To Take Advantage of Counseling Services, Get to Know Your Counselor

Tom Hanson, Contributing Writer

Updated: 1/7/2009

At all colleges and universities, the mission of the counseling staff is to help students with their emotional and psychological well being in addition to providing academic counseling. Because they focus on the whole person and not just academics, guidance counselors often serve as a college student’s most valuable resource.

However, to take full advantage of the skills your counselor offers it is imperative that you get to know that person well. In fact, developing a relationship with your counselor may be one of the most important aspects of being successful in college.

The Importance of Developing a Relationship

When it comes to counseling services provided by colleges and universities, a level of trust is critical. No one is comfortable sharing deep personal information with strangers, especially when it comes to sharing inner emotional issues. In addition, even though college counselors are trained listeners, they too may find it difficult to provide advice if they do not have a good understanding of the person and that person’s situation.

Begin by making an appointment shortly after beginning your degree program. Many college counselors may actually contact you first but there is nothing wrong with initiating that first face-to-face conversation. At that first meeting, you can briefly share your personal situation as it relates your education and whatever else you are comfortable talking about. You can then ask what the protocols and expectations are regarding future meetings as well as how walk in hours are handled. Don’t hesitate to set up another meeting to touch base as the semester begins to wind down.

It is important to begin with a meeting or two when you do not have any issues. That way you will be more able to share a concern when a problem does arise. The counselor in turn will also have a good sense for you and can then tailor any pertinent advice to your situation and education goals. Later if you are having problems with basic test preparation, with a class or a specific professor, or with things in your personal life you know you will have someone that you trust, someone you can turn to share those issues with and someone from whom you can seek advice.

Counselors Wear Many Hats

Guidance counselors are trained to be extremely sensitive and they clearly understand the need for confidentiality, especially when dealing with personal issues. But these education counselors are also trained to help students with more than just personal issues. Counselors are an excellent resource to ask about your course selection as well as career possibilities. If you are uncertain as to what class would best serve your course of study or proposed degree program, your college counselor can definitely help you sort through the various possibilities. If you are unclear as to what career options you want to focus on, your counselor can likely help with inventory tools that could give you key information to help with your decision.

Perhaps even more importantly, if your counselor cannot provide you with the education information you need, he or she will know where to turn for that information. Therefore your guidance counselor is likely to be your most valuable school resource during your college years.

Services Are Free to Students

Remember, these guidance services are part of the cost of your tuition when you pay to attend colleges and universities. Take full advantage of the expertise of these invaluable people and you will put yourself in the best position to be successful with your studies.

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