Applying for college has become a highly competitive and time consuming process, leaving many parents and their children stressed, confused and wondering if they made the right choices. Over the past decade, so many changes have altered the college application landscape that straight-A students find themselves shut out of many of the top schools, and average students may have no idea where to apply. What used to be a simple task of filling out an application has become a minefield of test scores, essays and weighted GPAs, and is often best navigated by a growing field of specialized consultants. According to Janet Rosier, an Independent Admissions Consultant in Woodbridge, “Many students require more time than the guidance counselors in their high school can devote to them. Parents want to understand and be a part of the process. They are often shocked to find that colleges that were considered safety schools not that long ago are now extremely competitive.
Finding the right college is one of the most important decisions a child will make. With more than 2000 four-year colleges in the U.S, it can be difficult for students to know which college is the right “fit”. Independent Consultants help students choose and apply to colleges that are a good fit socially and emotionally as well as academically.
In today’s supercharged world, students can feel overwhelmed with choices: Which standardized tests to take, applying for Early Action or Early Decision, how important is the essay? Rosier counsels them from start to finish.
“I guide students through the entire college search and admissions process, including helping them decide which tests to take and when to take them. I keep students on track for deadlines and prepare them for campus interviews. I advise students to avoid clichéd and overused essay topics. I encourage them to write and rewrite essays until they reflect the best the student has to offer.”
“Often, I help keep WWIII out of the house. This is a very stressful time for teenagers. They are feeling a lot of pressure from both their peers and parents. Lowering the stress levels for everyone is very important. I arrange meetings at convenient times – after sports and clubs, in the evenings and on weekends. We meet as often as needed until everyone is comfortable.” Sending your child off to college is one of the most rewarding experiences a parent can have. Using an admissions consultant may make this transition a smoother and easier process for everyone involved.
