There is so much press about university admissions that it’s hard to know what to believe or where to begin the process.
The number of choices may appear overwhelming, or not be sufficiently broad. Students and parents alike are often confused about U.S. or U.K. admissions criteria and whether or not their student will be admitted. Working with a professional will help keep the process focused and alleviate much of the stress involved with applying to and getting into college.
Support the Process
Perhaps more than anything, both students and families need moral support during this process. I have yet to meet a family not needing this type of support. Students and parents can become anxious and need to be reassured that everything will be okay. Sometimes students procrastinate and need someone other than parents to drive the process, keep them organized, and hold them to deadlines. Questions arise and the family needs credible and honest answers. The relationship between students, parents, and us as consultants is critical. This is more than just about “getting things done.”
As consultants for U.K. and U.S. university admissions, we work directly with our students. These are just some of the ways we work with students as they go through the university application process:
Get to know the student to understand his or her abilities, skills, talents, interests, personality, and learning style;
Suggest appropriate universities and guide the student through the research phase;
Advise on appropriate testing strategies and timelines for the application process;
Assist students in telling their story throughout the application so that their uniqueness will shine;
Help to plan how to make the most of their college visits, whether it be virtual or in person;
Guide students through the college essay and supplemental essay writing process in order to create a memorable story;
Work with the family on finalizing the college list;
Discuss the financial considerations of their college choices and available options for financial assistance;
Coach students on the university interview process;
Help students meet all application deadlines;
Meet with students to help them finalize their choices after acceptances are received; and
Advise students through the transition to college, setting them up for success once they are ready to leave home
More about Rebecca and her credentials for college advising
More and more people are entering the business of college advising, and students and families must choose their consultant wisely. It’s not only important that personalities click, but also that the consultant is qualified to guide the student. Here are some things to know about Rebecca (Becky). She:
Holds a Master’s degree in Education and has worked in 3 different schools
Completed all courses and electives for the UCLA Extension Certificate in College Counseling
Designed and teaches the online course for other consultants called, “American College Consulting for the International Student” through UC Irvine
Has earned the “College” and “International” designation as a professional member of IECA, as well as for her work with students with Learning Disabilities
Attends various professional development conferences devoted to college counseling every year
Has visited several hundred colleges and universities around the United States
Has advised scores of students successfully through the college process
Is part of several networking groups devoted to professional development in college counseling
Maintains professional memberships in *IECA, *HECA, *NACAC, and *OACAC
Has led many college workshops and presentations for students and parents alike
Is proud of the fact that she works with a range of students, from those who are prepared for the “Ivies” to those who sometimes struggle academically. There is a college for everyone.
You can read more about her bio here.
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