Frequently Asked Questions

No, and any college counselor that tells you otherwise isn’t being fully truthful. I will work with students to ensure that they are able to put the very best of themselves into their applications and showcase their strengths. I will work with younger students to help them think about how they spend their time and how to maximize their unique set of skills and talents. I will not, however, be able to ensure any specific outcomes.

Short answer - most students receive little to no support in their college process from school. At a typical public school, a student is expected to see their counselor once in junior year and once in senior year, primarily to ensure that students are “on track.” These counselors are by-in-large knowledgeable and dedicated professionals working within a system that doesn’t allow for highly-personalized college counseling. The ratios of counselors to students are high and the time is not there to allow for deep and personal relationships.

Parents who went to college did so at a time when admissions looked quite different. Plus, even those students who have the very best relationships with their parents hear advice differently from them versus outside professionals. Hiring an independent college counselor allows for a relationship to develop that supports primarily the student but also the parents as they navigate and plan for what’s ahead.

• Myth - you have to be perfect, all As, perfect scores, all the things to get into a “good” college. 

• Myth - there are about 25 “good” colleges in this country

• Myth - finances will just work out

• Myth - there are certain activities or essay topics or ways of living or being that colleges look for

I work with students in grades 9-12. 

For students in grades 9 and 10, it is more about relationship-building and thinking about ways to make the most of high school. It’s having a 3rd-party partner to think through decisions with and ensure that you’re making these decisions in a way that sets you up for success upon a strong foundation.

For 11th grade students, we shift more into the college process specifically, with more regular meetings that focus around building a balanced list, a testing plan that makes sense, shaping activities, planning for summer and beyond, and digging deep on self-reflection that then aligns with college research and knowledge.

In 12th grade, we meet often to work through each part of the applications. Essays and supplements, activity lists and resumes, interviews and program selections, there are a seemingly endless set of drop-downs and choices and I will guide you through each step.

I work with students both in person (if local to the Pittsburgh area) and on Zoom to define aspirations and goals and to work towards them. I help students see their unique value and contributions and then put the best parts of themselves forward for others (colleges) to see.

Parents educated outside of the US often feel particularly overwhelmed, and sometimes helpless, when it comes to supporting their child in the college process. The US higher education system is unlike anywhere else in the world. By partnering with a trusted guide, you will both learn alongside your student and feel more empowered while they also gain confidence in navigating the road ahead. I have worked with many families who are in this position. 

I primarily work with students on a comprehensive package that includes an ongoing conversation, work between sessions, and frequent communication. I also work hourly with students and families. Contact me for more specific pricing and packages.