Recently Erica  Snelson, GCAA’s new college counselor, was brought in to help the    junior class map out a plan regarding their academic futures.

Snelson, counseling department chair and educator of thirteen years, was added to the GCAA faculty and staff this 2014-2015 school year to be a resource of a higher education, but also to specifically help the juniors prepare for life after high school.

Some students, college bound or not, have different opinions on the effect of Snelson’s work at the school so far.

“Without her, us juniors would be lost. She is really helpful,” Tyra Thompson, 11th grade, said.

Snelson has brought in college representatives from colleges outside the state to come and talk to the junior class about the school they represent and the various opportunities at their college. While not all juniors have attended these meetings, most students have.

“I was surprised at how prepared and ready they were for these meetings, they asked very knowledgeable questions,” said Snelson.

Snelson later organized a college fair visit for the students to go experience first hand what it’s really like.

“The college fair we attended was much like a bigger version of our college rep meetings.” said Snelson.

Snelson has earned her Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education from Missouri State University, followed by a masters in school counseling from Lindenwood University. She has been a first grade teacher at different city schools in St. Louis and also a special education teacher. She has one daughter and thinks that it is important to be relatable to her students, given that her experience with teachers has not always been pleasant.

“I barely remember my counselor’s name. I want to make connections with my students, that is important,” Snelson said.

Snelson has been working diligently with the junior class and will continue to work with them so they have a better outlook on their future and what they want to do. Projects are in the works for not only the junior class but all high school students.