This qualitative study explored the experiences of new school counselors in establishing themselves as leaders in their schools. Specifically, it focused on factors this population perceives as promoting or impeding their role as leaders. We interviewed 12 participants in their first through third year as school counselors. Four themes emerged from the data including intrapersonal factors, sociocultural factors, systemic factors, and interactive factors. We discuss implications for counselor educators, district supervisors, and school counselors.