RI College Counselor

Job Title

2026-27 RI College Counselor

Rhode Island

2026-27

The College Counselor will ensure that 100% of seniors apply and are accepted to the best‑fit four‑year colleges or universities. The Counselor begins working with scholars and their families in the spring of their junior year, guiding them through the entire college application process, including college list creation, application essays, supplemental essays, financial aid applications, interviews, and decision‑making. Strong knowledge of college admissions and financial aid processes, entrepreneurial spirit, and excellent research, networking, and communication skills are essential.

Job reporting:
Directly to the Dean of College.

• Support and guide 12th grade students through each step of the college and financial aid application process.
• Provide one‑on‑one counseling to 40‑45 seniors, helping with college list development, personal statement writing, financial aid advice, and matriculation decisions.
• Work closely with parents and guardians, including evening workshops and meetings.
• Ensure students utilize special opportunities for low‑income students such as fee waivers, campus visits, partner programs, and scholarships.
• Maintain deadlines and goals related to college partnerships using the AF College and Alumni Report Card.

• Plan and lead workshops for parents on financial aid planning, types of institutions, scholarships, etc.
• Ensure parents and students understand application requirements, deadlines, admissions policies, and financial aid processes.
• Manage letters of recommendation for seniors, including coaching teachers on the process.

• Contact and meet with campus admissions representatives to build positive relationships and market AF applicants.
• Familiarize with academic and social environments at colleges to recommend suitable matches.
• Develop and maintain a robust network of college admission professionals through communication and visits.

• Assist with administration of SAT assessments (PSAT and SAT).
• Participate in planning overnight college trips for seniors.
• Collaborate with other team members to align summer opportunities and gather feedback.
• Support projects and duties assigned by the Dean of College.
• Additional duties as assigned.

• Participate in school‑wide professional development, grade‑level teams, and school‑specific duties.
• Support and participate in school activities and programming.
• Serve as an advisor for a group of 15‑18 students.

• Urgent work in a fast‑paced, results‑oriented environment.
• Ability to juggle multiple tasks and initiatives.
• Detail‑oriented and self‑directed with accountability to deadlines.
• Strong analytical and written communication skills.
• Initiator, problem‑solver, and creative thinker.
• Ability to maintain emotional control under stress.
• Proficiency with MS Office programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Ability to work well with students, families, and school staff.
• Commitment to Achievement First mission and core values.
• Openness to giving and receiving feedback.
• Team collaboration skills.
• Dedication to professional growth.

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four‑year institution.
• Previous experience in high school counseling and/or college admissions required.
• High school teaching or counseling experience strongly preferred.

• Competitive salary range: $56,259 - $66,874 based on experience.
• Benefits include medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• 403(b) retirement benefit with match and paid family leave.