Question 1

Why should I hire a College Consultant?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 2

Can we still work with you even if our student has a school-assigned College Counselor?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 3

Do you help students select prospective schools?

Accepted Answer

I do. I work with students and their families during 11th grade to develop a preliminary prospective school list, which is then finalized by the start of their senior year. As part of this process, I help ensure that expectations are in line with factors such as acceptance rates, a student's academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and interests.

Question 4

When should I reserve a spot for my student?

Accepted Answer

I only take a small number of students each year to ensure personalized attention, therefore, reserving your space early is always beneficial.

Question 5

How often do you meet with each student?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 6

What if my student has questions or concerns that come up before their next weekly meeting?

Accepted Answer

Students have access to me anytime via phone, text, and/or email.  I encourage and welcome these students to reach out as often as needed in order to keep them on track for deadlines and alleviate stress.

Question 7

How often do you meet with parent(s)/guardian(s)?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 8

My student has after school activities and weekend commitments.  Do you have flexibility to accommodate that?

Accepted Answer

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).

Question 9

Do you meet in-person or via Zoom?

Accepted Answer

Most of my meetings are via Zoom because it usually works best given students' busy schedules. However, I understand that some students would prefer in-person meetings instead. I am based in Charlottesville, VA and am happy to try to accommodate that for my clients who live locally.

Question 10

Do I have to live locally in order to have my student work with you?

Accepted Answer

No. While I am based out of Charlottesville, VA, I work with students and families from all over the country.

Question 11

What is the turn-around time for my student to receive feedback on their writing or revisions?

Accepted Answer

I make every effort to give feedback within 24 hours.

Frequently asked questions