Five Fun and Friendly Tips Every Counselor Can Share to Help Students Crush College Prep (With a Smile!)
As the new academic year rolls in, students across the world are getting ready for the exciting rollercoaster ride called college. While students are dreaming of freedom, late-night study sessions, and pizza at 2 a.m., many don’t realize the skills they need to actually survive and thrive once they arrive. Drawing from my student Srijana’s experience—a junior at UC Berkeley—here are five essential lessons counselors can help students master, while they are still in high school, all while keeping it fun.
1. Balancing Personal Life and Academics (Because You Can’t Live on Ramen and Netflix Alone)
Srijana remembers her first couple of weeks, juggling studying, socializing, and trying to keep a tiny plant alive—only to realize “Oh, I need sleep, too?” She quickly learned that overloading her schedule left her feeling more like a stressed-out squirrel than a confident student.
Counselor Tip: Teach students how to create a realistic schedule—think of it like meal planning but for your time. Encourage them to block out time for homework and fun (like, “Netflix marathon—just not all night”). Stress the importance of self-care—because crashing from exhaustion is not an Instagram-worthy look.
2. The Importance of Mental Health and Wellbeing (Because College Is Not All It’s Cracked Up to Be... Without Some Support)
Srijana faced moments where she felt so overwhelmed that she considered hiring a cup of coffee as her new best friend. She wishes she knew earlier that asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s survival. Campus resources like counseling and mental health groups are there for a reason!
Counselor Tip: Normalize talking about mental health—share stories of famous folks who needed therapy (yes, even superheroes). Encourage students to develop coping strategies—like mindfulness, or just taking a deep breath and reminding themselves that “This too shall pass,” preferably with a cup of tea.
3. The Power of Networking (No, You Don’t Have to Wear a Tux for Every Meeting)
Srijana was shy about talking to her professors at first—she feared she’d be bothering them, like that one friend who always borrows your hoodie but never returns it. But then she realized those relationships could lead to fantastic opportunities—like internships, research projects, or even someone to grab Taco Bell with at 1 a.m.
Counselor Tip: Teach students that networking isn’t about buttonholing strangers at parties; it’s about building genuine connections. Encourage them to practice small talk, maybe even with their dog (or goldfish)—both are great conversation starters!
4. Being Open to Trying New Things (Especially When They Seem Weird... Like Bubble Wrap Yoga)
College is the perfect place to discover new passions—whether it’s joining a weird club like “Competitive Sock Folding” or trying out that new dance class—no dancing skills required. Srijana initially hesitated to join the “Latin Dance Club,” worried she’d embarrass herself—turns out, she was the only one not doing the cha-cha.
Counselor Tip: Inspire students to embrace the “Yes, and…” philosophy—say yes to invitations, even if it sounds silly, because that’s how you make stories (and maybe friends for life). Share funny stories of students who found their true calling while trying something totally unexpected.
5. Good Budgeting Skills and Financial Management (Because Student Loans Are Not a Good Hobby)
Srijana learned the hard way that her daily Starbucks run quickly added up—she called it her “latte lifestyle,” until she realized that she’d need a part-time job just to keep her caffeine habit alive. Teaching budgeting early—like how to use that Excel sheet—can save a lot of headaches later.
Counselor Tip: Make financial literacy fun—consider using games or apps that turn budgeting into a challenge (“Can you survive the week on $20?”). Help students understand the importance of tracking expenses so they don’t end up living on instant noodles and unpaid bills.
In Conclusion
Counselors, your role isn’t just about grades and college essays—it's about preparing students for real life, with all its funny, stressful, but ultimately rewarding moments. By focusing on these five skills—balance, mental health, networking, openness, and financial smartness—you’re arming them with tools to handle whatever college throws their way (including that mysterious “midterm week” and their own procrastination instincts).
Remember, a little humor goes a long way—so sprinkle some laughs, stories, and encouragement along the way. Your support helps students like Srijana turn college from a scary leap into an exciting adventure they’re ready to enjoy—and maybe even survive with a few good jokes!
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