Helping students and their families navigate the critical
college and career planning process.
The college and career decision-making process is both critical and complex. Questions about where to apply, what to study and how to afford college can be overwhelming for both students and their families. I can help you navigate this crucial decision with confidence. My approach acknowledges that every student’s decision is unique to their interests, values, passions, skills, and circumstances. By exploring these, I will help the student and their family find the right fit for them and give them confidence in their choice.
I work with students in person and online using a systematic approach to the college and career planning process:
The Power of Understanding
When I work with a student, my first task is to gain a deeper understanding of them. What makes them tick? What subjects ignite their academic curiosity? What activities are fun and interesting? What are their skills and their values? How do they learn? The process includes a variety of assessment tools, personal interviews, and conversations with the family. My goal is to know the student well and help them understand and value themselves.
Building a Plan
I help students take their knowledge of themselves and build upon it. As a foundation, I work with the student and family to develop an academic roadmap that helps them prepare effectively for college. In addition, I find academic enrichment and career exploration opportunities so students can do more of what they love. I challenge students to tap their interests and do new things, to create impact in the world around them, and to test their skills. These experiences build confidence and help prepare them to be strong applicants for college.
Making a Match
A deep knowledge of colleges and universities and their admissions practices allows me to create a strong list of potential colleges for students. This process typically widens the scope of options being considered. I help students and families research those schools, find the places they really love, and narrow the list to a great set of colleges that match the student’s interests, skills and personality.
Telling the Story
Students need to tell their unique story in college applications. Because I’ve taken the time to know them, I’m able to support them as they do that. The story is theirs to tell and the applications are theirs to complete. My role is to encourage them as they cross the tasks off the list, to help them find their creative spark, and to remind them of the value and the gifts they will bring to the colleges. Ultimately, my goal is that the student tells a story in the applications that is true to them and differentiates them from the other applicants.
Straightforward Advice
Throughout the process, I give students and families my honest advice. I build strong relationships with students so that they know I believe in them. I help them make plans that reflect the reality of their accomplishments and the possibilities they dream of.