Educational Counselor and Advisor
SOC 21-1012.00 · ESCO 2359
Role snapshot
Overview
Educational Counselors and Advisors play a crucial role in supporting student success across various educational settings, from K-12 to higher education. They meet with students one-on-one to discuss academic goals, explore career options, and address personal challenges that may impact their learning and well-being. Key responsibilities include administering assessments to identify strengths and needs, tracking student progress, developing personalized academic and career plans, and connecting students to essential resources such as tutoring, mental health services, or financial aid. This role focuses on holistic student development, guiding individuals through critical educational and life transitions.
Empowers students to achieve their academic and career aspirations, fosters personal growth, and creates supportive learning environments by providing guidance, resources, and advocacy.
On the job
- Conduct one-on-one counseling sessions with students to discuss academic, career, and personal issues
- Develop and monitor individualized academic and career plans, ensuring students meet educational requirements
- Administer and interpret career and academic assessments to identify student strengths and interests
- Refer students to specialized support services, including mental health, academic support, or financial aid
- Collaborate with teachers, faculty, parents, and administrators on student progress and well-being
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
StableDemand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.
Education & training
A Bachelor's degree in counseling, psychology, education, or a related field is often required, with a Master's degree in school counseling, educational psychology, or a related mental health field typically preferred or mandated for certification/licensure.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Educational Counselor and Advisor
Mental Health
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
social · SCE
Individuals who enjoy helping others, organizing information, and guiding students through educational and career decisions often find fulfillment in this role.
Personality characteristics
Curious Learner
Eager to explore new counseling techniques, educational resources, and diverse student needs to enhance support.
Organized Planner
Systematically tracks student progress, maintains accurate records, and develops structured academic and career plans.
Engaging Communicator
Enjoys interacting with a wide range of students, faculty, and parents, building rapport and facilitating discussions.
Empathetic Supporter
Naturally compassionate and understanding, focused on students' well-being and building trust through genuine care.
Calm Under Pressure
Manages student crises and challenging situations with a steady demeanor, providing reassurance and stability.
Best for
- People passionate about student development and well-being.
- Professionals who thrive in structured, yet people-focused, environments.
- Those who enjoy problem-solving and connecting individuals with appropriate resources.
- Individuals who find fulfillment in guiding others through educational and life transitions.
Watch out for
- Can involve emotionally challenging situations, including student crises and sensitive personal issues.
- Requires balancing multiple student cases and administrative duties, which can be demanding.
- May involve navigating complex family dynamics or institutional policies, requiring diplomacy and problem-solving.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Educational Counselor and Advisor — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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