Don’t panic…it’s not a trick question. It is however, a very individual one that only you can answer for yourself. There is no magic formula that will guarantee your student’s admission to their dream school, but there are experts who have gone through the process many times and are up to date on the latest trends in admissions. Several factors should be considered while making this decision. Take a look at some and see if they apply to you. If so, keep reading for a quick guide on what questions to ask as you look for a counselor that is right for you.
Factor #1: Limited High School Resources
Guidance counselors play an integral role in your child’s high school experience; however, their time is unfortunately limited. The National Association of College Admissions Counseling’s (NACAC) 2018 report indicates that the average US guidance counselor is responsible for 400+ students and is involved in various activities such as attendance issues, bullying, and drug and alcohol abuse. It goes further to state that public high school counselors only spend about 21% of their time on college advising activities. Private high school counselors spend about 47%. Supplementing their work with an independent counselor may enhance your student’s experience.
Factor #2: Big Changes and So Much Information
The college admissions and financial aid processes have changed significantly over the past few decades. Often families feel uncomfortable and even overwhelmed by the amount of information out there and experience relief when guided by an expert in the field. An independent counselor can help students narrow their search, understand applications, provide essay tips and coordinate campus visits. On the financial side, they can guide you through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), provide school cost comparisons, identify scholarship opportunities, and analyze award letters. Having someone focus on your family’s unique wants and needs may not only streamline the process, but also reduce overall stress.
Factor #3: Special Interests and Circumstances
Every student is different. With over 5,000 colleges and universities in the US, the shift in the college search has become less about determining where a student can “get in” and more about finding the right fit. Learning styles, social preferences, uncommon majors, and athletic and artistic interests should all be considered. Independent counselors have visited numerous colleges and can offer families reliable information to make informed decisions. Furthermore, these experts stay current in admission trends and are often well aware of details specific schools look for in their applicants.
Convinced? Hiring an independent counselor is not for everyone but if you are thinking about it, do some homework. When researching counselors, consider their education, experience and affiliations. Memberships to professional organizations allow counselors to stay up to date in the field and maintain a code of ethics.
Top 10 questions to ask when selecting an independent counselor:
- Are you affiliated with any professional organizations? Examples include:
- IECA – Independent Educational Consultants Association
- NACAC – National Association for College Admissions Counseling (or a NACAC regional affiliate such as NYSACAC)
- HECA – Higher Education Consultants Association
- How long have you been in business as an independent educational consultant?
- What is your training and education?
- How many colleges have you visited? How often?
- Do you participate in professional development on a regular basis to keep up with regional and national trends in the field?
- How do you help with personal statements, essays and supplements? (Only the student should actually write the essays.)
- Do you have any specialized training? (Such as working with students with learning disabilities, athletes, artists, etc.)
- Do you offer any guarantees of admission to a school or receipt of scholarship funds? (Beware of any guarantees!)
- Do you ever accept any form of compensation from a school or program in exchange for placement? (They should not!)
- Do you offer a contract of services specifically stating the services my student will receive and all associated fees?
Elaine McMahon is an Independent College Counselor and the owner of RZE College Counseling located in Goldens Bridge, NY. For more information about her practice, please visit her website rzecollegecounseling.com.