Additional Information
There is no formal training for college admissions counselors. However,
students wanting to work in this field are expected to have at least a bachelor's
degree in any discipline -- engineering, classical English literature or even
physics.
If students want to move up the ladder in the admissions department, they
may require a master's degree, particularly for larger international universities.
The important thing is that they know how the university or college operates.
"Most people start out working for their alma mater," says Donna Raczynski,
who has several years of experience in the field. "A lot of the time, the
people who go into the field have been tour guides, or university ambassadors,
or do a lot of hosting on behalf of the school. It's great experience."
Employers look for counselors who have very strong communication skills.
They may be required to do public speaking, and write letters, brochures or
ad copy on behalf of the university.
Raczynski also recommends having up-to-date computer skills, plus knowing
a bit about reading statistics in order to interpret enrollment figures. It
also doesn't hurt to have a well-rounded personal background.
"You have to know a lot about various careers," she says. "What if a student
comes in and asks, 'What do I do with this degree?'"