Professional Title: Professional School Counselor

Class Year: 2010 and 2013

Major: Technology Education B.S. (2010) School Counseling M.S. (2013)

Location: Prince Georges County, MD

Education Experience: 8 years

Please share your experience working with students during the pandemic?

Virtually working with high school students during this pandemic has been challenging to say the least. As a counselor, I pride myself in building a rapport and having an inviting atmosphere with my students and parents. We have now been limited to impersonal emails. I utilize google classroom however that feels like another course on their schedule. Telehealth is also an option; once you complete all of the paperwork for consent. Zoom has been a saving grace though. I am able to quickly meet with students who express concerns or simply need a mental break from class. As I am assisting seniors who are applying to college, I am intrigued at the percentage of students reconsidering staying close to home. Assessment options such as the ASVAB and SAT/ACT are not readily available due to the school closure. I can say that I have seen a decline in the request for one to one counseling compared to being in the school building. I have also seen an increase in parent engagement in regards to their child’s education.

What advice would you give to people during this pandemic?

We are now entering the time where people experience mood changes, commonly referred to as Seasonal Depression. So if you are working from home, try to have a schedule. Getting out of bed, putting on clothes, and having a designated work area can help overall performance and your attitude towards work. Pick up the phone and call a family member or friend. Those little conversations in the office are no longer an option. Take a walk in the park or have a virtual game night. Everyone’s comfort level will vary however continue to interact with others as much as possible.