There are thousands of colleges and universities and it can be overwhelming to know how to sift through them and find the ones that deserve consideration.  Helping students select colleges that meet their individual needs is my specialty. This is based on my years as a clinical social worker, matching clients to the services and resources they needed to reach their fullest potential. Additionally, my training as an art therapist allows me to utilize creative techniques to help students identify what type of school is best suited for them.  I believe that “finding your college fit” is based on many factors including academic, emotional, social, and financial.  I also assist students in exploring potential majors if they are undecided. I have a knack for introducing students to colleges that are hidden gems and I pride myself on helping students to explore options they had not previously considered and tapping into excitement about the college process. I take the time to get to know each student as a unique individual and I have great resources in my tackle box.

I have visited campuses all over the country and each year I tour and meet admissions professionals on campus and at professional conferences and workshops to garner knowledge and the most up to date information. I can help your family make an organized plan regarding campus tours. I can also provide students with insight regarding ways they can stand out and show interest in a school if they can’t travel to campus.

I can help identify which schools value personal interviews.  For many students, this can be a huge boost to their application. We prepare for what to expect by practicing mock interviews and putting personal thought to their own questions and concerns so that each student feels more at ease.

Writing college essays can be scary for students because they are unaccustomed to writing in the style that college admissions professionals value.  I help each student find their voice and express themselves even if writing does not come easy for them.

Students who are considering continuing their musical training in college need to understand the different types of collegiate and conservatory programs and find the fit that is right for them. Applications for direct admission into many music programs often require additional steps and I can help educate students and their families about this process.

Students who are considering continuing athletic pursuits in college need to understand the different types of athletic programs and find the fit that is right for them. There are additional components to the college process for student athletes and I can help students get organized and prepared.

Students whose parents did not attend college may have support but lack the knowledge they need to make informed choices. Truthfully, even if their parents did attend college, the admissions process has changed so much in recent years that their understanding may be irrelevant.  I have volunteered my time for years to guide first generation students and I understand the unique aspects of being the first in your family to go to college. I have up to date resources and information on the colleges and universities that best support students on this journey.

Parents are more concerned than ever about their child’s college decisions given its rising cost and the enormity of investing in a college education. The college process continues to change daily. I love to learn about the trends and gather the latest information on every aspect of higher education. I was recently a college coach at a workshop for rising seniors where I helped students explore colleges that matched their needs. The encyclopedic knowledge of colleges that each coach on my team had led someone to exclaim, “You know you’re not normal, right?” For me, this was a great compliment!

Most families would never buy a house or a car without knowing what it was going to cost. Families are often consoled by being told to not pay attention to cost because they will rarely pay the “sticker price”; and while this is somewhat true, it is not all true.  Having realistic financial information about each college is the most important factor in college search and selection from start to finish. I give families the tools they need to determine which colleges are apt to be the best financial fit. I can help demystify the various types of financial aid and scholarships that are available. I also help families review final offers and translate financial aid award letters.