Comments from Chris Y: "The modules and webinars are very eye-opening in certain respect and certainly provide perspective. I think moving forward, I’ll be more adept and cognizant with identifying certain stages a prospective student may be in, and, in turn, can communicate more effectively with the methods and strategies that have been addressed in a variety of modules an webinars. Knowing what questions to ask, how to ask them as well as knowing what NOT to ask will improve my overall rapport and developing relationships with students. Putting questions into perspective from above the line or below the line was helpful. I appreciated the segment relating to shifting roles and viewing a student’s situation from all angles, whether it be as the counselor, as the student or as a 3rd party. I think as counselors, it’s innate for us to not perceive a student’s situation through a lens other than our own. It’s through such framework that progress, understanding, trust and appreciation can be reached by the students, which empowers them as they navigate the college process.

In general, I think my approach will evolve as I go by keeping the information I’ve absorbed and learned in mind with all the communications I have amongst students. I think my approach throughout my time as a counselor was more or less confined in a box in terms of structure and how I engaged with students. The lessons in these webinars and modules will make me more self-aware, thereby allowing me to adjust, modify or adapt my approach in engagement and relations from one student to the next. I have techniques I can now employ to help maintain and strengthen my relationships with students as I advise and guide them through the admissions process.

Most importantly, I can provide information to my students in the most advantageous way, which will allow them to make informed decisions with respect to their future academic pursuits, whether that be with Purchase or another institution. Ultimately, this knowledge will empower the students to make the best choice for themselves given with information and interactions we have with them as counselors."