Jennifer Brase
Dean of College Counseling
Pacifica Christian High School Orange County (CA)
What drew you to the world of college admission counseling?
Like many NACAC members, I started as an admissions counselor at my alma mater. I had tried the corporate world and didn’t like it and wanted to pursue a career in something that was meaningful to me. I loved my undergraduate experience, so it was natural to want others to experience what I had experienced. Additionally, my admission counselor was so kind and helpful that I wanted to follow in his footsteps. After transitioning to the high school side, I found working with students to help them find the right college fit was a perfect career fit for me.
What is your favorite part of the job?
Building relationships with students and their families in a pivotal time in their lives is my favorite part of the job. I enjoy helping them understand the application process, showing them all the opportunities that exist beyond the brand name colleges, and discovering the college that fits them the best. I also enjoy the camaraderie that exists in the profession through NACAC and WACAC. The passionate professionals who I have met through these affiliations are people who I greatly admire.
How has NACAC played a role in your career?
Early in my career, I joined WACAC and NACAC and attended some trainings for new counselors. Eventually, I served on various committees where I met people who took me under their wing to mentor me. I learned so much from these gracious mentors who took time out of their everyday lives to answer my phone calls and numerous questions. These mentors showed me that there was a future in admissions/college counseling after working for my alma mater.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our profession today?
The price of tuition at colleges and universities throughout the country is the biggest challenge facing our profession. Even with financial aid, middle- and upper-middle-class families are unable to afford college without taking on substantial debt. My hope is that colleges will find innovative ways to tackle this challenge.
When you aren’t working, what do you like to do?
Most of my time outside of work is spent with the people I Iove, including my husband, adult children, extended family, and close friends. I enjoy hosting them at my house where I try out new recipes. On Thursday evenings you’ll find me at church where I mentor a group of college-aged women. Being outdoors is life-giving to me whether it is a day at the beach, a run on the trails by my house, or a walk around my neighborhood with my dog.
What five words would you use to describe yourself?
Mentor. Responsible. Joyful. Collaborative. Intentional.
Published June 24, 2024