A bachelors degree is required to become a high school guidance counselor, and some states require that the candidate have a masters degree. Coursework should include social studies, psychology, and communications work, with an emphasis on public speaking. Courses dealing with education are important too; many private schools require that guidance counselors teach courses in addition to their counseling duties. A background in statistics and mathematics is important for evaluating students on their standardized tests. By far the most important skill a potential guidance counselor can bring to this profession is the ability to relate to adolescents. This skill requires a combination of the ability to listen, honesty, an open mind, and a sense of humor. Those who succeed in this profession communicate well with students; those who fail, dont.