FAQ

Navigating the complexities of college applications, from building a competitive profile to choosing the right majors and institutions, can be overwhelming. This is especially true given the high student-to-counselor ratios in most high schools, which limit personalized guidance.

An Independent Educational Consultant (IEC) offers individualized support, helping students with coursework, extracurricular activities, and summer plans tailored to their interests and goals. An IEC not only broadens college options and reduces application anxiety but also provides crucial guidance on factors such as academic and cultural fit, financial aid, and long-term career prospects. This empowers students to make informed decisions about their future.

I offer highly personalized college counseling, working with only 3-4 seniors annually to ensure individualized attention in building competitive application profiles. This is a stark contrast to larger consulting firms, where consultants often manage 20 or more students. My approach goes beyond simply achieving admissions outcomes; I focus on helping students reflect on their interests, goals, and priorities to discover the best-fit college environment. With a background in Computer Science and Engineering and 18 years of experience in the tech industry, I provide families with expert, objective insights into college choices and career trends. As a parent in the competitive San Francisco Bay Area, I understand the unique pressures of this environment and strive to reduce parent-student tension, fostering a more relaxed and positive high school experience for all.

I also adhere to the IECA Principles of Good Practice

Beginning college planning early in high school allows students to thoughtfully consider their options, strategically plan their coursework, and engage in meaningful extracurricular activities. This ultimately reduces stress and sets them up for success. A common starting point for many students is during the second semester of 11th grade when they begin building their college list. However, I encourage students to schedule an initial session during 9th or 10th grade, as decisions made during these years significantly impact the college application process. While it’s never too late to start, waiting until 12th grade can make the process feel rushed and stressful.

I strongly recommend that parents attend the introductory sessions with their students. Afterward, it is crucial to allow students to take the lead in their college discovery and application process. I will schedule parent meetings for updates and to address any questions or concerns throughout the process, as needed.

I cannot guarantee your student’s admission to their dream college. No ethical educational consultant can promise admission to any specific institution. However, I will guide you through every step of the process to build a competitive profile for selective schools and help create a balanced college list that maximizes your student’s chances of acceptance at the best-fit colleges.

I will not write students’ essays or complete their applications for them. This would be unethical. Instead, I guide students in brainstorming authentic essay topics that reflect their own stories, personalities, and goals and provide feedback on improving their essays. Students are responsible for completing their applications, and I provide support in presenting themselves effectively to showcase their strengths and in efficiently managing the application process to ensure timely submissions.

The first step is to schedule a complimentary consultation. During this session, I’ll answer your questions, provide more details about my services, and discuss how my approach can support your goals—ensuring we’re the right fit for each other.