Billy Sarge
School Counselor
St. Henry District High School (KY)

What drew you to the world of college admission counseling?
One of my college academic advisers encouraged me to register for an internship through the Thomas More College (KY) Undergraduate Admissions Office. Ever since that experience, I have felt called to dedicate my professional career to trying to make a positive impact on student lives and helping students navigate the postsecondary search.

What is your favorite part of the job?
Not knowing what to expect when I walk into my office each day—that is my favorite part of the job. Each new day I get to work closely with my colleagues in the counseling department to find new ways to better serve our students.

How has NACAC played a role in your career?
I was first introduced to NACAC through KYACAC earlier in my career representing our affiliate as a delegate at the national conference. The number of conferences and workshops offered and opportunities to network with admissions professionals through NACAC has helped me to learn how to better serve the students in our state and members of our affiliate. Also, I want to give a special thanks to my Presidents’ Class (shoutout to my Rev Fam!) for all their guidance the last three years. Your input on how NACAC and all our affiliates can continue to work together has made a positive impact on our profession.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our profession today?
Time + Retention. The amount of time our school counselors and admissions professionals are spending to meet student needs and achieve enrollment goals has made life/work balance a challenge. This has resulted in some very strong, dedicated individuals leaving our profession. We need to let our passion be the thing that keeps us in the education profession—not what causes us to leave it.

When you aren’t working, what do you like to do?
My family and friends are what is most important to me. No matter how busy work might be, I always make time for my family and friends. Also, in addition to being a school counselor, I have my own DJ business which usually keeps me pretty busy most weekends.

 

Published June 26, 2023