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5 Tips for a Productive School Counselor Meeting

Planning for the future can be overwhelming. High school counselors can help you create a path for success. Find out how to make the most of your time with them.

School counselors are experts and advocates. They’re also incredibly busy. The national average student-to-counselor ratio is 385:1. To get as much out of your time together as possible, you’ll want to plan ahead. Utilize these tips to unlock the full potential of your meetings and ensure a rewarding and successful high school experience.

1. Come prepared

Many counselors require scheduled and timed meetings, so it’s important to approach your meetings with a clear agenda so you can cover everything you need to address. If you’re meeting with a counselor to get guidance about college admissions, do your homework beforehand. (We highly recommend The Princeton Review’s College Search tool.) Ask specific questions about courses or activities that can help you become a competitive candidate. Share any preliminary plans, and ask for their advice. If you’re meeting about another topic, such course planning, arrive ready to discuss the options you’re considering.

2. Set SMART goals

During your meetings, use the time to discuss academic goals and any personal objectives you may have. Use the SMART goal-setting approach (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-Bound) to outline your academic and personal targets. Align these goals with your counselor's guidance to take initiative in your personal and academic progress and stay on track with your goals.

3. Discuss college prep

While all of high school involves college prep, you should start your application preparation during your junior year. Schedule a meeting with your counselor to review your transcript, identify classes that qualify for college credit, discuss whom you’ll ask to write letters of recommendation on your behalf, bring your résumé for review, and strategize about extracurricular activities. You can even bring a copy of your college admissions essay!

4. Ask for career guidance

Your counselor can help you explore career paths based on your interests, academic strengths, and goals. Once you identify potential careers, it becomes easier to decide on your major and find colleges whose academic strengths align with your aspirations. Your counselor may even be able to connect you with current college students in your chosen majors or college admissions team members who can answer your specific questions.

5. Get information on financial aid

Your counselor can provide information on local scholarships, alumni scholarships, and alternative funding sources for higher education. They are a great resource as you consider your college financial plan.

Remember, your high school counselor is not just a guide for helping you achieve academic success, but also a partner in advancing your personal and professional development.