Applying to US universities: resources for counsellors
Sharing insights, resources and best practice with other counsellors is good for the profession as a whole, says Augusto Neto
Augusto Neto
You may also like
Collegial collaboration within the counselling community – internationally as well as locally – sets us apart from many other professional fields.
Close partnership with others in our profession enables us to provide comprehensive support to students and families navigating the university-application process. By sharing insights, resources and best practice, we enhance our collective knowledge, improve our guidance strategies and ensure that our students receive well-rounded assistance tailored to their individual needs and aspirations.
1. THE CAP
The Times Higher Education Counsellor Accreditation Programme (THE CAP) is an accreditation programme for counsellors by counsellors, run in partnership with leadership development provider Common Purpose. It aims to provide school counsellors with world-class professional development entirely free of charge.
The programme has been driven by the THE International Schools Advisory Board, whose members play a pivotal role in shaping the course structure and content.
2. NACAC and IACAC
The National Association for College Admission Counselling (NACAC) is a professional organisation in the United States that supports and provides resources to college admissions counsellors and professionals. Its mission is to promote high standards and ethical practices in the college admissions process.
NACAC offers various resources and services to its members, including conferences, professional development opportunities, publications and networking platforms. The association also sets guidelines and standards for admissions practices, and advocates for policies that benefit students and promote access to higher education.
IACAC – the International Association for College Admission Counselling – is the international chapter of NACAC. It serves as a platform for college admissions professionals outside the United States to connect, share best practice and collaborate on international admissions issues. IACAC provides resources and networking opportunities to its members, with a focus on the unique challenges and considerations related to international admissions.
Being a member of NACAC and IACAC offers several benefits to counsellors. These are as follows:
a. Professional development
NACAC and IACAC provide numerous professional development opportunities, including conferences, workshops, webinars and training sessions. These events offer counsellors the chance to enhance their knowledge and skills, stay up to date with current trends and best practices in the field of college admissions, and expand their professional networks.
b. Resources and tools
Both organisations offer a wide range of resources, publications, research materials and online tools to their members. These resources can assist counsellors in their daily work, provide guidance on ethical practices, offer insights into the admissions process and keep them informed about policy changes and updates.
c. Networking and collaboration
NACAC and IACAC facilitate networking opportunities where counsellors can connect with colleagues, exchange ideas and collaborate on common challenges. Building a professional network within these organisations allows counsellors to gain support, share experiences and access mentorship opportunities.
d. Advocacy and influence
By becoming members of NACAC and IACAC, counsellors can contribute to the collective voice of the profession. These organisations advocate for policies that support students, promote fair and ethical admissions practices and work towards improving access to higher education. As members, counsellors can actively participate in these advocacy efforts and help shape the future of college-admissions counselling.
e. Access to information
NACAC and IACAC serve as valuable sources of information on a wide range of topics related to college admissions counselling. They provide updates on admission trends, legal and ethical issues, financial aid, diversity and inclusion and other relevant areas. Staying connected to these organisations ensures that counsellors have access to accurate and timely information that can benefit their work with students.