Initial Holistic Student Review

First and foremost, I want to get to know you! What are your interests, hobbies, and academic and personal goals? How can I best support and guide you through this process? Are there any areas you feel stuck or unsure about your postsecondary path? Taking the time to get to know you, what makes you tick, and what lights you up, will allow us to craft applications uniquely representative of you.

While we’re getting to know each other, I will begin reviewing your transcript (courses and grades), standardized test scores (if taken), extracurricular activities, the courses you are currently taking, as well as the courses that you plan to take in the following year (if applicable). I’ll help you to determine any areas you can build on to ensure the maximum consideration of your application.

College List Assessment

We’ll take a deep dive into your college list and categorize each program as a “likely,” “target,” or “reach” school based on our initial review of your goals, interests, and academics when compared to the institution’s profile and admissions standards. A great school list has a mix of all 3 of these! By crafting a well-rounded list, we are working to meet your student where they are now, as well as providing the opportunity for them to grow and continue evaluating the best postsecondary setting for them.

Completing Applications

Once we have a well-rounded school list, we will create clear, specific plans and timelines to keep you organized and on track to meet deadlines. I’ll help to clarify application instructions, coordinate application materials, and guide you through every step of the process. On completion of the drafts, we will conduct a thorough review of each application to ensure there are no errors, inconsistencies, or unanswered questions before submission. Missing information, materials, or errors are among the most common reasons applications may be rejected, so you can rest easy knowing we are meticulous in this part of the process.

Essays/Personal Statements/Supplemental Writing

The college essay is often an intimidating part of the application process, but together we will work to brainstorm essay topic ideas and content. I will work with you through the revision process and offer suggestions on how you can ensure your writing is both authentic and compelling.  

In addition to the college essay, we will work together to identify and complete all required supplemental writing questions per your school list. Whether it’s the personal statement essay or the supplemental writing, we will make sure you have clear, polished, well-organized pieces to enhance your application.

Student Activity Section

The student activity section is an important piece of the college application. This is your opportunity to showcase who you are both inside and outside of the classroom. It gives admissions a glimpse into who you are, your character, and what you might bring to their community, all important factors when reviewing applicants. We will work together to create an activity sheet that is clear, concise, and reflective of who you are and highlights your skills, talents, and interests.  

Standardized Testing Strategy

As more and more colleges and programs become test-optional, it can be challenging to determine when your scores might positively or negatively impact your application. Whether you have taken the ACT, SAT, or neither, I will offer advice on which standardized tests to take or re-take to maximize your admissions potential and offer recommendations on when to submit your scores.  

Letters of Recommendation

We’ll talk through everything, from whom you should request letters of recommendation; to how and when to make these requests, as well as how you can provide writers with enough information to effectively communicate your genuine strengths and passions.

Individualized Tools

Throughout my years working with students and families through the college application process, I have created several tools that I have found integral to keeping the process organized and efficient and that help to reduce stress and overwhelm. I will provide each student with tools and documents tailored to their specific needs and goals.