Auburn University recruiter Kate Henderson has joined the Academic Futures team at The Summit Counseling Center in Alpharetta, announced Leigh Anne Spraetz, LPC, NCC, president of the group.

Academic Futures, Inc. specializes in college and career counseling for high school students and young adults. Founded by Spraetz, the 15-year-old practice serves students from many North Fulton public and private high schools, as well as college students who are still trying to decide on their major.

During her seven-year career in college admissions, Henderson has worked with both small and large institutions. A graduate of Auburn University with a B.A. in communications and a master’s degree in higher education administration, Henderson most recently served Auburn as a regional recruiter. In that position, she assisted Atlanta area students and their families with each part of the college selection process, including admission, scholarships, and financial aid.

“I am so excited to have Kate join my practice,” said Spraetz. “I have worked closely with her for many years. My students have always commented on the professionalism and warmth she offers in her interactions. I know she will provide the same for my clients through her knowledge of college admissions from her experience at Auburn University as well as in working with numerous admissions representatives and recruiters from other colleges. I regret taking such a valuable resource away from my Alma Mater and know she will be sorely missed, but I am thrilled to have her join Academic Futures.”

Henderson also has been a mentor for new regional recruiters and is active in a variety of professional organizations on the local, regional, and national levels. She will begin transitioning her duties at Auburn University and will start working with students at Academic Futures on June 1.

Academic Futures added another new staff member earlier this year: Sonja Maxwell, M.A., a licensed clinician, who assists Spraetz with the six hours of career testing and exploration which helps students gain a strong sense of self-awareness.

Academic Futures works with high school students from freshmen to seniors. “We help students develop a vision for their future academic plans, understand their strengths and how to demonstrate this knowledge in their high school experiences, extracurricular activities, and applications” said Spraetz.

Spraetz typically tours 40 to 60 colleges across the country each year. She develops an individualized college list for each student and then coaches the college-bound students through the application process, including advice on writing their application essays. “We help them develop ideas,” she said. “But they write their own essays; then we review them for clarity. We provide an action plan to keep them focused, encouraged, and moving forward.”