What role does a school counselor play in a student's career exploration journey?

The role of a school counselor in a student's career exploration journey is fundamentally rooted in guiding students to discover their own interests, strengths, and values. This process includes helping students set achievable and meaningful goals that align with their personal aspirations and abilities.

Counselors support students through a variety of activities such as assessments, discussions about career options, and providing resources about various fields. This guidance allows students to make informed decisions about their futures, fostering a sense of agency in their career paths. By focusing on individual students and their unique qualities, counselors help nurture self-awareness and confidence, which are crucial for success in future education and career endeavors.

This contrasts with other roles that might limit a student's agency or focus solely on external factors, such as job market trends, or direct them toward specific paths without considering their personal goals. The emphasis in proper career counseling is on the student’s personal development and exploration, making the guidance provided by school counselors an important aspect of their overall educational experience.