Charlotte Ward
School Counselor
Public School
Milestones
My road in life took a while to figure out.
Attended community college to start basics with intent to be a counselor, but wasn't sure what kind.
Transferred to Angelo State University, focusing on starting coursework to become a school teacher in order to become a school counselor.
Transferred to Texas Tech University to finish coursework because I followed my future husband. Lost some coursework that did not transfer.
Took three more years to finish my education program at TTU and worked full time.
Taught for 5 years as elementary teacher, but started Graduate School in my third year of teaching.
Attended two summer sessions and finished my Masters in less than two years, graduating in the winter of my final year of teaching.
Worked at the middle school level as a school counselor for six years.
Loved working with students towards goals of college and career readiness, so I moved to high school in order to work with students in those areas.
Education
High School
Career
School Counselor
I help students with their academic, social, emotional and behavioral needs.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Education
Non-Profit Organizations
Helping People
Day to Day
Being a school counselor entails no two days ever looking the same. There are counseling sessions, guidance lessons, paperwork, individual planning with students and parents, crisis response, assisting with things like testing and assemblies / events, professional development, etc. There is never a dull moment and always a person to help.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for everyone
I really do recommend that people explore their interests and complete a few different interest and career inventories. Once they know a direction in which to head, try to get exposure whether it's volunteering, interning, observing, or interviewing people in the career path they are pursuing.
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:
"College is expensive and you will not be able to afford it."
