I know it must be very rewarding for a counselor when they see students succeed. I knew a counselor last year who was going through a hurtful time with a student who had no parents. This student had to emancipated in order to receive financial aid. It was very hurtful to see the student go through the process, yet at the same time it was very rewarding in the end. Now that student is in college, with a number of mentors, because the counselor told her story to only a few trusted colleagues. It is rewarding for me as the student's teacher and mentor as well.
Challenging as well. I have another story that didn't end so well. Another student that the counselor was working so hard with, not just her senior year, but all through high school. She decided that school really wasn't that important to her anymore. Getting married, quitting school, and having a baby was her first priority. Not only was this student a honor student, she also was in line for a academic scholarship. I know this had to be a challenge, it seems as if all your hard work went down the drain. I have come to realize that we can't save them all, no matter how hard we try, and that if we can save just one, we have done our jobs. So I know that this job just like most jobs have there rewards and with those rewards come challenges.
LV, I think your examples are a wonderful demonstration of why we as teachers should try our hardest not to pre-judge students and their capabilities...or lack thereof. Everyday I come to school trying to put each of my students on an equal basis for my attention and belief that each one can be successful. Some days are easier than others. But in the end, the final choices are theirs and all we can do is our best and pray for them all.
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