21/10/2026
In a previous life, I worked as a financial aid counselor for over 10 years. It's funny how we are thrown into this profession. Nevertheless, I believe this specific, intricate profession finds YOU. It is a calling for something higher.
That requires compassion, social work, interpersonal skills, patience, endurance the ability to know not only your job, but the job of an admissions counselor, student services coordinator, the listening skills of a therapist and the latest federal regulations.
We were kept on our toes, with the adaptability skill of a chameleon. This profession grew me, expanded me and cleared a path where every skill I learned, is being applied as I type this. I could never forget my years of service. Serving my students, their faces when I pushed the "button" by clearing a balance on their account or provided resources and solutions to assist with the balances or any of life's circumstances because "social work" was a part of the job.
Today, I can look back with rose colored glasses. Because I forgot the labor pains. However, peak season, regulations, extended work hours, the week students are dropped due to a balance.... which leads to Irate parents and students. It all still brings chills... where burnout becomes imminent.
Now that I am serving this population from a different position. The gifts and skills that were given to me in that previous life, I have transitioned from processing the student, to SEE-ing the student. Their dreams, worries, family dynamic, strongholds, barriers, gifts, career path, and interests as I am being used as a vessel in Christ.
I say all of this to say. Being a financial aid counselor is a beautiful journey and a great profession for the right individual. While you are serving your community in this profession, allow God to use you for all the reasons I listed above. I wished I knew then what I know now.
You are seen, you are helpful (more than you know) and your impact starts with the student who is infront of you.
