Self-Care for College Counselors: Finding Balance During Application Season
Self-Care for College Counselors: Finding Balance During Application Season
Lisa Clay, The Out-of-Door Academy
September 23, 2024
As the leaves start to turn and the school year gains momentum, college application season kicks into high gear. For college counselors, this time can feel like a whirlwind of personal statements, deadlines, and late-night essay reviews. While guiding students through this pivotal moment in their lives is fulfilling, it’s crucial to prioritize self-care amid the hustle. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup.
The Importance of Self-Care
Self-care isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a necessary practice for maintaining your mental, emotional, and physical well-being, especially in a demanding role like counseling. When you’re juggling numerous student and family needs, the pressure can easily mount. When you’re at your best, you’re better equipped to guide them through this stressful journey. (Even better… Modeling self-care behavior for students not only demonstrates the importance of prioritizing their own well-being but also equips them with valuable tools to manage stress and maintain balance during their academic journeys!)
Tips for Self-Care During Application Season
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Set Boundaries
As counselors, it’s easy to feel the weight of your students’ aspirations on your shoulders. However, establishing clear boundaries is essential. Designate specific hours that you’re available for students and when it’s time to unplug. This will help you carve out precious time for self-care activities. -
Prioritize Short Breaks
During busy days, it can be tempting to skip breaks in the name of productivity. Resist that urge! Short breaks—whether it’s a quick walk outside or just brief check-in with your work BFF—can refresh your mind and help you return to work with renewed focus. -
Stay Connected
Remember, you’re not alone in this. Connect with your fellow counselors and share experiences. Sometimes, just knowing that others are in the same boat can alleviate stress. BTW, NACAC in LA is a perfect time to re-charge and take time to connect with old and new friends.
Making Time for Your Favorite Humans
While you’re busy caring for your students, don’t forget about those who care for you. Family, friends, and loved ones can be incredible sources of support, but they also need your attention. Here are some ways to ensure you’re nurturing those relationships:
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Schedule Quality Time
Just as you schedule meetings with students, schedule time with loved ones. Whether it’s a weekend brunch, a movie night, or a simple phone call, intentionality is key. Mark those dates on your calendar and treat them as non-negotiable. -
Share Your Journey
Open up about the challenges you face during application season. Your loved ones may not fully grasp your role, but sharing your experiences can foster understanding and create opportunities for them to support you in meaningful ways. -
Involve Them in Self-Care
Find activities you can do together that promote relaxation and joy. This could be anything from cooking a meal together or watching your favorite K-Drama. Engaging in self-care with loved ones can deepen your relationships while also providing a necessary respite from work.
Reward Yourself
Amid the chaos, it’s important to carve out time for rewards. Treat yourself to something special as a way to recharge or celebrate millstones. Indulging in a nice dinner at your favorite restaurant, spending an evening with a good book that’s been on your reading list, or hanging out with your seven dogs allows you to unwind and disconnect from work for a little while. Every year, my husband supports my insane plan of working on all of my letters of recommendation in the summer. In turn, this affords us time for a quick getaway with friends in the fall. These little rewards can give you something to look forward to and help alleviate the pressures of the season.
Remember
As a college counselor, the application season will undoubtedly bring its share of stress and challenges. However, by prioritizing self-care and nurturing your relationships with loved ones, you can not only survive this busy time but thrive in it. So, as you dive into the season ahead, make a commitment to yourself: take a breath, step back, and embrace the journey. Your well-being—and your students—will thank you for it.
Continuing on this theme of self-care, if you will be at NACAC 2024, here are Los Angeles eateries recommended by our members so that you can step away from professional development and nourish yourself:
Sara Miranda (Chadwick School) recommends: Bottega Louie, Truly LA, The Girl & The Goat
Briana Barkin (deToledo High School) recommends: Cassia and Proper in Santa Monica
Priyanka Singh (Pacific Ridge School) recommends: Granville, El Cocinero (L.A. Valley - best vegan tacos ever), Dr. Sandwich, Night + Market in WeHo
Ben Brown (Holland Hall) recommends: the craw mac deluxe at Little Jewel of New Orleans
Yetunde Daniels Rubinstein (formerly at Brentwood School) recommends: Post and Beam, Blossom Market, Alta Adams, Locol, Hilltop
Other resources:
NACAC AAPI SIG's AAPI-owned L.A. restaurants & eateries (organized by distance from the convention center and some colleges!)
Elliot Shavalian (Milken Community School) recommends KCRW public radio's list of 60 fantastic Black-owned L.A. restaurants