The role of the community college counselor is unique and complex. Moorpark College Counselors are professional, credentialed faculty who utilize a variety of skills to assist students in reaching their goals. Title 5 of the California Education Code identifies three required categories of counseling: Academic, Career, and Personal.

A. ACADEMIC: Academic counseling involves the use of assessment data, prior academic history, and life experiences to determine the academic preparedness of the student. The counselor works closely with students to formulate an academic plan. Skills that counselors must possess include the knowledge of and competency in the following academic areas:

• Assessment Evaluation
• Special Education Evaluation
• Transcript Evaluation
• Limited and Non-English Speaking Preparation
• Vocational Planning
• Interpretation of Articulation Agreements
• Graduation Preparation and Evaluation
• Academic Planning
• Preparation for Major
• Transfer Preparation
• Retention / Probation Counseling
• Developmental Preparation and Evaluation

B. CAREER: A major concern at our colleges is the large number of students who enter as "undecided" about their major or goals. Many studies have been completed by ACT which reveal that students who know what their college goals are, are more likely to succeed and complete their college education. Counselors recognize the important role Career Guidance and Counseling plays in not only retention efforts, but also in helping students. Skills that counselors must possess include the knowledge of competency in the following career preparation areas:

• Career Testing and Interpretation
• Resume Writing and Interview Skills
• Career Information and Selection
• Computer Search
• Job Search/Job Placement Skills
• Career Search Classes
• Retention Counseling

C. PERSONAL: Counselors assist students with a variety of concerns which effect their educational goals. Skills that counselors must possess include the knowledge and competency in the following personalized areas:

• Goal Evaluation
• Building Self-Esteem
• Decision-making Skills
• Crisis Intervention
• College Survival Skills
• Identification of Special Needs
• Motivational Support
• Retention Counseling

The variety of described counseling services is available on a day and evening basis to current and prospective students.

The Moorpark College Counseling Staff has been acknowledged for its excellence by many state organizations. In 1978, the counselors were presented with the prestigious H.B. McDaniel Award for Outstanding Counseling Services in California.

We encourage every student and member of the community to utilize the resources available through our office. Phone (805) 378-1428 for further information. We look forward to working with you!