A new semester brings unique stresses to counselors
As the new semester starts, it almost feels like a new year. New classes, new teachers, new people. But we aren’t all satisfied with our schedules, and that puts a huge load on the counselors.
Students are constantly leaving and coming from the counselors offices. Many seem stressed out. They need their classes changed. “We get it,”says student counselor Mark Jones, “We get our audience. We know we work with teenagers who change their minds 50 times a day.”
Even though schedule changing is not that hard, it’s stressful. Especially for the counselors. “If students make a bigger effort to check and change their schedules and get in there early, its easier for everyone.” “It’s a balancing act for us. We want to make sure we are available for every kid.” Jones says, “Its hard to balance the pressure because kids’ regular lives don’t stop for the end of a term. Our regular job doesn’t stop.”
“It’s gotten a lot better over the years, it’s not as hectic as it used to be. With technology, and kids being on the same page as us with how important their schedule is, helps.” Even though it’s a struggle for the first couple of weeks for most everyone, it all gets settled and flows into the normal rhythm of school life.