Rita, Admission counselor at Arizona University: Advize Career Interview
A career in college admissions offers a dynamic and rewarding path, as revealed in an interview with Arizona University's Rita. The journey began with early internships and teaching experience, leading to over 15 years in education.
The role blends administrative tasks with engaging presentations and impactful family meetings, guiding students through the application process and beyond.
Strong communication and active listening are essential, alongside adaptability and a commitment to continuous learning in a constantly evolving field.
The most fulfilling aspect involves empowering students and families, unveiling possibilities and providing crucial resources, even if it means guiding students toward paths outside Arizona University.
Entry-level opportunities range from junior counselor positions to data analysis, allowing exploration of various counseling specializations.
A key lesson learned is the importance of transparency and guiding students toward the best fit, even if it means difficult conversations.
This fulfilling career allows a blend of education and mentorship, and requires proactive exploration through internships and shadowing to discover the right path.
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Rita Boogusch
Admission counselor
Arizona University
Fresno state university
National university, administration and education, emphasis counseling
Biology & Related Sciences
Education
Education
Scholarship Recipient, Took Out Loans, Transfer Student, Student Athlete, First Generation College Student
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Career Path of an Admission Counselor at Arizona University
Rita's career path began with internships in elementary and high schools, exploring a teaching path before discovering a stronger calling towards "counseling advising." This led to advising student athletes and leveraging their coaching background to mentor students, transitioning this experience into over 15 years in the education field.
Main Responsibilities of an Admission Counselor at Arizona University
Rita's main responsibilities as an Admission Counselor at Arizona University involve guiding approximately 300 students annually through the college application process, acting as "a resource person" to help students understand "pathways" and financial aspects of higher education. This includes educating students on various options beyond Arizona University and ensuring compliance with university guidelines, ultimately aiming to get students "where they need to be."
A Day In The Life Of An Admission Counselor At Arizona University
Rita's role as an Arizona University admissions counselor involves a mix of administrative tasks, "admin days," where compliance and emails are prioritized, and field work, including presentations, luncheons, and college fairs to educate prospective students. The most rewarding aspect, according to Rita, is conducting "family meetings," providing one-on-one guidance to students and parents on the university application process and campus visits.
Most Important Skills for an Admissions Counselor at Arizona University
For a successful career as an admissions counselor at Arizona University, strong communication skills, including public speaking and active listening, are paramount. The ability to "be a listening ear" and understand students' and families' backgrounds, including "the economic background," is crucial for effectively navigating the complexities of higher education admissions and providing valuable resources.
Favorite Parts Of Being An Admission Counselor At Arizona University
Rita, an Arizona University admissions counselor, most enjoys educating families about college options and financial aid, acting as "a resource person" to guide students toward the best pathway, even if it's not Arizona University. This role allows Rita to empower students and families by revealing "what is possible," an opportunity many lack access to.
Biggest Challenges Faced By An Admission Counselor At Arizona University
Rita's biggest challenge as an admissions counselor at Arizona University is "staying in compliance" and managing the competing demands of "each student's unique and different needs," requiring strong organizational skills and multitasking abilities. The fast-paced environment, with its constant changes and new initiatives, necessitates adaptability and a readiness to "run with it," highlighting the dynamic nature of higher education admissions.
Favorite Parts of Working in the Higher Education Industry as an Admission Counselor
Rita, an admissions counselor at a Christian-based university, finds the most rewarding aspect of her career to be "the tools and the perspective of education," particularly the increased openness allowing her to connect with students on a personal level, even incorporating prayer into conversations about educational pathways. This allows Rita to "be myself," which is a significant source of job satisfaction.
What Type Of Person Thrives In The Higher Education Industry, According To An Arizona University Admission Counselor
To thrive in the higher education admissions industry, a deep understanding of the "information" and a commitment to continuous learning are crucial, as the field is constantly evolving with "new programs, new stuff going on". Success requires a versatile "toolbox" of skills and an adaptable mindset to effectively address diverse situations.
What An Admission Counselor At Arizona University Wishes They Knew About Admissions
Rita, an admissions counselor at Arizona University, wishes they had known the multifaceted nature of the role beforehand, revealing that the job extends far beyond simply processing applications, encompassing "everything from admissions...to enrolling...to financial aid...to even living on campus." This broader scope, while initially surprising, allows for a more fulfilling career as an educator and mentor.
Entry-level Positions for Aspiring Admission Counselors at Arizona University
Entry-level positions in college admissions for undergraduates include "junior counselors," "advising," or "mentor" roles, and even data collection to understand the admissions process from "the backside." These roles offer experience in either admissions counseling, focusing on the educational process, or general counseling, which addresses mental health, allowing students to explore "what type of counseling" suits their interests.
Significant Career Lesson From an Admission Counselor at Arizona University
A significant lesson learned by the Arizona University admissions counselor is the importance of "being transparent with families," even if it means "turning students away" to ensure the best fit. This approach, coupled with a thorough understanding of alternative options like community colleges, fosters trust and ultimately benefits students and their families.
College Experiences That Helped An Admission Counselor At Arizona University Succeed
To prepare for a career in education, Rita gained experience through volunteering and internships, "just to see if that's something I would like to do," shadowing professionals in various roles to discover her passion for counseling. This proactive approach, Rita emphasizes, allowed her to avoid entering a career field she disliked and helped determine their ideal job path.
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