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College is a blast. But before you get to college, you have to figure out which school is right for you. It’s a big decision. The person who guides students to the best school for them is an enthusiastic, knowledgeable admissions counselor.
Admissions counselors are essentially HR specialists for universities. They are the administrative, marketing, and recruitment people of the academic world. It’s their job to help set students up for success and to advise and to guide students to the right college or university.
Every college and university has admissions counselors on staff. These enthusiastic recruiters are full of in-depth knowledge about the university. They can answer any question about the admissions process, academic programs, scholarships, tuition, financial aid programs, alumni networks, student housing, or sports teams. They share this information with aspiring students in hopes of recruiting the right people for the school.
The goal of an admissions counselor is to recruit prospective students to the university. They want students to see what the school is all about and to make sure that it’s the right fit for them. To do this, admissions counselors must be strong communicators. They are constantly speaking in front of groups, writing letters and emails, listening to students, and marketing the school. To be successful, they must truly believe in their higher education institution.
There are thousands of different colleges and universities for students to choose from. To help spread the word about their school, admissions counselors must develop effective recruitment strategies. This includes organizing recruitment events, providing information sessions, making public presentations, working at college fairs, utilizing alumni, and having a strong online presence.
At recruitment events, admissions counselors speak to prospective students and parents. They answer questions and provide information. They also must follow up with students and help guide them through the application and admissions process. The job requires a lot of travel as admissions counselors put on these events locally, regionally, and nationwide.
Depending on the size of the university or college, admission counselors may also do other things. This includes evaluating the recruitment process, making admission decisions, reading essays and applications, reviewing resumes, interviewing applicants, providing campus tours, or offering an insider’s perspective.
To become an admissions counselor you need to enjoy promoting higher education. Some aspiring admissions counselors gain experience at smaller colleges or high schools before moving up to the university level. No specific degree is required to be an admissions counselor, although many focus on communications. Most career focused admissions counselors join the National Association for College Admission Counseling to stay up to date on the industry.
Not every admission counselor takes the traditional path. In fact, many admissions counselors fall into the job by accident. Student ambassadors, campus tour guides, and university alumni find that it’s easy to transition into being an admissions counselor. Who wouldn’t want to promote the school that they support and love?
Admissions counselors usually work for the Office of Admissions at a college or university. Once employed, they can make between $26,000 to $47,000 per year.
Working in the college world, you get to meet new people daily. It’s a great way to stay fresh. If you love helping people achieve their dreams and want a steady job, then apply for an admissions counselor job today.
Quick Facts About Admissions Counselors
Job Title: Admissions Counselors aka Admissions Officers
Office: Recruitment Events, College Campuses, Offices
Description: Recruit the right students and promote the university
Certifications/Education: None required
Necessary Skills: Enthusiastic, People person
Potential Employers: University and College Office of Admissions
Pay: $26,000 to $47,000 per year