John Madden
Director of School Counseling
East Rockaway School District (NY)

What drew you to the world of college admission counseling?
When I first became a school counselor, college advising wasn’t something that initially sparked my interest. However, as I gained more experience and attended professional development sessions, my perspective began to shift. I came to understand that college admissions counseling is about far more than simply helping students get into college — it’s about guiding them to discover their strengths and better understand who they are as individuals.

I’ve also realized that college advising often involves a form of family counseling. It creates opportunities to help students and parents get on the same page, reach a shared understanding, and empower students to confidently advocate for what they believe is best for their future. What makes college advising especially rewarding is the ability to apply counseling techniques and see meaningful results over a relatively short period of time.

What is your favorite part of the job?
My favorite part of the job is sitting with students who are nervous to hit “submit” on their college applications. Being in that moment — encouraging them, reassuring them that they’ve done the work and they’re ready — feels incredibly rewarding. Seeing the confetti go off on the Common App, watching their faces light up with relief and pride, and taking a moment to recognize just how big of a milestone this is for them is truly special. In a job that can sometimes feel routine, these moments offer a chance to pause, reflect, and appreciate the impact of the work we do.

How has NACAC played a role in your career?
The first NACAC conference I attended was in 2017 in Boston, and it was an incredible experience. In just four days, I felt like I gained 10 years’ worth of knowledge and insight. I had the opportunity to attend a wide range of sessions on topics like interview preparation, educational technology, and college admissions. More importantly, I connected with counselors from all over the world, learning from their experiences and gaining new perspectives on how different schools structure their programs. The networking alone has been invaluable. For anyone who hasn’t attended the conference, I can’t recommend it enough — it has truly been career-changing for me.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our profession today?
I think one of the biggest challenges facing our profession today — among many — is helping students find the right college fit without leaving them buried in debt. As counselors, how do we effectively incorporate financial literacy and give teenagers the long-term perspective they need to make informed decisions about their future? It’s a delicate balance between encouraging students to resist immediate gratification and guiding them toward thoughtful, financially responsible choices — while still respecting their independence and allowing them to make their own decisions. The rising cost of college is becoming unsustainable for many families, making this guidance more important than ever.

Additionally, one of our greatest challenges as school counselors and college advisors is guiding students toward careers that will remain relevant  —or even exist — in the rapidly evolving landscape shaped by AI. It’s essential that we take a forward-thinking approach, staying informed about emerging trends and the ways new technology is transforming the workforce.

When you aren’t working, what do you like to do?
When I’m not working, I love spending time with my wife; our 6- and 4-year-old kids; and our dog, Brisket. I enjoy playing guitar and have a passion for cooking — especially when it involves firing up my smoker. Living near the water, I also love kayaking and swimming whenever I get the chance.

What five words would you use to describe yourself?
Supportive, insightful, dedicated, approachable, and resourceful — and I hope others view me that way as well!

 

Published April 28, 2025