What to Expect from Your UNW Admission Counselor

Navigating the journey to college enrollment is exciting and overwhelming. At the University of Northwestern (UNW), your admission counselor is here to support you and guide you toward making meaningful choices for your future. Among the many important roles an admission counselor plays, here are some of the most important:

Educator

Your UNW admission counselor serves as an educator, providing you with essential information about the university, its academics, student life, and opportunities. Whether you are curious about a particular major, residence life experiences, music or sports, or what scholarship opportunities you may qualify for, we will either know the answer or find it for you!

Best questions to ask: What kinds of jobs can I get with my chosen major? How does financial aid work at your school? What is chapel like? What makes your residence halls the #1 dorms in Minnesota? How are you different from my other college options?

Representative

Your UNW admission counselor is the face of the university, able to introduce you to various academic departments and campus services. They also represent the values of Northwestern: a love for God’s word and God’s world. In this matter, they can speak about the mission, vision, and direction of the school as well as your opportunities for personal growth.

Best questions to ask: What is Northwestern’s mission statement? What kind of spiritual growth opportunities are provided for students? How does UNW provide special care for struggling students? What new, exciting changes are happening? What remains consistent?

Connector

Admission counselors are expert networkers! We love connecting you with others, such as professors, coaches, career mentors, and accommodations staff. Let your counselor know what your specific needs are, and we will happily make those introductions and appointments for you.

Best questions to ask: Can you help me schedule a tour of the Nursing department? Who should I meet with about my food allergies? How can I learn about disability services? How can I connect with the soccer coach? May I sit in on a choir practice?

Supporter

Choosing a college or university is a huge investment, both financially and emotionally. Your admission counselor is there to listen to your concerns and provide guidance and advice tailored to your family’s situation. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or need someone to bounce ideas off of, your admission counselor is there to support you.

Best questions to ask: Will you pray for me as I make big decisions? Can you help me compare my top three college options? Should I commute or live in the dorms? How do I know if a college is the right fit for me? How can I balance my academic goals with my extracurricular activities and spiritual growth?

Advocate

Your UNW admission counselor is dedicated to advocating for your success throughout the admissions process. They are here to ensure that you have access to the resources and opportunities that best align with your goals and needs. Whether it’s navigating financial aid, understanding scholarship options, or ensuring your unique circumstances are considered, your counselor is here to champion your interests.

Best questions to ask: Can you help me find scholarship opportunities that suit my interests? What resources are there for first-generation students? Can you help me find an on-campus job? How can I make my application materials strong and effective? What steps should I take if I’m waitlisted or deferred?

Facilitator

Finally, admission counselors are also there to guide you through the practical aspects of applying to college: what materials you need, when deadlines are approaching, and what next steps you can take to secure your place in the incoming class. They help you stay organized as you navigate the logistics of the enrollment process.

Best questions to ask: What materials do you still need for my application file? When should I complete the FAFSA? What is my next step? How do I submit AP scores? What is the status of my application? How do I pay an enrollment deposit?

Your UNW admission counselor is excited to learn about you—your goals, interests, and your family’s unique story. We’re here to make the enrollment process as smooth as possible during your busy senior year, offering guidance and support with a Christ-centered heart. Our mission is to walk alongside you and your family every step of the way, ensuring you feel confident and well-prepared as you take this important step toward your future.

Go to https://www.unwsp.edu/admissions/undergraduate to find your own personal UNW admission counselor!