What our parents want to know
Do you conduct assessments? I’ve heard about things like the MBTI and the Strong Interest Inventory.
Yes - but we use our own tools. While assessments like Strong (Strong Interest Inventory) and MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator) are incredible and valuable tools, we do not use them in this course for a variety of reasons. First, we’re not sure that they would definitively change the college search and application process. Second, and perhaps more relevant here, we have developed our own intake assessments after serving hundreds of clients. In our opinion, these intake forms help students gain clarity and direction to guide them through the process.
My teen’s high school counselor tells us not to “waste money” on admissions consulting classes. What are your thoughts on this?
Depending upon your teen, the school, and the counselor, that might be the case! We’ve found, however, that even the best high school college counselors carry heavy caseloads and are often overwhelmed by the sheer number of students they serve. Multiply that by the number of applications each student submits (often 10 or more!) and you have a mathematical equation that often doesn’t add up. Simply put, students need more direction to compile exceptional applications that will stand out in the process.
Can’t my teen just search the internet to get this information?
Yes they can, but like all information online, some is accurate and some isn’t. That’s why in addition to the videos and worksheets, which are an integral part of the curriculum, our real value is in the group and one-on-one (virtual) meetings included with each module. Those interactions allow us to work directly with your teen to answer their questions, and give specific advice on their essays and applications so they’re not just taking advice from cyberspace.
My teen (and I) have no idea where to begin! Can you help?
Yes! That’s why we created Applying to College 123! The modules are designed to meet you where you are in the process and to provide you with the guidance - and confidence - you need to succeed.
My teen only needs help with certain parts of the application process. Do I have to buy the whole course?
Nope! Applying to College 123 is unique in that you can work with us on those parts of the applications YOU choose to. No more and no less. In this sense, you exercise agency over the process.
Will my teen get any one-on-one time with you?
Yes. Each student will receive a private, 30 minute video consultation with one of us for each module in which they are enrolled. (In Module 4: Writing the College Essay there are two 30 minute sessions with us, one to brainstorm the topic and another to review the draft essay.) We charge $200 per hour for any additional time required, thus these 30 minute sessions are an exceptional value and bonus.
I want to be involved in the process. Do you have ways to help me with that?
Each module includes a Parent Overview so you have a thorough understanding of the goals and objectives for that module. We will also offer live online “Parent Coffee Chats” where you can come with your questions and concerns. Collaboration will enrich the experience for everyone, and we welcome your input!
What’s your success rate? Do you guarantee results?
As members of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA), our Code of Ethics prohibits us from guaranteeing results. And rightfully so! One need not look any further than the recent Varsity Blues scandal to realize why consultants who guarantee results should be avoided at all costs. Success, on the other hand, is a more subjective concept. We judge our success by our students’ satisfaction with our services. In the years we have been serving clients, we’re proud to say that our clients have been very happy indeed!
My teen is sick of learning virtually. How will you keep it interesting?
That is the $64,000 question! By using a synchronous and asynchronous format, we’re hoping that students can engage when they are most willing to do so. By adding movie clips, case studies, and online exercises, we hope to keep students as engaged as we possibly can.
How are you different from all of the other college application workshops and bootcamps out there?
Our course truly is the first of its kind. Because it’s asynchronous and synchronous, students retain a measure of control over when they’re “in class.” In addition, we provide private, one-on-one consulting sessions for each student. Finally, you can purchase only those modules that you need or want, which is unique among courses.
My teen has special needs, will your course cover that?
While we do not hold ourselves out as special education experts, we do realize the importance of researching things like college academic resource centers and counseling centers. We’ll show students where to look for this information but encourage parents to speak with their teen’s treatment providers, special education teachers, and other relevant stakeholders.
If I feel like my teen needs additional time with you, is that available?
Absolutely. If, after participating in a module, you feel that your teen would benefit from additional individualized advising sessions, please reach out to us and we can discuss options to purchase hourly blocks of time.
I’m worried that my teen is completely unengaged in the process. Can you help?
This is a tough one, we won’t sugar coat it. While we can and do try our absolute best to gain the trust and engagement of students, a minimum amount of “buy-in” on the part of your student is essential. For this reason, we ask you to fill out our brief survey and chat with us prior to enrolling your teen in the course.
My teen is an anxious wreck about this process. Can you help?
We will certainly try! A certain amount of anxiety around this process is, sadly, to be expected these days, but we believe we have strategies that can help. Have you ever looked at a task and felt completely paralyzed by the enormity of it? So have we! That’s why we do our best to break the process down into manageable pieces. When we do this, it doesn’t seem quite so scary. Students also feel more in control, confident and energized. (Please note: true anxiety - and other mental health concerns - are medical conditions that require professional treatment outside of our realm of expertise. Please be mindful of your teen’s specific situation and seek appropriate treatment where warranted.)