I believe that the most rewarding part of being a guidance counselor would be the opportunity to touch so many student's lives. I have witnessed the counselor at my high school make a great effort to set up individualized appointment with each and every student. She has a written plan for each student to visualize and give their input on what they want after high school. I think this is rewarding because she gets a chance to communicate with the students outside of class where they may feel a little more comfortable sharing their dreams or aspirations. She is able to develop a trusting relationship with them and this also opens up the door for other areas that they may need assistance.
On the other hand, I believe that the most challenging part of being a guidance counselor would have to be the feeling of not being able to help every child in need. As a new teacher, I felt that I had to be the savior of all students and I felt "burn-out" quickly. The counselor, because they touch so many students may tend to be overloaded even more so at times. I believe that they are overwhelmed with students, parents and teachers and this can be very difficult especially at my school when you are the only counselor available. Many students do not have a support system in place and rely on the counselor for basically all of their needs and coming from a rural, poverty stricken area, this encompasses more than half of the student body. I believe it becomes very difficult for counselors to cater to each individual student because their jobs are more data driven now and systems are looking at overall student performance.
I agree with you Janet. I think that a counselor's reward is being able to touch each student's life in one way or another. The fact that your counselor makes an appointment with each student is impressive. I remember when I was in high school, and don't remember the counselor playing a significant role in my educational process. But again that was many years ago and their role then may have been different.
ReplyDeleteAs for the most challenging part of being a guidance counselor I agree is not being able to help everyone. I know as a teacher I sometimes wonder am I helping anyone, or wonder am I making a difference. There is only one conselor at my school and I am sure she feels overwhelmed at times.