Free Counselling to Study Abroad
Make-counseling work Seeking the advice of an academic or career counselor has become common practice today. However, students need to make sure they ask all the right questions, finds Sherin Mammen 1 have a diploma in fashion designing and want to set up my own boutique. How should I go about pursuing my dream?”This is just one of the many queries career counselors receive on a regular basis. In fact, most newspapers devote an entire page of their supplements for career guidance or educational counseling. Look up the yellow pages and you'll find numerous entries of counselors, with career counselors being the most prominent. The rise in career options and educational courses has led to an increase in demand for career and education counseling. But how do counselors really make a difference? Shouldn't a professional qualification, such as an MBA in finance or an engineering degree in computers, automatically suggests career options? "Most students choose careers based on academic grades, not on their strengths or passion. Since we spend most of our adult life at the workplace, it is important to find engaging jobs that will make us productive and emotionally competent," says Srividya Iyer, Head Counselor, Career Guidance, Young Buzz India Ltd. THE PROCESS According to Srividya, career counseling is the process of facilitating and empowering students towards making the right career decisions. Professional counselors use psychometric assessments to test the intelligence and aptitude of students."The process is in-depth and designed to provide the kind of motivation that can come only from a genuine understanding of why certain careers are likely to suit you better than others," adds Suchitra Surve, Director of Growth Center (I) Pvt Ltd. A career counselor helps you interpret your profile and identify career options for you; if you are a student, your parents might be requested to accompany you. At the end of the session, you will receive a report that explains suitable career options and their job descriptions. Most counselors also hold follow-up sessions for you if required. THE RIGHT COUNSELOR Remember, career or academic counselors only initiate a process; the onus is on you to take it forward and achieve your goal. Also, make sure your counselor is not taking you for a ride. An advertisement guaranteeing that perfect job, salary and growth prospects could often be misleading. So if you are thinking of going to a counselor, start by asking the right questions. WHY DO YOU NEED A COUNSELOR? If you haven't set your mind on pursuing a particular career and are confused by the options, you may need help. The Internet is a great place to look for information job sites can give you an idea of the various careers available in the market. You could take suggestions from your family and peers, but avoid getting influenced. If you still feel unsure, take professional help. Individuals who think they have hit a plateau or have lost the excitement in their present jobs could also seek help from a career counselor. A QUALIFIED COUNSELOR Shortlist a few counselors and check their credentials. Educational or career counselors should ideally be postgraduates in educational psychology or human development, or hold postgraduate diploma in guidance and counseling. However, credentials do not count as much as real life experience. If you want to go to a counselor to get specific information on a particular career, look for a counselor who specializes in that field. DOES YOUR COUNSELOR EVOKE CONFIDENCE? An effective counselor should give you top priority, make you feel comfortable and gain your trust. He should be able to answer most of your queries and provide accurate information on suitable jobs.
IS YOUR COUNSELOR OVERCHARGING YOU? Suchitra says, “Our fee for the entire session, which includes the psychometric assessment and counseling, does not cost more than Rs 650." Beware of a counselor who charges a huge up-front fee. Look for a non-profit or a government organization if you are not comfortable with the fee structure of private counselors. YOUR ROLE IN THE PROCESS No amount of counseling will work for you if you do not participate actively in the process. You may be asked to participate in exercises which will assess your skills and expertise. This is not to judge you but to help you improve your weaknesses and enhance your strengths. Also, make sure that you have fully grasped the implications of your counselor’s suggestions. Remember, a counselor can only show what could work for you- he cannot guarantee the perfect job.
Tell others about
this page:
Comments? Questions? Email Here