I give guidance on how to get the most out of campus visits, how to communicate with admission reps and I help students prepare for their interviews with mock interview practice. Beginning in early August, I support my students in the proper completion of their Common Application in addition to brainstorming and editing support for their college essay, writing supplements and scholarship applications.

For those applying for financial aid, I can offer guidance regarding the FAFSA and the CSS Profile.

I advise on how to proceed with college acceptances, deferrals, waitlists and financial aid packages.

Finally, my support can include basic advice regarding a gap year along with college course selection and advisory check-in during the first semester of college.

Many students have no idea of what they would like to study while others know exactly which major they will pursue; some students are worried about going to college, while others cannot wait to dive right in; some students are looking for an unconventional academic experience or a BFA program; others want a  traditional collegiate environment with clear academic expectations.  I work with students who have never set foot on a college campus or even thought about college, along with those who struggle in high school and may qualify for academic accommodations.  As both the college counselor at the Lake Champlain Waldorf High School and as a consultant working with private clients, I have considerable experience in supporting a broad range of students.

Factors that might contribute to an institution being appropriate for a student include a college’s athletic division, performing arts facility, strength of a particular academic department and presence of Greek life. Other factors could include the level of accommodations for a learning or other difference in addition to geographical location and proximity to an urban environment.

I guide students towards finding their “right fit” colleges, where they would thrive for their entire undergraduate experience.

For financial guidance in completing the forms, I refer my clients to a highly competent financial advisor.

In regards to requests for additional financial aid, I offer guidance in how to deal with a college’s financial aid department.

For students interested in merit aid awards, I structure my list of ‘Good Fit’ colleges to include schools where the student would qualify for merit aid awards, which typically range from $5,000 to $30,000 per year. Some colleges also offer a limited number of half and full-tuition merit awards.