College Counselor

As a College Counselor at Democracy Prep Public School, your primary responsibility will be to guide a cohort of 12th-grade scholars through the entire college application and financial aid process. This includes assisting students in creating college lists, refining personal statements, advising on financial aid applications like FAFSA and CSS Profile, and writing detailed letters of recommendation. You'll also engage families through workshops and events to raise awareness of college options and provide application assistance.

To qualify for the College Counselor position at Democracy Prep Public School, candidates should ideally possess a Bachelor’s degree and have experience as a high school counselor or college admissions representative. Knowledge of college admissions processes and financial aid is essential. Strong writing skills for creating student recommendations and effective communication skills to collaborate with various stakeholders will also be highly valued.

Democracy Prep Public School supports its College Counselors by providing a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, vision, and dental insurance, parental leave, and equipment like a smartphone and laptop. Furthermore, you’ll have access to resources and training that will help you stay informed about the college admissions landscape, allowing you to provide the best support to our scholars.

The salary range for a College Counselor at Democracy Prep Public School is between $70,000 and $137,000, depending on your experience. This competitive compensation reflects our commitment to valuing the essential role that counselors play in the educational journey of our scholars.

Democracy Prep Public School offers a unique opportunity for College Counselors due to its strong mission of supporting scholars' college success and civic engagement. With a focus on inclusivity and collaboration, you’ll work within a diverse team dedicated to ensuring 100% of seniors are not only applying to college but also attending a school that fits their needs. This environment encourages personal and professional growth while making a significant impact on students' futures.

When creating college lists, I focus on understanding each student’s unique interests, academic strengths, and career aspirations. I consider a wide range of factors, including the academic fit, campus culture, available support services, and financial aid options. Engaging in one-on-one conversations helps me ensure that the colleges selected align with the student’s goals and needs.

My experience with financial aid includes guiding students through FAFSA and CSS Profile completion, explaining various financial aid packages, and helping families evaluate their options. I strive to ensure that students and families are informed and empowered to make financially sound matriculation decisions.

I believe that communication is key when working with families. I utilize a variety of methods, including newsletters, workshops, and informational sessions, to keep families informed about important deadlines and opportunities. I ensure my communication is clear, comprehensive, and supportive, addressing any questions they may have about the process.

Building relationships with college admissions representatives involves consistent engagement and collaboration. I attend college fairs, workshops, and networking events, and I frequently follow up with admissions offices to stay informed about their programs and initiatives. This allows me to effectively advocate for my students and provide them with the best possible guidance.

During peak application seasons, I prioritize my tasks and maintain open lines of communication with both students and families. I also encourage a supportive environment within the school, collaborating with colleagues to ensure that our students have access to additional resources. Practicing self-care is vital as well, keeping me focused and effective in my role.

When writing recommendations, I ensure to gather detailed insights about each student’s achievements and aspirations. I take the time to meet with them, ask questions, and understand their unique stories, allowing me to create personalized letters that genuinely reflect their potential and character, ultimately helping them stand out in the admissions process.

I stay updated on changes in the college admissions landscape through continuous professional development, attending conferences, and participating in webinars. Additionally, I engage with professional networks and online forums where I can learn from fellow educators and share best practices, ensuring I’m providing the most relevant information to my students.

In a previous role, I had a student who faced challenges in meeting a college’s admission requirements due to unique circumstances. I collaborated closely with both the student and the college admissions team, presenting a compelling case that highlighted the student’s strengths and circumstances. This advocacy resulted in the student receiving an application waiver, which ultimately helped them secure a spot at their dream school.

To help students with personal statements, I guide them through brainstorming sessions where they can explore their experiences and aspirations. I emphasize storytelling and reflection, encouraging them to articulate their unique identities and motivations. Through multiple drafts and constructive feedback, we work together to refine their narratives, ensuring they resonate with admissions committees.

I measure the success of my college counseling efforts by tracking key metrics such as the percentage of students who apply to college, the diversity of schools they choose, and their retention rates in college. Additionally, I collect feedback from students and families on their counseling experience, using their input to continuously refine and improve the support I provide.