Why hire an educational consultant?
Years ago, students had a reasonable expectation of acceptance to highly selective schools, especially those at the top of their class. However, the process has changed dramatically and has become highly competitive. Students now apply to an average of 7-10 schools and colleges are far more particular about what they expect from students and who they want to enroll. It is challenging to set oneself apart when everyone applies via the “Common App”, yet another aspect of the process that has evolved. For example, the “Coalition Application” was introduced in 2016, adding even more options and greater complexity. Since many colleges offer “early action” and “early decision”, students have little time to recover from poor grades in early academic years or to “figure things out” during senior year. Although no college counselor can guarantee admission, consultants familiar with proven strategies and opportunities available can greatly enhance a student’s chances of acceptance to the school of their choice.
Isn’t a high school counselor enough?
As a former school counselor, Penny greatly values working in conjunction with the schools. College consultants supplement the services that the school is able to provide but it is important that students forge a strong relationship with their school counselor. Still, it is important to remember that public school counselors have large “caseloads” and only a limited amount of time to work with individuals. Penny is able to work with a small number of students each year and meet when it is most convenient for the student and family.
What makes you different from other consultants?
Perhaps one of the best ways to understand what it’s like to work with Penny is to read testimonials written by her students and parents. In addition, here are some things that may set Penny apart from her peers:
Penny’s comprehensive approach most often has her beginning with a student in freshman year and continues until well after the student has matriculated. She supports students as they transition into college and stays connected, often visiting students on their college campus.
She’ll meet at a family’s convenience (including in the evening and on weekends) and makes herself available via phone, email and texting. Of course, that is not enough reason to choose one counselor over another but it is a nice extra. ;-)
Why start thinking about college in 9th grade? Isn’t it too early?
Simply put, the choices made in freshman and sophomore years impact the opportunities you have for college. Questions come up repeatedly during those years that should be looked at with a long term perspective: Do I take an honors class? Will joining a club or sport look good on my application? Would my summer be better spent hiking the Long Trail or taking classes? Starting early, coupled with a comprehensive approach, is simply one of the best ways to reduce the stress of this process. Starting early helps you know what to expect and allows you to do the work at a pace that makes sense for you. Read more about our approach.
Do I have to know what I want to do with the rest of my life in order to pick a college?
No. “Undecided” and “undeclared” are the “major” that nearly half of all incoming college students choose when entering college. In fact, 75% of all college students change their major at least once during college! Plus, at most liberal arts colleges and universities, students have until the end of their sophomore year before they must declare their major. Of course it is helpful if students have at least a sense of their academic preferences. We use “interest inventories” and other proven methods to help students discover more about themselves, potential fields of interests and possible career paths.
Why does Penny visit so many colleges?
Penny tours dozens of colleges each year because it is one of the best ways to experience college life and to witness first-hand the trends in college admissions. Campus visits, especially the meetings with current students and faculty, provide a taste of the college’s culture and academic offerings. The range of educational opportunities available in this country is amazing. Occasionally an unfamiliar school turns out to be a “hidden gem” and since we are committed to finding a range of colleges that will best match a student's skills and needs, Penny’s touring of colleges is critical to the process. Colleges Penny has visited.
Do you help with figuring out the financial aspects of college?
It is difficult to overstate the value in discussing college costs early in the process. Too often, emotional reactions to the “sticker price” guide decisions about where to apply or which schools to eliminate. We work closely with families to identify what schools they can afford and the resources that are available. Although our expertise is not in financial planning, we do work to keep families informed about financial aid deadlines and scholarship opportunities.