Brooke Smith
Associate Director of College Counseling
United Nations International School (NY)

What drew you to the world of college admission counseling?
I always knew that I wanted to work with teenagers after having an extraordinary school counselor during my own high school years. Dr. Karen Cooper-Haber had a profound impact on my life, both professionally and personally. My education specialist degree in school counseling helped prepare me for a career in schools and my counseling background has served me well in my 17 years of college counseling.

I have been lucky to have many incredible mentors along the way, including Rhody Davis of Viewpoint School and Jason Griffiths, founder of The Brooklyn Latin School, where I served as director of college counseling. In my current role at the United Nations International School, I am honored to work with an array of international admission professionals and amazing students from all over the world. #unisproud

What is your favorite part of the job?
My favorite part of the job is seeing students grow in the college process, gaining confidence in themselves, and engaging in thoughtful self-reflection. It’s a true joy witnessing students find their own voice in their journey to college.

How has NACAC played a role in your career?
NACAC helps to guide and push our profession forward through engagement and advocacy. As a longstanding member of NACAC, I have been actively involved in NACAC’s affiliate organizations including International ACAC, NYSACAC, and WACAC. Having the opportunity to present at annual conferences has been an important part of my own professional development and has allowed me to connect with incredible colleagues around the world. NACAC’s annual conference provides endless opportunities for professional connection and growth. As one of a small handful of non-binary colleagues in our profession, it has been especially empowering to connect with NACAC’s LGBTQ+ Special Interest Group and affiliate SIGs.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our profession today?
College affordability and equity.

When you aren’t working, what do you like to do?
Even though I live in New York City, I’m an avid gardener. I’m also a dedicated pickleballer and I enjoy art, traveling, and most importantly, being a parent.

If you could be any fictional character, who would it be and why?
Where’s Waldo, because Waldo travels the world in style and I have the glasses to match!

 

Published July 4, 2022