Milestones
My road in life has been direct.
In high school, I knew I wanted a job that helped others. I thought about being a nurse but after shadowing a family member- I decided to start focusing on education.
Elementary education was my career path when I started college but I wish I had given myself the opportunity to explore all different age levels and jobs within education.
I was an elementary teacher for 8 years, but early on I knew I wanted to advance my career by getting a master’s degree.
I started my master’s in Reading Intervetion but quickly changed to counseling because I was so compelled to help the students I saw struggling with emotional and social problems.
I worked full time and went to school in the evening for 3 full years to get my master’s degree.
I was able to get a job as a school counselor and have loved every minute of it.
Education
High School
Graduate
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services
Indiana University-Purdue University-Fort Wayne
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services
Indiana University-Purdue University-Fort Wayne
Career
School Counselor
I work directly with students to help them learn about and develop academic, career and emotional / social skills.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Education
Writing
Helping People
Day to Day
I start my day before the students get to school. I typically send emails and consult with staff before school starts. When the students come I supervise students and greet them to start their day off right. Throughout the day, I work on scheduling, see students Individually, see students in groups, am present in the cafeteria, teach lessons, help with testing, help when a crisis might occur, support teachers, meet with administration and work on anything relating to student needs.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for everyone
Try to visit a teacher or counselor you’ve connected with in the past and ask to shadow them for the day. Get a feel for what they really do all day and ask lots of questions!
Recommended Education
My career is related to what I studied. I'd recommend the path I took:
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Society in General:
"People often said not to go into education because of tough media against teachers & counselors and a lack of funds."
Challenges I Overcame
Financial
Interviewed By
