Behind The Scenes with Janet Hong

What Goes on In the Brain of Our School Counsellor

Written by Ikki F.

Janet Hong’s yearbook photo (Via. Aisgz.org)

As the new school year starts Janet Hong is filled with anticipation, her excitement to meet new students and have an amazing school year is widely shown. Not only is she the school counsellor but she is the face most see on their first days at AISG.

In middle and high school, Hong was a student in JIS (Jakarta Intercultural School) an international school in Indonesia. Witnessing the cultural and environmental differences firsthand, she wanted to become the person students could go to. She wanted to share her experiences and help guide and support students in the same situation she was once faced with.

After graduating high school Hong got her degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the highly prestigious Harvard Graduate School of Education. Hong’s first experience as a school counsellor was at TCIS (Taejon Christian International School) where she worked for three years. In August of 2019, she moved to China starting her now five-year career at AISG (American International School of Guangzhou).

This year, however, it is quite different. With past years already consisting of having buddies, (a way for new students to have a guide for their first few days of school) Hong aimed for this year to be even better.

Another initiative that Hong and her colleagues have been using are celebration days. These special days may include dressing up in a certain color to show support, or even just wearing a pin or bracelets. The events include Upstander Day, Child Protection Month, and most recently World Mental Health Day.

Hong shared with excitement “We celebrate World Mental Health Day (October 10, 2024) and showcased what students have worked on in their advisories around the school”

The colorful poster hung around our school highlighted the counsellors’ efforts to better our school into a more inclusive and understanding environment. Each poster had a different slogan reminding students to think of themselves as well.

Hong’s passion for being a counsellor is shown through her connection with her students. Some attributes students described Hong to be are patient, calm, friendly, open minded, objective, and understanding, aligning with exactly what Hong believes is needed.

“There are so many good qualities that will help being a school counsellor, But I think patience, love, and having good listening skills are good qualities to have.” Hong says.

Being fun and having fun with students is also very important to get to know them on more than just an academic level. Hong wants to be more than just the person you go to for help but also a person you can trust.

Janet Hong (left) dressing up for Halloween with her colleagues Quennie Zhang (middle) and Addie Park (right) putting on their best smiles. (Via. AISG Instagram)

At AISG Hong is constantly learning, as she watches her students grow and develop, noticing that “everyone is unique and different, and there is no one way of doing it”.

Janet Hong’s help is towards all students from grades 10-12 but the students that require the most assistance are the seniors heading off to college.

Auston Y. a current senior explains “It’s good to have someone guide you in your academic journey”

While seniors are closing out their final year at AISG, others are just about starting their decision making on their future. Hong’s enthusiasm for interacting with students is shown through how comfortable they are with her.

Franziska L. (G.10) said “Ms. Hong has a very easy-going attitude which makes me feel comfortable”

Additionally, many students commented on how “nice and polite Ms. Hong is.” Hong tries to be seen walking around the school just to say a few casual hellos and to observe classes. Wanting her students to know they are not alone and that she is always there to help.

Hong explains “I try to be visible and as available as I can”

Hong’s commitment to her job really shows just why having a school counsellor is so important. Her work at AISG truly shows students what it is like not to feel alone. Her development as a counsellor is truly seen in her work. Her patience and kindness truly make her trustworthy to the students around her. Hong’s persistence in the role makes her impact even greater, really helping develop students that are more resilient and independent people that help better the world.