Gretchen D’Angelo
College Counselor / Manager of Academic Administration
YSC Academy (PA)

What drew you to the world of college admission counseling?
Wonderful colleagues, mentors, and chance. I am a certified school counselor and was originally drawn to the profession because I wanted to provide social-emotional support to students. I have often thought that people choose to become counselors either because they want to be the person they needed and didn’t have, or they want to pay it forward due to their own positive experiences. I am fortunate to have been in the latter group. Years ago, I met my professional mentor at my previous job, and she was a college counselor — one of the best in the business, if you ask me! She taught me everything, was so generous with her expertise, and we often collaborated on projects to support students through the college application process. I realized that the skills I had in helping students manage the social-emotional piece in the college process were critical to positive outcomes. When I got the opportunity to transition to the role of college counselor from school counselor, it felt like the right fit.

What is your favorite part of the job?
Working with young people is the best part of being a counselor. They are growing into adults and I remember “being them.” It’s such an important time period in a person’s development, and to know that I can have a positive impact on helping them through some of the tough parts is rewarding. I know my work matters. Plus, they are hilarious and keep me updated on what’s happening with the post-millennial generations.

How has NACAC played a role in your career?
NACAC has been essential to my success as a counselor. As a college counselor in a small independent school, I am not a member of a large department. I have been able to cultivate a network of colleagues with whom I can problem-solve, find camaraderie, continue to learn best practices, and relate to working in this field.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our profession today?
I find one of the biggest challenges in the work of college counselors is just the great complexity and intersection of needs among each individual student. The longer you work in counseling, the greater your capacity becomes to be prepared for the many new and unexpected scenarios that present themselves as culture evolves, students change, prices rise, and competition grows — among myriad other issues. This is why I especially like to collaborate with counselors both more senior than I am, and those newer to the profession. Approaching this work with an open mind, creativity, care, and individualized and relevant support is key.

When you aren’t working, what do you like to do?
I have small children, so when I am not working, I am spending much of my time with them and a great circle of friends who are in the same stage of life. I also am a podcast/audiobook enthusiast, experienced world traveler, and artist — plus I love to dabble in interior design and clothing styling.

What five words would you use to describe yourself?
Warm-hearted. Connector. “Go-To-Girl.” Creative. Curious.

 

Published Feb. 10, 2025