What do they do?

An educational consultant is someone who advises students on what course to take after school, or what college to aim for, and what they would need to do to get there.

They look at the student’s interests, their strengths and weaknesses, their performance, and in what direction the students wants to head. Taking all this into account, they advise the student on a future course of action.

They may point out areas of focus for the student, tell them what tests they may need to take, suggest training classes and recommend colleges to aim for.

They may even act as a counterbalance to parental pressure.For example, if the parent wants their child to pursue medicine, but the child is more interested in and better at music, the consultant may talk to the parent, advising that they allow the child to pursue their interest rather than what the parent wants.

However, an important part of their job is that they remain unbiased, and make sure each suggestion is in the best interests of the child.

Skills Needed

• Communication skills

• Ability to memorise information easily

• Analytical skills

• Impartiality in decision making

How do I get there?

An educational consultant should have experience with being an educator, as well as having a teaching license, or a degree in education.

Ideally, an educational consultant should have a degree in Psychology and in Education, and some schools look for people who have completed a Master’s degree in education.

Pros & Cons about this career