This study was designed to explore how secondary school counselors affect the entrance of African American students into higher education based on counselor beliefs. Minimizing and understanding barriers to postsecondary access is critical in closing the achievement gap for underrepresented African American students. Gaps in enrollment is often attributed to underachievement in college and career readiness. Improving secondary curriculum preparation, addressing financial aid barriers, and understanding the impact of the community environment of African American students influencing college choices will be discussed. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]