To celebrate National School Counselor week, we wanted to learn more about earch of the women who help support our students and staff every day!  Today we are featuring our 6th Grade Counselor, Mrs. Amy Schmidt.

Where did you go to college?

Northern Michigan University in Marquette, MI for my teaching degree and Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo,  MI for my counseling degree.

Did you always want to be a school counselor? Or did you want to do something else?

I was a teacher before I became a counselor. My love for helping kids led me into counseling.

Why did you decide to become a school counselor?

I always knew in my heart that I wanted to work with children that needed help. Not all children come from a stable and supportive environment.  I want to be an outlet for children who need a safe place.

What’s your favorite thing about being a counselor?

I think my favorite part is helping a student overcome a challenge or obstacle. My goal in working with children is that,  after talking with me, they leave feeling better and more prepared for their future, then they did when they came in. Working as a school counselor is a very fulfilling career.

A lot of people are struggling right now – what’s your best “counselor advice” for getting through hard times?

I think my best advice for people who are struggling right now is to only focus on what you can control, take care of yourself first and if you need help…ask. Finally, in good times and in bad, treat others how you want to be treated.