It isn’t likely that a counselor would start her job near the end of the school year, but Anne Kraus was ready to step up Monday, March 12, as the new college counselor.

Starting her education path at University of Missouri-St. Louis, Kraus received her bachelors in psychology and her masters in counseling. Kraus has worked in the Pattonville, Maplewood and Parkways School District. Kraus also worked previously at an agency with adults and children with developmental disabilities.

She heard about the job opening at MHS after the previous counselor, Kelly Heissler resigned, Kraus said.

“Compared to my previous jobs, MHS is a lot bigger and the students are more polite than I’m used to,” Kraus said. “I appreciate MHS’s friendliness and everyone welcoming me.”

Kraus said her favorite part of the job is consistently moving and being busy, while talking to so many different students. Kraus’s contract extends into the next school year, allowing her to continue doing what she loves. Being around kids helped Kraus realize her career path when she was younger.

“I always loved working with kids and helping them to see their full potential,” Kraus said.

The one piece of advice that she gives to all students is to keep exploring options and not give up, Kraus said.

As a college counselor, Kraus goes through the whole college process with students and if the college isn’t right for the students, she helps them look at other options, Kraus said. Right now, Kraus said she is specifically working with juniors and seniors and their ACT scores, transcripts and interviews with colleges.

“I have only been here three weeks and my understanding is that this a ‘slower’ time in our office, but since I have been here, I have averaged 10 to 15 students a week,” Kraus said. “I know it will get busier, and I look forward to that time.”

Before Kraus got the job, Associate Principal Paul Burns interviewed her.

“We look for someone that embodies the Rockwood mission statement and has a background in the area,” Burns said.

They hired Kraus because she has an extensive background, loves working with kids, and is very enthusiastic, Burns said.

He also said Kraus was adjusting very well to her new position. Kraus is always smiling and enjoying what she does and that he is “very pleased.”