The answer for this is two-pronged:
To start, the college planning and admissions processes can be overwhelming with nuances that are not easily deciphered. My years of admissions experience has taught me first-hand what the Admissions Committees are looking for when reading through an application. This experience translates to ensuring each student puts together applications that will read well, capture the Admissions Committees' attention, and truly showcase who they are.
Second, applying to colleges is a big undertaking that comes with bouts of stress for both student and their family. My role extends beyond that of planner, advisor, brainstormer and editor to also include cheerleader, empathetic listener, and executive functioning coach. This additional support has proven to be an essential element for mitigating a lot of the stress and uncertainty that comes with the process.
Yes! The majority of school-based College Counselors oversee 30 to 100's of students each admission season, making it nearly impossible for them to spend much focused time with any one student. My role in this process allows me to work either in tandem with those counselors, or as an added support behind the scenes. Because I only work with a small number of students each year, I am able to give each student the one-on-one time needed. This ensures personalized attention, efficient time management, effective writing and revision, and the availability to provide additional support that will mitigate some of the stress and uncertainty that comes with applying to college.
I do. Most students come to me with a preliminary list of prospective schools, but that is not a requirement. I will work with students and their families to generate a prospective school list, or augment a preliminary list should I see any gaps. Part of this process includes ensuring that expectations are in line with acceptance rates, a student's academic performance, extracurricular accomplishments, and interests.
As part of any 12th grade package, I have weekly meetings with each student. Those meetings typically start in September and continue through until the last application is submitted.
For students in 10th and 11th grade, my primary contact is with parents via monthly check-ins. Intervals for student check-ins are discussed during our first meeting and are re-evaluated as the school year progresses.
Parent(s)/Guardian(s) of 12th graders, will receive a weekly email that provides an update on their student's progress. Beyond that, I have found that every family is different. Some families want to be involved in every step, while others prefer to take more of a "hands-off" approach. Neither way is wrong. Therefore, at the onset of the process, I establish what timeline feels comfortable for meetings and make sure to adhere to that during the process. Regardless of what interval feels most comfortable for your family, I do look for the student to take ownership of the process and to be the primary point of contact.
For parent(s)/guardian(s) of 10th and 11th graders, I will reach out via email on a monthly basis to check-in. At that point, if it would be helpful, we can set up a meeting to further discuss any questions or concerns.
All parent(s)/guardian(s), regardless of their student's grade, have access to me anytime via text, email or phone. They are welcome to reach out as often as needed if they have any questions or concerns.
Absolutely! Students lead hectic lives and I understand that adding in one more component with the college application process only makes things more hectic. Therefore, I have plenty of afternoon, evening and weekend hours available to meet. In addition, accommodations can be made to meet prior to school or during Study Halls (if permitted by school).