Many returning SLOHS students may have experienced a counselor change this year due to the new addition to the department. Photo illustration courtesy of junior Roslyn Risner.
Many students may have noticed a counselor change at the start of this school year, with the addition of Alexis Jimenez to San Luis Obispo High School’s counseling staff. While this can be a little disrupting, rest assured that all counselors at SLOHS will do their best to help everyone with their schedules or anything else.
Expressions interviewed Alexis Jimenez, discussing his goals, feelings about SLOHS, and how he got into becoming a school counselor.
Expressions: Why did you initially decide to become a counselor/when did you start to think that this was something you wanted to do?
School Counselor Alexis Jimenez: My path to counseling was not planned. In high school, I volunteered in the emergency department through an ROP nursing program. While it was a great hands-on experience, I realized that nursing wasn’t the right fit for me at that time. Since nursing had been my goal, I felt unsure about my next steps, but I knew I wanted to help others.
During college, I volunteered for a nonprofit working with middle school students and students on probation. I enjoyed working with them, but I often felt limited in how much I could support them in that role.
After graduating college, I worked as a college and career specialist without any long term plans of staying. The principal offered me a position as an academic advisor for the following year, and asked me about my career goals. At the time, I didn’t have a clear plan—I intended to leave and return to nonprofit work at the end of the school year. However, during our conversation she encouraged me to apply to graduate school for school counseling. I applied that spring and started in the fall. She worked with my schedule and I continued to work there until I graduated. I am grateful for her encouragement, and the support I received from others. I couldn’t do it alone.
Expressions: How are you liking the environment at SLOHS?
Jimenez: I’m really enjoying it! The campus is beautiful, and the surrounding area makes it an incredible place to be. More importantly, the people here are friendly and welcoming. I’m grateful to be here.
Expressions: What do you think is the most important part of being a school counselor?
Jimenez: Student safety and overall well-being are the most important aspects of working in a school. Building strong, trusting relationships with students is vital to a school counselor’s role. When students know they are supported, they feel more confident seeking help and navigating challenges. We, as school counselors, advocate for students’ well-being, help them navigate personal and social challenges, and connect them and their families to valuable resources in times of need. Ultimately, it’s about creating a safe, supportive space where students feel valued, worthy, and capable of growth.
Expressions: What would be your primary goals for this upcoming school year, or is there anything you would like to change/accomplish?
Jimenez: I want to refine and build upon the work that I have done this year. I am someone who feels like there can always be improvements, so the list is long.
Expressions: When you’re not working what is your favorite pastime?
Jimenez: I enjoy spending time with my family and exploring the Central Coast. Since moving here, we’ve loved discovering new towns, beaches, and outdoor spots. Recently, we visited the elephant seals in San Simeon, which was an incredible experience. I’m also passionate about hiking and camping. We try to camp a few times a year and make an effort to hike throughout the seasons. So far, we’ve really enjoyed our time here and look forward to more adventures.
Expressions: What’s the best part (so far) about working at SLOHS?
Jimenez: The people. The staff and students have been incredibly welcoming and supportive. There’s a strong sense of community, and I’ve been impressed by how students go out of their way to support and include their peers. It’s heartwarming to see them actively create an environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging. In particular, the AVID program and ASB have been great at organizing activities that foster inclusivity and help connect students to the larger school community.
Welcome to the community, Alexis Jimenez!
