Next Step Conversations: An Examination of High School Counselor Influence on the College and Career Planning Process

Abstract

High school counselors play an integral part in a student’s development. They are, in many cases, the first people to have conversations with students about life after high school. With that in mind, this study focused on how high school counselors view their role in the college and career planning process. Individual interviews were conducted to understand counselors’ experiences in the profession, their professional and educational backgrounds, and how they equip themselves to support students and families. This narrative research study examined interview transcripts and used thematic analysis to identify key factors influencing counselors' interactions with students pursuing postsecondary options. The study reveals the connectiveness of the profession and how each participant’s journey impacts how they advise students in the college and career planning process. It also shows that investment in high school counselors is needed at many levels, as they support and guide the next generation of workers. The interviews suggested the need for intentional, long-term investments in high school counselors. They also propose engaging multiple stakeholders who provide an array of service opportunities that ultimately support positive student outcomes.