What would you change about college admissions? In a perfect world, what would college admissions look like? What worthwhile change can you bring to the landscape of college counseling from your curre

Michael Forbes, a student from a struggling public school in Brooklyn, faced a difficult decision regarding his college admissions. Despite being accepted to prestigious colleges with significant funding, he chose to attend Brooklyn College instead. His decision was influenced by his responsibilities at home, as he cared for his mother, who was ill, and his younger brothers. This situation complicated what appeared to be a straightforward choice, highlighting the challenges faced by students in similar circumstances.

Josh, now a college counselor after leaving a private school, aims to guide students like Mike toward accessible colleges that promote growth. He advocates for residential liberal arts colleges but recognizes the practicality of Mike attending CUNY for its easier application process and local support network. Throughout their time together, Josh aided Mike with application tasks but now faces the challenge of helping him balance future aspirations with family responsibilities. The general lack of guidance for American high school students in college admissions is highlighted, emphasizing the need for comprehensive support for low-income students, including college matching, essay assistance, and financial aid navigation.

Students face significant psychological challenges during the college application process, particularly low-income individuals who need more than just information; they require mentors for personal struggles before and after acceptance. Effective college counseling is crucial, as seen in Mike's experience, where individualized support led him to Skidmore College despite initial doubts. Many public school students lack this guidance, hindering their educational goals. To promote equity in higher education, every student should have access to dedicated college counselors who can provide meaningful support and advocacy.