Blog #12

           The first thing I read in Chapter 12 was the case study about Kanika’s Conundrum.  I couldn’t help but notice the fact that I am going to be in the same conundrum in about a year or so.  I keep trying to be positive and focus on the fact that the economy is coming back and the job market is going to get better.  I really wish and hope that all of us get the jobs that we want.  I know that I need to keep an open mind and also think about relocating if I would have to.  In a perfect world, I would get a counseling job in a high school within a year after I graduate.  In a not so perfect world, I will either have to “settle” for another counseling job, or I will be unemployed or working part-time somewhere.  The important thing for me is that I need to be okay with all of those options and not stress about it.  Okay, I am done venting now.

            It was interesting to read about all of the differences in the ASCA National Model relating to elementary, middle school, and high school.  Because of my interests in career exploration, transitioning into adulthood, and working with older students, I was naturally attracted to the high school delivery system section.  Many people that I talk to seem to have a negative opinion about working with middle school students.  However, I am open to it, and truly believe that my skills would also greatly benefit students at that age.  I also love a challenge, so it would be fun for me in a way.  I know that I can definitely see the benefits of me working with older students.  I tend to believe that I would not be as effective with the younger students (elementary age), mainly because I do not have much experience with them.  That may change after my practicum.  I just look at someone like Lisa and think “she will be amazing with young kids”.  However, my personality is much different than Lisa’s, and I have my doubts whether I will be able to be the best counselor for children at that age. 

            Whatever school or age group I end up working with, I ultimately hope for two things.  First, I hope that I “matter” to all stakeholders, but especially to the students.  I hope that I feel like I “matter” to the school and to myself.  Second, I hope that I love my job, regardless of the level of stress, the politics, or the BS that comes along with it.  At the end of the day, if I am enjoying what I am doing, I will be happy.

Dollarhide, C.T., & Saginak, K.A. (2012). Comprehensive school counseling programs (2nd Ed.). New York: Pearson, Inc.

Rayle, A. (2006). Do school counselors matter? Mattering as a moderator between job stress and job satisfaction. Professional School Counseling, 9(3), 206-215.