One of the things students don’t always realize is that admission counselors don’t review applications in a vacuum. When I have questions about a student’s high school, whether it’s the curriculum, grading policies, or the opportunities available, I often reach out to their school counselor or teachers to learn more. Those conversations provide context that isn’t always visible on a transcript.
They’ve also reminded me of something important: the relationships you build throughout high school matter far beyond the college application process. They help others understand who you are, they provide guidance when you’re making important decisions, and they prepare you to build a network of mentors throughout your life.
Build Relationships That Help Others Understand Who You Are
Grades tell us how you performed in a course. Teachers and counselors see something much more meaningful. They see your curiosity, your work ethic, how you respond to challenges and how you’ve grown over time.
These are the moments that shape their understanding of you: when you are asking a thoughtful question after class, contributing to a class discussion, stopping by your counselor’s office to talk about your interests, or sharing a challenge you’ve worked through. While these interactions may seem small, they help teachers and counselors get to know you as a person, not just as another student on their roster.
As an admission counselor, I learn so much from recommendation letters because they reveal qualities that a transcript simply cannot. The strongest letters don’t just describe a student’s academic performance, they tell the story of someone the writer genuinely knows. Those relationships aren’t built during senior year; they’re developed over time through consistent engagement, curiosity and trust.
Seek Perspectives, Not Just Answers
High school is filled with many decisions, choosing classes, exploring careers, considering colleges and discovering new interests. Teachers and counselors may not have all the answers, nor do they share the same interests or career goals as every student. What they do have is perspective.
They’ve worked with hundreds of students navigating similar questions. They’ve seen students change majors before they even reach college, discover passions they never expected and find success through many different paths. Their experience allows them to ask thoughtful questions, offer guidance and help you think more critically about the choices in front of you.
The best conversations happen when you’ve taken the time to build a relationship. Share your goals, be honest about what excites or worries you and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The more a teacher or counselor understands your interests and aspirations, the better they can help you identify opportunities that align with who you are becoming.
Learn a Skill That Will Follow You Into College
One of the greatest benefits of building relationships with teachers and counselors is that you’re also developing a lifelong skill: learning how to seek mentorship.
Look for opportunities to become involved beyond the classroom. Volunteer to help with events through your college and career center, take on leadership roles and be someone others can rely on to follow through on commitments. Reliability, initiative and genuine engagement leave lasting impressions!
When you transition to college, you’ll have the opportunity to build these same kinds of relationships with professors, academic advisors, mentors and campus staff. Students who are comfortable introducing themselves, asking thoughtful questions, attending office hours and seeking guidance are often the ones who make the most of their college experience.
The relationships you build in high school are more than preparation for the admission process; they’re practice for a lifetime of learning. Long after you’ve submitted your applications, the habit of connecting with mentors, sharing your goals and remaining curious will continue to open doors throughout your undergraduate experience and beyond.
Written by: Rosa Garcia Rios, Assistant Director – USC Office of Undergraduate Admission