Need for Admisistrative Assistants?

Hello everyone, I seem to be at a crossroads in my career right now. I'm currently going to college to be a counselor and I'll be ready to transfer to a four year college in the fall. The problem is that right now since the economy took a downturn I'm wondering if it would be more practical to get a degree in Administrative Assistant since I wouldn't have to go to school for several years and take out loans for it. So I guess my question is, is there a need at this time for AA? I live in North Idaho by the way. I'd appreciate any input you have on this, sincerely Dubious.