Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it of value to use an independent educational counselor rather than just relying on the high school guidance counselor?
The guidance counselor is an essential part of the college planning and application process as they are responsible for sending the high school transcript to the colleges on the student’s list and they write a letter of recommendation. However they have large caseloads of students and, with their many other academic duties and availability only during school hours, spend on average less than 40 minutes on college advising with each student over the four years.
Here at College Docs our consultants spend 40 hours or more with each student for more personal and in-depth knowledge. We limit the number of students we work with each year so we can provide the individualized attention that applicants need and deserve. We do not rely on computer-generated lists. We get to know students’ academic interests; learning styles; unique skills, abilities and experiences; their strengths and weaknesses; their fears; and their dreams. We develop a Personalized College Action Plan unique to each of our students. We visit numerous colleges and universities and speak to many college admissions officers and use our extensive knowledge of special college programs to create each student’s list of best fit schools.
The guidance counselor is an essential part of the college planning and application process as they are responsible for sending the high school transcript to the colleges on the student’s list and they write a letter of recommendation. However they have large caseloads of students and, with their many other academic duties and availability only during school hours, spend on average less than 40 minutes on college advising with each student over the four years.
Here at College Docs our consultants spend 40 hours or more with each student for more personal and in-depth knowledge. We limit the number of students we work with each year so we can provide the individualized attention that applicants need and deserve. We do not rely on computer-generated lists. We get to know students’ academic interests; learning styles; unique skills, abilities and experiences; their strengths and weaknesses; their fears; and their dreams. We develop a Personalized College Action Plan unique to each of our students. We visit numerous colleges and universities and speak to many college admissions officers and use our extensive knowledge of special college programs to create each student’s list of best fit schools.
What are other advantages of utilizing an independent college consultant?
Planning and applying to college can be a very stressful experience, especially in a competitive environment. At College Docs we work in collaboration with the student and parents to reduce stress and anxiety. We help parents extricate themselves from the power-struggle with their student in attempts to get them to be productive and keep to deadlines. We are up to date on college trends and requirements so parents don’t have to rely on old information from their time at college or possible misinformation from other sources. Meetings are arranged around each family’s schedule for their convenience. Dr. Boudin and Dr. Franklin work directly with each student to provide professional and confidential mentorship to assist with the student’s independence and success.
Planning and applying to college can be a very stressful experience, especially in a competitive environment. At College Docs we work in collaboration with the student and parents to reduce stress and anxiety. We help parents extricate themselves from the power-struggle with their student in attempts to get them to be productive and keep to deadlines. We are up to date on college trends and requirements so parents don’t have to rely on old information from their time at college or possible misinformation from other sources. Meetings are arranged around each family’s schedule for their convenience. Dr. Boudin and Dr. Franklin work directly with each student to provide professional and confidential mentorship to assist with the student’s independence and success.
Is it worth the money to hire a college admissions consultant?
People make choices all the time about where they spend their money. Many parents see value in paying for opportunities for their children such as summer camp and enrichment programs; private music lessons; sports travel teams and outside coaching; extra-curricular school trips; art classes; academic tutors; language programs; SAT prep courses; outside drama/dance instruction; community service and study abroad travel; and pre-college enrichment programs. Utilizing these resources is an investment in your child and his/her future.
Working with an independent counselor on college planning is another opportunity for parents to maximize a student’s chances for successful admission to colleges of their choice. With a best-fit college, students can thrive and graduate prepared to pursue their careers. In addition, at College Docs we have found that the investment made has often been paid back three-fold or more in the very first year from scholarships offered by colleges. If you are the type of parent who goes above and beyond for your child then this service can be greatly beneficial to you and your family.
People make choices all the time about where they spend their money. Many parents see value in paying for opportunities for their children such as summer camp and enrichment programs; private music lessons; sports travel teams and outside coaching; extra-curricular school trips; art classes; academic tutors; language programs; SAT prep courses; outside drama/dance instruction; community service and study abroad travel; and pre-college enrichment programs. Utilizing these resources is an investment in your child and his/her future.
Working with an independent counselor on college planning is another opportunity for parents to maximize a student’s chances for successful admission to colleges of their choice. With a best-fit college, students can thrive and graduate prepared to pursue their careers. In addition, at College Docs we have found that the investment made has often been paid back three-fold or more in the very first year from scholarships offered by colleges. If you are the type of parent who goes above and beyond for your child then this service can be greatly beneficial to you and your family.
