FAQs

 

 

Stress over this process usually comes from a lack of adequate knowledge which can feel overwhelming. When a student drags his or her feet or when a parent or guardian has very different expectations about their child's future, tension can arise. My job encompasses helping families to identify the starting point and then assistng them in keeping everything on track. An educational consultant can definitely help the student to take more responsibility for the process and therefore help them to develop their independence.

 

How and when should we get started?

Of course this varies considerably depending on the student but the majority of students that come to see me are rising juniors in high school. They come from public and private high schools and sometimes from a great distance. By carefully reviewing a student's academic record and asking in-depth questions I can guide a student towards a first list of schools to look at and begin their search. Certain students should start the process earlier - see last queston below.

 

How involved should parents / guardians be?

Parents and guardians are a crucial part of this process but it is so important to remember that students are in the process of letting go of the family. it can be a turbulent time for families for this reason; more for some than others. In just a short while these students will be in an environment where they will have to make many more decisions on their own and my best piece of advice is: "Be the guide on the side not the sage on the stage." This is where the consultant can help by bridging the gap.

 

How can we be sure we are adequately organized to meet all the deadlines?

There are testing requirements and college application and financial aid deadlines to be aware of. There are also Early Action and Early Decision options to consider. Consultants can draw up a timeline which keeps students on track. It is also important for students and families to remain working closely with their school guidance departments because they are a crucial part of the application process and coordinate all the school documentation.

 

What is the "right fit" school?

This of course is the million dollar question and the reason that so many families do choose to work with me. Though Collegequest-ions cannot guarantee acceptance to an institution, our knowledge base of Colleges and Universities is extensive. I can help to match particular strenghts or specific programs and someimes idiosyncracies. My personal connections with admissions counselors also allows for easy discussion concerning particular students and their needs.

 

How can a student become aware of personal strengths and choose a focus for study?

Certainly the beauty of a liberal arts education is that in many cases it is not necessary for a student to know exactly what they want to study as they enter college. But this varies tremendously and sometimes it is imperative to be sure. The in-depth interview that I have with each student and with parents / guardians can reveal connections that may not previously have been made. Interest and career testing is another aspect of my work that some families choose to use.

 

How can a student communicate his or her uniqueness to a college?

These are the finer parts of the application process. There are many admissions tips to be learned and ways to make sure that the completed application is the best it can be. The college essay is just one example of this. Many famiies will choose to take advantage of a variety of services offered in this area.

 

How do we apply for financial aid and obtain scholarships?

Many families seek information on filling out the FAFSA and the CSS Profile. Advice can also be given on merit, athletic and talent scholarships.

 

How can I find a school that will accomodate exceptional learning styles?

Over the years this has become an area of particular interest for me since I began to realize that there is a dearth of information out there. Different schools offer varying degrees of support. I can help families to navigate through what often seems like a maze. For this particular population the process should start earlier - I would suggest mid-way through the sophomore year. There are some early orientation programs that are worth taking advantage of which I can suggest.