regularly. A counselor who knows your goals, strengths, and interests can write stronger recommendations and give better advice.
Meet on a schedule. Many students find it helpful to meet a few times a year in the early grades and more often as application season approaches. Come prepared with your transcript, test scores, and a list of colleges you are considering.
Ask direct questions. Good ones include: which courses will prepare me best for my intended major, which tests do my target colleges require and when should I take them, what financial aid and scholarships should I apply for, and how can I strengthen my application through activities or work experience.
Use your counselor for academic planning. They can tell you whether honors or AP courses fit your goals, whether your schedule meets graduation and college admission requirements, and how to handle a rough semester.
Counselors also help with career exploration and personal challenges. They can arrange job shadowing, suggest career assessments, and connect you with support services when school or life gets stressful. Come to meetings prepared, take notes, and follow up on what you discuss. Related reading: researching college majors, the SAT exam, financial aid options, and academic advising.
