Whatever you call the school counselor at your child’s high school -- guidance counselor, college counselor, etc -- please know that they are an integral part of the college application process. A few elements of their job are: 

• to offer college advice to you and your child

• weigh in on the selection of courses for each year

• write a school counselor recommendation on behalf of your child

• send the transcript

• communicate with colleges about your child’s application and interest

Some school counselors do this better than others, and usually, it depends on their caseload of students. 

As a parent, you should attend any college preparation presentations that your school...