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July 26.2025

2 Minutes Read

Are High School Counselors Using AI to Transform College Applications?

Student and advisor discussing AI for college applications in library.

Are High School Counselors Embracing AI in College Applications?

The integration of Artificial Intelligence in education continues to spark conversations among counselors and students alike. With its increasing utilization, a growing number of high school counselors are reportedly leveraging AI technology to assist with college applications, particularly in crafting letters of recommendation—a process that can become burdensome due to the high student-to-counselor ratios.

Understanding the Shift Towards AI

Stephanie Nelson and Richard Tench, school counselors in North Carolina and West Virginia, respectively, represent a paradigm that might soon redefine how recommendations are written. Both counselors utilize a similar approach: they ask students to complete a “brag” sheet detailing their achievements and challenges. This data is then fed into Generative AI tools, enhancing the quality of their recommendations without sacrificing the personal touch. Nelson comments on the harmonious blend of technology with traditional methods, suggesting that AI is not a replacement but an enhancement of existing counseling techniques.

AI: A Double-Edged Sword

The enthusiasm surrounding AI in educational settings is mixed. With Nelson managing nearly 380 students and Tench estimating his letters at 120 to 150 annually, the pressure on counselors is immense. Tools like AI can alleviate some burdens, allowing for more efficient workload management. A report from foundry10 highlights that approximately one in three educational professionals, including students, report using AI for college-related writing tasks, illustrating a notable shift in university preparatory practices.

Challenges Ahead

However, this transition isn’t without its skepticism. Opinions vary among educators, many of whom are still unacquainted with technology. Riddhi Divanji, a co-author of a relevant study, emphasizes the dichotomy between tech-forward educators and those hesitant to embrace it. Whether high school counselors will fully adapt to using AI remains to be seen, but the potential remains for these tools to enhance educational outcomes significantly.

The Future Outlook for AI in Education

As educators and students navigate these uncharted waters, the insights into how AI tools are reshaping college application processes will be crucial. Schools may need to prioritize training to equip their staff with the necessary skills. The implementation of generative AI in this context suggests a transformative future that marries technology with personalized educational support, ultimately enhancing the student experience.

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Are High School Counselors Using AI to Transform College Applications?

Are High School Counselors Embracing AI in College Applications?

Understanding the Shift Towards AI

AI: A Double-Edged Sword

Challenges Ahead

The Future Outlook for AI in Education

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