Why Use a College Consultant?
Applying to college now is very different from 20 or 30 years ago. Parents often say “I only applied to one school and that is where I went.” But, then they often go on to say, “In hindsight, I realize it wasn't an ideal fit” or “I transferred colleges four times before I finally got my degree.” And that is when they have the “aha” moment.
They realize that the stakes are higher now, as college is more expensive and more competitive. It makes sense to do upfront research, in order to put together an effective list, complete with reach, match and safety schools, taking into consideration academic, social and financial fit.
It is crucial to understand the timing of PSAT, SAT, ACT, AP tests and IB tests. And, how to best approach studying for these exams. For some students a traditional test prep course will work. For others, private tutoring is more effective. And some very highly motivated students are able to study on their own.
Visiting colleges is an important part of the process. But junior year is jammed with deadlines and often the student is taking his or her most rigorous course load to date. How do you decide which colleges make the most sense to visit? I am able to help families work through all of these issues and more, including:
They realize that the stakes are higher now, as college is more expensive and more competitive. It makes sense to do upfront research, in order to put together an effective list, complete with reach, match and safety schools, taking into consideration academic, social and financial fit.
It is crucial to understand the timing of PSAT, SAT, ACT, AP tests and IB tests. And, how to best approach studying for these exams. For some students a traditional test prep course will work. For others, private tutoring is more effective. And some very highly motivated students are able to study on their own.
Visiting colleges is an important part of the process. But junior year is jammed with deadlines and often the student is taking his or her most rigorous course load to date. How do you decide which colleges make the most sense to visit? I am able to help families work through all of these issues and more, including:
- Designing the “List” of Colleges
- Visiting Schools
- SAT/ACT/AP/IB – timing and suggestions for preparation
- Brainstorming Essay Ideas
- Polishing the Common Application
- Early Action and Early Decision Strategies
- Merit Scholarship Applications and Deadlines
- Practice Interviews
- Creating an Activities/experience resume
- Planning Summer Activities
- Taking a Career Survey
