Guidance Counselor Almost Ruins Student's Life By Underestimating Their Intelligence, And They Take Revenge

Every human being requires support in life because it is a crucial part of our emotional and psychological well-being. The support can come in various forms, such as emotional encouragement, practical assistance, and guidance through challenging times.

It helps individuals overcome obstacles and fosters a sense of belonging and community. However, if someone asks for support and receives quite the opposite, it can greatly affect their life.

In this Reddit story, something similar happened. During the OP's high school years, they faced significant struggles.

Adopted and then neglected by a stepfather, and with a mother preoccupied with appeasing the father, their home life was far from supportive. The school presented its own set of challenges, with anxiety and difficulty focusing making academic success elusive despite their consistent effort and attendance.

Throughout high school, their guidance counselor remained the same, dismissing their requests for additional support by suggesting they simply weren't trying hard enough. This dismissal was particularly stinging given the counselor's friendship with their stepfather, a social worker within the school board.

As high school concluded and discussions about future educational paths arose, the counselor dismissed the OP's aspirations toward psychology, suggesting instead that they were better suited for community college or a certificate in administration. This advice, which demeaned the OP's ambitions, haunted them for years.

However, in their late 20s, motivated by a desire to prove themselves, the OP applied to university, eventually graduating with honors and even earning a Master's degree in behavioral psychology. At their stepfather's funeral, the meeting with the OP's former guidance counselor provided a chance for subtle retribution.

By pretending not to recognize her, the OP aimed to convey that she had left no significant impact on them despite the deep influence her words had once had. This act of pretending not to remember her served as the OP's own form of silent victory, a way to reclaim their sense of self-worth from someone who had once sought to diminish it.

Here is the OP's story:

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The OP explained they struggled back in high school:

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The Consequences of Underestimation

Underestimating someone's potential can have profound consequences, particularly in educational settings. Research in developmental psychology shows that low expectations from authority figures can significantly impact a student's self-esteem and motivation.

In this case, the guidance counselor’s comments may have contributed to the student’s feelings of inadequacy, potentially affecting their academic trajectory.

They had a lot of anxiety and a hard time focusing:

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They asked their guidance counselor for help, but to no avail:

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Feedback from authority figures can shape students' self-perceptions and influence their future aspirations. As Sir Ken Robinson, an education expert, states, "The role of education is to help students discover their own talents and abilities." Positive reinforcement and high expectations can lead to increased motivation and achievement, as noted by Dr. John Hattie, an education researcher, who emphasizes that "feedback is one of the most powerful influences on learning and achievement." This highlights the importance of supportive encouragement in educational environments.

At the end of high school, the OP told her they would like to apply to university:

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But she told them they were not 'university material':

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The Impact of Self-Perception on Performance

Self-perception plays a critical role in performance. Psychological research indicates that individuals who believe in their capabilities are more likely to pursue challenging goals and exhibit perseverance.

By contrast, negative feedback can create a self-fulfilling prophecy, where students internalize low expectations and disengage from academic pursuits.

She basically told them they were not smart enough:

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Her words haunted the OP into their late 20s:

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To combat negative perceptions, students can benefit from building a support network that reinforces their capabilities. Engaging with mentors, peers, and supportive faculty can help cultivate a positive self-image and encourage resilience.

Additionally, setting personal goals based on intrinsic motivation rather than external validation can lead to a more fulfilling academic experience.

They applied to the university and finished their Master's in behavioral psychology:

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Then they met their old counselor:

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The Role of Advocacy in Education

Advocating for oneself in educational settings is crucial for overcoming obstacles. Research shows that developing assertiveness skills can empower students to express their needs and aspirations effectively.

By learning to communicate their desires clearly, students can challenge low expectations and push for opportunities that align with their potential.

She approached the OP, starting a conversation:

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But the OP pretended not to know her to show her that she had no influence on them:

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The guidance counselor's job is to help students make their dreams come true, not to ruin them. This one apparently wasn't doing her job well.

Sadly, she is not the only one. However, the OP showed that the most important thing is to believe in yourself and that everything is possible.

Apparently, she was not the only one

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She wasn't worth remembering

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Genius idea

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She should be encouraging students

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There is no excuse for her

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The OP said it was extremely satisfying

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It was a great strategy

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She doesn't do her job

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Her soul and ego are crushed

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Psychological Analysis

This scenario illustrates how low expectations can hinder student success. It’s crucial for educators to provide encouragement and support, helping students recognize their capabilities and potential.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In summary, the impact of underestimation in educational settings can be detrimental to student development. Research consistently shows that fostering high expectations and supportive feedback can significantly enhance motivation and achievement.

By advocating for themselves, students can navigate challenges and realize their full potential.