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College counselors, what to expect?

I'm trying to choose/hire a college counselor. I need someone to work w/my dtr on essays, to help her find the best scholarships, and to keep her on schedule/deadlines. She's already compiled a list of schools. Seems the ones with whom I've spoken want to help compile the list. And, I feel the first consultation should be free, to determine the efficiency of the match, but most seem to want to charge quite a bit for first meeting, without any promises about what services they will provide, etc. I guess I don't know much about this as a field. Comments, ideas, help? Alison

On the other hand, there are many many college admissions advisors (I being one of them) that simply charge a flat hourly rate and will cater their services to the particular needs of the parents. It sounds like that is what you are looking for.

I think the factors to consider in choosing a college counselor are:

1. Reputation
2. Area(s)of expertise 
3. Price
and most importantly
4. Chemistry

Since their are a lot of independent counselors located the bay area, the best thing to do is shop around. Let the counselor know what your needs are and see you both can work from the same page.

As with anything, clear and constant communication (and a good vibe) are key.

I hope this helps. Robin

Recommendations from parents

I can recommend an EXCELLENT college essay coach: Lesley Quinn (I think she has a website). She worked with our son on all his admission essays and we were blown away by the end result. She's not cheap, and she doesn't help identify the best colleges - her focus is just the essays - but she's kind, insightful, goal-oriented, encouraging, and best of all, our son loved working with her and he got everything done early (which was a miracle). She talked with me for about 30 minutes on the phone (for free) about our son first, and then he met with her two times to brainstorm essay topics. After that, they sent essay drafts back and forth by email. Good luck. anon

We're going to want our high school junior to start thinking about his college essays pretty soon (he doesn't do well under the pressure of looming last-minute deadlines). He also works best one-on-one so signing him up for one of these summer bootcamps we're seeing isn't the best fit for him. Anyone have a recommendation for someone who can support him through this important writing challenge? Carol M

In the roller coaster ride of the admissions process, one of the best moments was a letter from a senior admissions officer at a small liberal arts college, who wrote to my daughter: ''I just wanted to tell you that I LOVED your college essay. Great work!''

That's my summary of our experience with Lesley Quinn.....great work! She can be reached at www.lesleyquinn.com. Happy mom/ successful senior

I am looking for a good college counselor in the Lamorinda area, who can provide assistance to an average student. If anyone has any recommendations, I'd be very grateful. Thanks for your help. Allison

I am looking for a college prep counselor for my daughter who is a junior at Albany High. She asked me to help her find someone who can do some aptitude/interest testing for eventual college/career choices and to help her sort through the options for her college education so she can become more clear about what might be right for her. Any ideas or recommendations? --Diane

Our daughter worked with Lesley Quinn (525-4104). Lesley totally got what our daughter wanted to convey and worked gently and insightfully, making suggestions that allowed her to develop her story and convey both her experience and her personality without feeling as if she were losing her voice or her control; her essays remained her own in every way. We'll never understand the mysterious application evaluation process but we feel that our daughter's essays conveyed to a room full of strangers a lot about who our daughter is. We highly recommend Lesley to those who face this daunting task. -A relieved parent

A while back, someone posted a recommendation for a woman who helped with the college admissions essay process. I think her name was Jamie? I can't find her in the archives, and would be grateful if someone could post her name and contact info again. Thanks! parent of high school senior

My son is going to start the college application process and I'm looking for a consultant who can help him with his personal statement essay. Does anyone have a recommendation for someone who has good experience with this? My older son received help from a former U.C. Berkeley application reader, but she is no longer available.

My daughter struggled with her college essay last year. She is a good enough writer but had enormous trouble talking about herself. Mid-summer, she consulted with a very expensive and well-known tutoring service. She got a sense of where to start and a ''hook'' for the essay and then got bogged down and remained there for months, despite more sessions with the original tutor. With the deadlines coming up, she found another person to help, who gave her advice that sent her another, and I might add, fruitless and frustrating direction. At the 11th hour, we finally found Jamie Keller, who read my daughter's lifeless essays, talked and listened carefully to her, and then patiently taught her how to show, rather than tell her story. Jamie worked with her through multiple versions and helped her find her voice. The final essays were compelling and rang true. In working with Jamie, my daughter gained confidence in herself as a writer, and she is sure that her essays helped her get into Cal. Jamie's number is 524-8697. Relieved Mom

I need a recommendation for a smart, sensitive, straight- talking private college admissions counselor who is reasonably priced, for my high school junior child. We know the basics and can research schools. We need someone to help our child with writing essays, staying on task and meeting deadlines, so that Mom isn't always the bad guy. Advice on where to apply (what is a ''safety'', what is a ''reach'') will be helpful as well. We live in Walnut Creek/Lafayette area. I have read previous posts to this list, but would really appreciate up-to-date recommendations. I have heard from too many friends who have been unhappy with the counselor they used. THANKS!! Junior Mom

Can anyone recommend a college coach to help a junior in high school start to figure out what type/size of schools they should look at. My daughter is an average student with lots of extracurricular activities who has no idea what she wants to study or where to begin the process. She'll be taking the SAT and ACT next month for the first time but we don't know what the next steps are beyond that. She is very busy with sports and her other activities and has asked if we could find someone to help us get organized, focused, and begin to navigate this process. Any recommendations? Thanks!

My daughter left for college recently and I'm reminded how enormously helpful her private college counselor, Annissa Hambouz, was in helping her to find a good fit. Annissa has been a private school teacher here and in NYC, relates well to teens, is well organized, creative in her advice and selection of schools and really sees each student as an individual. She has students around the Bay Area, including Marin and the East Bay. annissa[at]learninsausalito.net (website www.learninsausalito.net 415-516-8998
ppacf

I wanted to pass on the name of a fantastic college admissions consultant. Edith Zinn in Berkeley is a former University of Michigan Admissions Officer who worked with our son. She helped him develop a strategy, find a list of schools that were right for him, and then present himself in a way that colleges found attractive. Importantly, Edith is not one of those admissions counselors who works via fancy marketing or a one size fits all formula. She helped our son craft his own strategy. With Edith's help he was admitted at Dartmouth, UC Berkeley, the University of North Carolina, Carleton, and other top tier schools. Edith has been active in the field for at least 20 years and gets her clients via word of mouth. Her phone number is 510 528 0503. She usually books up early for the college admissions season, so it is worth contacting her soon.
VICTORIA

Hilary Roberts has tutored my son, Aaron, in his college application essays. She had a good sense of the amount of help my son wanted, and addressed his needs well. This helped him (and us parents) tremendously in this very high pressured situation. Aaron is now in his first choice college, and wishes to thank Hilary for her wonderful assistance. Her email address is: worddoc101@earthlink.net. Sincerely, Paul

I would recommend Mrs. Judi Flannery who use to work at Holy Names High School. You can reach her at Jpflann99 AT aol.com.
Former Parent from HNHS

My daughter is having a very positive college counseling experience with Annissa Hambouz. Ms. Hambouz was a social studies teacher and college counselor at a private school in Marin until this year and is now full time in her own practice. She relates well to teenagers, is well organized, creative in her advice and really sees each student as an individual. She works in Marin and the East Bay. website www.learninsausalito.net 415-516-8998
ppacf

Since it's getting to be that time when the Seniors need to write the application letters for the UC's, private colleges, etc., I'd like to recommend the person we used to help our daughter write hers. Hilary Roberts was able to help my very burned-out-on-school senior meet her deadlines and make a couple of rough drafts in a timely manner. Hilary was persistent when my child would have liked to have avoided the entire subject, but she persisted in a professional manner, so it worked. I appreciated that she brainstormed without writing or dictating the letter so the final product was definitely a true sample of my daughter's thinking, grammar and syntax. I recall the fees we paid to be reasonable and the relationship professional and leading to good feelings of accomplishment. I would absolutely recommend Hilary Roberts as our daughter was accepted at most of the schools to which she applied and had many good choices and I do attribute that to the synergy of the work they did together. Before engaging with Hilary I had concern that the essays wouldn't get written. Her email address is: worddoc101@earthlink.net Jill

I'd like to recommend a tutor who helps teens write application essays for colleges & universities, scholarships and other academic programs. Monica helped my daughter write a successful essay that reflected her personal experience and voice while ensuring the application requirements were met. She has excellent rapport with teens.

Monica has over 10 years teaching and tutoring experience, including work at the UC Berkeley Student Learning Center and Summer Bridge Programs, UC Berkeley's Early Academic Outreach Program and Pre-College Academy, and UC San Diego's OASIS Writing Program. She specializes in helping students in every step of the process, from brainstorming topics to polishing and editing final drafts.

I highly recommend Monica's services and I feel she's well worth the $50/hour rate. Monica Ng Muller can be reached at monica1201@comcast.net or 510-282-3273. Deb

My daughter is a junior at BHS. We are thinking it would be a good idea to consult an independent college counselor for assistance. I have searched the archives, but found only one or two listings. Does anyone have current advice for me along these lines?

She seems to know her stuff, and she gives the kids lots of information, but also makes them research certain things independently (like she'll come up with a long list of colleges that might meet your child's needs, but then expects your child to send for the initial materials to narrow the list.)

Her hourly fee was reasonable, and ultimately, it didn't cost us that much-. And the hassle we saved in not having to be the ones to edit his work (it's amazing how much easier it is for teens to accept feedback from adults who are not their parents....)made it all worthwhile. Anyway, good luck! barbara

To the parent(s) looking for a college counselor: If you can't find a local counselor who is available, as a back-up you might check out the college(s) that you attended. My alma mater has a free college-counseling service for alumni who are parents of college applicants. The service is available regardless of where the student wants to apply for college, and it can be given by e-mail, phone, or in person. I have gotten some useful information and advice from the counselor who administers that service. Juliann

I highly recommend Barbara Manierre (464-1056). She brings enthusiasm and good humor to the college application process plus a wealth of first hand knowledge about schools, a high level of organization, and great editing skills. By setting up writing deadlines, she was able to get my 'leave it to the last minute' son to work on multiple drafts of his essays and reduce the overall anxiety of the process considerably.

Jim and Dot Walker

College Counselor for Dyslexic Student

My dyslexic daughter is a junior in high school. Does anyone have a recommendation for a college counselor who is good with kids with learning disabilities? anon

Students with learning differences (LD) should keep four general ideas in mind when considering colleges.

First, by federal law, every college in the country has programs and services for LD students. UC's, community colleges, Harvard. All of them.

Second, you are unique and complex - not just ''LD.'' So consider colleges based on other factors - majors, location, extracurriculars, campus life, etc. - but also see if the LD services fit your specific needs.

Third, unless LD has had no impact on your academic performance in high school, disclose it in your application - and, more importantly, say what you have done to overcome any limitations it created for you.

Finally, don't rely on general advice. Call colleges directly. Call Admissions. Call the Disability Office. Tell them your situation and ask about procedures and policies.

Secondly, not all college disabilities services are created equal. This was a major part of our son's college search. We learned that by law every college/university must accomodate demonstrated learning disabilities, but not all colleges have the same quality of services. Be on the look out for the term, ''Comprehensive'' program. You can ask if the college has a ''Comprehensive'' program. It is often a fee based program that includes a seamless relationship between disabilities (accomodations by law) and the student and the faculty. It may include weekly meetings with a personal advisor, accountability, organizational specialist, reading specialist, counselling, etc. Check out the program at the University of Denver: http://www.du.edu/disability/ It is a model program that has now celebrated its 25th year of the Learning Experiential Program for LD and ADHD students. Best to you! l

College advisor with ADD expertise

We are looking for a college advisor who has expertise and experience helping with applications and selecting colleges for ADD kids (whose academic record is not steller). Thanks for any suggestions. worried mom

College Counselor for homeschooler

I'm looking for recommendations for a college counselor who has specific experience working with homeschoolers and kids who have nontraditional high school experience. I've seen some of the posts on college counselors here, but I'm hoping someone knows of one that works with our particular situation - I have a 16 year old daughter who completed two years of public high school before taking the CHSPE exam and thereby ''testing out'' of high school. This year she is not enrolled in school, but is continuing to pursue academic work through other programs. She is a very high achieving student with great grades and test scores, but we need more information about what she'll need to do to apply to college without a traditional high school background.

homeschool parent

Announcements from private consultants

Sep 21 2009

Integrative Private High School and College Application Coach

I am a college English teacher and published writer with ten
years experience teaching writing, reading and academic
success to students of all ages.  I have helped many
students get into their dream schools.  

I will help your student:

Draft and revise short answer questions and personal statements

Prepare for entrance exams and minimize test anxiety

Manage deadlines and meet their goals

Research their choices so they can effectively answer the
question, ''Why do you want to go to this school?'' 

For more information or for a free one-hour consultation
please call or visit my website: 

http://aurorabrackett.blogspot.com/

Sliding scale hourly rate: $60-$90

Some useful dates!
* Applications for UC Berkeley and SFSU are due at the end
of November.
* Early decision deadline for most colleges is Nov. 1st.
* SAT, SSAT and ISEE test dates begin October-November.
Aurora Brackett aurora.brackett[at]gmail.com 510-919-2511

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Sep 05 2009

Need help with your college application essay or interview?
 I can help!  During college application season, I work with
a limited number of students by taking the time to
understand the student and tailor the college application
process specific to his or her needs.

Entering my fourth season as a college admissions
consultant, I have helped Bay Area students get into the
college of their choice, including Harvard, Columbia, MIT,
UC Berkeley, and UCLA.

My academic background:
- The College Preparatory School, 1995
- Harvard University, B.A., 1999
- Northeastern University, J.D., 2006

My other qualifications:
- Harvard Alumni Interviewer (10 years)
- Attorney
- Educator
- Former Asian-American Coordinator for Harvard?s
Undergraduate Minority Recruitment Program

If interested, e-mail me at hchang@post.harvard.edu. 
References available upon request.
Heather Chang hchang[at]post.harvard.edu 

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Aug 27 2009

I help your teenager find a college that is a good fit
through identifying his or her strengths, passions and
interests. I also help with the college admissions essay. My
background includes work as a career coach and a masters
degree in psychology. I am available for sessions on Sundays
as well as weekdays. You can also contact me for help with
writing skills, organizational/study skills, and tutoring in
English and History. My rate is $90 hour + $15 travel fee. 
Tarra Christoff coachtarra[at]earthlink.net 415-389-8287

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Aug 17 2009

HARVARD GRADUATE COLLEGE APPLICATION COUNSELOR
I have years of experience writing successful applications: 
- College Preparatory School graduate (2000)
- Harvard graduate (2004; double major with honors; award-winning thesis)
- Fulbright scholar in Vietnam (2005-6) 
- UNESCO Fellow (2007) 

These steps required a honing of my application writing skills, which I 
learned from Harvard's exclusive application writing counselors. I'm here to 
share those secrets.

THE TUTORIALS
My aim is to comprehensively prepare students for the college application 
process. I help students dissect the college application and learn the art of 
presenting oneself to the admission board--with a special focus on the 
college essay. Other elements of the tutorials include getting 
recommendations, executing short answers, and preparing for college 
interviews. 

Rates: $50/hour (discounts for group study). I can also help with high school 
applications.
Nathalie Miller nathaliemiller[at]gmail.com 510 502 1595

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Jul 10 2009

Dear Parents,

I am a community college instructor with 5 years of teaching
experience. I have helped many of my own students transfer
to prestigious universities, including the University of
California system. Recent placements include UC-Berkeley and
UC-Davis.

Services offered:

College admission consulting
College transfer consulting
College planning
Academic resume building
Leadership building
Extra-curricular building
Essay writing tutoring

College admission coaching packages starts at $250.

One-year and two-year packages are available.

E-mail: Le@Academic-Services.com

Contact Person: Trung Le

Education: I was educated at the University of California at
Berkeley, and hold a Bachelor's in Psychology and a Master's
in Philosophy from San Jose State University. 

Teaching Experience: Five years teaching experience at San
Jose State University, De Anza College, Diablo Valley College
Trung Le Le[at]Academic-Services.com 408-836-5290

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Jun 27 2009

I offer comprehensive personalized college consulting 
through every step of the college admissions process. 

I am a Harvard graduate who comes from ''the other side of 
the desk'' with experience in admissions offices at Harvard 
College, the University of Michigan, and UC Berkeley School 
of Law, Boalt Hall. I have been a college consultant for 
more than nine years. I am Special Editor for Get Into 
College, an insider?s guide to the admissions process, 
published in 2009. 

Please visit thewayinconsulting.com to learn more or 
contact me directly at jkabat@thewayinconsulting.com or 
415.609.1500.
Jennifer Kabat jykabat[at]thewayinconsulting.com 415.609.1500

-----------------------------------------------

Jun 02 2009

I have been a college consultant for more than nine years. 
I am a Harvard graduate who comes from ''the other side of 
the desk'' with experience in admissions offices at Harvard 
College, the University of Michigan, and UC Berkeley School 
of Law, Boalt Hall. I am Special Editor for Get Into 
College, an insiders guide to the admissions process, 
published in 2009. 

My students have gained admission to: Stanford, University 
of Pennsylvania, UCLA, Brown, UC Berkeley, University of 
Chicago, George Washington, Boston University, CU Boulder, 
Barnard, Emory, UC Davis, University of Michigan, and many 
others. 

I personally guide my students through every step of the 
college admissions process including: 
 Creation of strong, balanced college list 
 Comprehensive personal statement and essay critique 
 Interview coaching 
 Strong teacher and counselor recommendations 

Please contact me directly at: 
thewayinconsulting.com 
415.609.1500 
Jennifer Kabat jkabat[at]thewayinconsulting.com 415.609.1500

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Oct 29 2008

Dear parents,

As the academic year progresses, the time for completing the college 
application process approaches. If your child needs assistance with 
completing the process in any area, from selecting the right schools to 
writing an excellent application essay, I am available to help!

I am an educator with a current teaching credential and a MA in education 
from Mills College. 

My hourly fee of $60-75 is on a sliding scale.

I look forward to hearing from you and to helping your child realize his or her 
college dreams!

Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sara Norris saranorris[at]alumnae.mills.edu 408 644-6182

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Oct 10 2008

Admissions Essay Editing and Coaching with a Professional Writer

The best way to help your student become a distinctive
applicant is to ensure that your student's admissions essays
reflect the unique strengths that he or she will bring to an
entering class. 

I'm excited to announce to BPN that Ive launched my
website: http://getthewordsright.com. I graduated from
Stanford in 2003 and received my MFA in creative writing in
2006. I've taught writing at both the college and graduate
levels, and discovered I enjoy helping students bring out
their own distinct voices in their writing. Having spent
several years working in college and graduate school
admissions, I know what kinds of essays get read with
interest. My students have had success getting into top
colleges, law and medical schools, and have been awarded
competitive scholarships.

I offer other tutoring services, and am happy to meet your
student at your home.

Best of luck!
Marisa Egerstrom megerstrom[at]gmail.com 415-710-2574

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Sep 19 2008

I'm an essayist, editor, and writing coach who works with
high school seniors to create college application essays
intended to catapult their applications directly onto
the 'YES' pile.  We work together to narrow down the most
compelling theme and organizing structure.  We discuss ways
to employ classic literary techniques to craft and polish
until what we have, in the students own words, is a first
rate personal essay.  For more information, see
http://www.lesleyquinn.com/
Lesley Quinn lesley@qua.com

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Sept 12, 2008

Re: essay coach named Jamie?
Hello,

I am the Jamie from the posting about helping students with
their personal essay statements for college. I'd be happy to
talk to you about your student and answer any questions you
may have.

You can reach me at 510 524 8697.

Thanks,
Jamie
jamie Keller jamiekeller@lmi.net