Exploring College Choices LLC

How can consultants help students with high school courses?

A consultant can help students make smart choices about their high school courses so that they stay on track for college admissions.

How can consultants help in college selections?

Although no consultant can guarantee admission to any individual college, consultants can help identify and match the students' strengths and qualities to colleges and universities that will value those attributes and meet their interests, needs and admissions profile.

How do consultants help with college admission testing such as the SAT or the ACT?

A professional consultant can answer questions about which college entrance exams are most appropriate for the student and when to schedule testing. Exploring College Choices does not offer test prep but can offer referrals.

How do you help with college applications and essays?

I work with each student to establish a realistic schedule for staying on top of application details and deadlines. We brainstorm ideas for essay topics. I will review application elements including essays and short answers.

Do you discuss majors and careers?
I offer personality and work inventory assessments to determine the student's strengths and qualities to spark discussions on possible majors and careers. Students often benefit from guidance in choosing majors and careers that are a good match, as well as information about which colleges offer strong programs in those areas of interest.  

How can you help with financial aid?

Many families worry about how to pay for college expenses. I can help your family navigate these concerns, while pointing your family in the direction of financial aid and merit scholarship opportunities.

How can you help in reducing stress?

A non-biased third party can provide help in reducing stress so that you and your child can focus on enjoying this time together, rather than having family conflicts over completing college applications.  

Is the fee determined at the start with no hidden costs added later?

I offer a free initial consultation to answer your questions and explain my approach in guiding students and their families on the college admissions process.  There is no obligation as I believe “chemistry” is very important in a successful partnership. The comprehensive package is all-inclusive and there will be no surprise “hidden” fees. Please contact info@exploringcollegechoices.com for details.

What are some tips in finding the right college consultant for my family?

• Start with your child. The college admissions consultant you choose should be a good match for your child’s personality, have experience with students with similar admissions profiles, and be supportive of your child’s college aspirations.

• The consultant should focus on minimizing stress and anxiety, not increasing it. Professional college admissions consultants understand that college planning can be stressful at times, and they should strive to reduce that anxiety for both students and parents.

• The consultant should demonstrate college admissions-related knowledge, experience and training. A professional college admissions consultant should be knowledgeable about a wide range of colleges and universities as well as current admissions trends, and they should also have experience helping students through the college search and application process while remaining committed to on-going professional development.

• The consultant should be committed to maintaining high ethical standards in their practice. Ethical consultants do not guarantee admission into specific colleges or promise financial awards. They do not suggest that they have “special pull” with certain college admissions professionals. They also do not write essays or other application materials for students.

Taken from the Higher Education Consultant Association’s “Benefits of  Working With A College Consultant".