Guiding with Compassion: Meskerem Mulugeta's Journey as a High School Counselor

Meet Meskerem Mulugeta, a 25-year-old high school counselor at the Medhane-Alem school and a resident of Butajira, which is nine kilometers from Yetebon.  Meskerem started her counseling journey as a science teacher in an elementary school after completing her psychology degree. Because of her teaching experience, Meskerem has formed close friendships with the students. 

"Students come because they need help, and they need a safe place for them to talk and be heard. My office is that space for them," 

she says, beaming. 

Behind Meskerem’s desk at her office, she has printed her favorite saying,

To change your behavior, first change your attitude.

She uses this approach to redirect students’ perspectives on a challenge, such as advice on study habits, tardiness, or poor grades. 

Meskerem believes in being firm but fair when dealing with students who need discipline. 

"Everything should come from love. When we love others, we make sure they are doing well, and we show that we care,"

she concludes.