A career as a guidance counselor can provide a great deal of satisfaction to the right individual, as it is possible to observe how you are making a difference in students' lives. Guidance counselor Adam Colantuoni told the Tewksbury Advocate that his favorite part of the job is "watching the kids grow and watching them put themselves out there, take risks and blossom". After being inspired to pursue the profession by a former counselor who helped him through a difficult period, Mr Colantuoni explained that his greatest motivation is inspiring young people to realize how "they can make a difference" themselves. School counselors help students evaluate their abilities, interests, personalities and talents, as well as advising those who have social development problems or other special needs. A master's degree is usually required for a counselor to obtain a license, although some states accept a bachelor's degree with relevant training instead. Courses in the subject may include human growth and development, assessment, research and program evaluation, and professional identity. The Department of Labor predicts faster than average growth among opportunities in the sector over the ten-year period ending with 2016. The most recent data from the department indicates that counselors earn a median salary of $47,530 - however, this figure could vary based on experience, employer and location.  |