FAQs
Do I need a college counselor?
It depends. If you have a school counselor who is able to provide adequate time to support your college search and application process, then you may be all set. Unfortunately, many counselors, especially at larger schools, lack the time and resources to provide individualized college counseling. I am fortunate to be able to spend the time needed to get to know my students and their families and work closely with them.
When do students start working with you?
I work with high school students from 9th through 12th grade. There are some decisions early on that freshman and sophomores can consider that may have an impact on future college options and I am happy to meet with these younger students, but the bulk of my work is done with juniors and seniors.
What services do you offer?
Students and families come to me at different stages of the college search and application process and they have varying needs. I assist families with a full range of services including building a prospective college list, completing applications, brainstorming college essay topics and then encouraging students to get their ideas on paper, standardized test strategizing, resume/activity sheet work, interview preparation, campus visit planning, financial aid and scholarship advice, gap year guidance and decision and wait list advice.
How do you charge for services?
College Counseling packages include video conference meetings, phone calls, emails, and texts.
When and where do you meet with students?
I am available to meet with students during the week after school and in the evenings, and on the weekends. Meetings are on Zoom or phone. I understand that high school students are busy, so I try to be as flexible as possible.
What should we look for in an independent counselor?
Finding a counselor who has college admissions experience in addition to high school experience is important. No credential or certificate program can take the place of "walking the walk" in a college admissions office. I have spent much of my career as a college admissions officer reading applications, pouring over essays, evaluating activities and understanding the context of the students' experiences. And for 18 years, I have worked at independent high schools including 14 years as Director of College Counseling at Kehillah Jewish High School in Palo Alto.