<p>I think High School College Counselors do have a very tough job. Teenagers are notoriously unrealistic, especially those who have yet to face any sort of disappointment in their lives. When they are coupled with parents who perpetuate the unrealism, these counselors have to be the bearer of bad news so that the student ends up with some choices come Spring.</p>
<p>Having said that, now that we have Naviance, and every college publishes a Common Data Set, the counselor does have a lot of ammunition. I mean what parent can argue with cold, hard facts? You can show the student/parents in one screen shot their approximate chances of being admitted to any one school. Now with recruited athletes there might be a little more leeway, but the stats and graphs are there staring you in the face.</p>
<p>If the parent or student still insists on applying to only 4 or 5 tippy top schools which are not supported by the child’s academic record, I would simply put my recommendations in writing and make sure it finds its way into their file. Then move on to the next student.</p>
<p>I am sure these counselors are more than frustrated being told how wrong they are every day. Then in the vast majority of cases they turn out to be right. I would find that cycle frustrating and de-moralizing.</p>