My Mission
Thank you for your interest in my college planning services. The main focus of my business is helping high school students and their parents and guardians successfully navigate the sometimes overwhelming and confusing college planning process.
Why Hire a College Planning Consultant?
There are many benefits to hiring me, a professional college planning consultant. First and foremost, I am very knowledgeable about the details of the college planning process. When you and your student work with me, I will ensure that you are fully aware of what needs to be done and when it needs to be done. I offer excellent client care and personalized service year-round. When a young person is preparing for college, it can be an emotionally-charged time for everyone in the family. As a third and neutral party, I help ease the overall stress and anxiety of the college planning process for both students and parents. I provide solid, fact-based advice in a friendly and professional manner.
College Planning and Applications
Explore majors
Research, compare and select colleges
Application and essay writing
Financial aid
Organize timeline and task lists
Personality and Interest Assessments
Determine strengths, talents and goals
Provide a bridge between self-discovery and college and career pursuits
Guide and facilitate personalized action plans
Career Exploration and Preparation
Resume and cover letter writing
Professional portfolio development
Interviewing and networking skills
Job seeking skills
All my services are provided in accordance with the ethical standards and practices set by the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC).
Time spent with Heidi was truly a gift to our family…
…a valuable investment in our son's education. Beginning in junior year of high school, regularly scheduled meetings guided him and helped keep him on track. Heidi's knowledge and insights prompted family conversations that took place between their meetings, which we otherwise would not have had. Her customized counseling saved us time and energy, lessened our anxiety, and ultimately helped him develop a list of colleges with 'good fit'. We couldn't be happier with her expertise and thoughtful approach, and we wholeheartedly recommend her to any family seeking support for their college-bound student!
-The McDowell Family
About Me
I help students find colleges that meet their academic, personal, and career goals and I support parents and guardians in understanding how college financial aid works.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are always many questions when preparing for college. Here are some frequently-asked questions about preparation, the process, and how to get started. Smile and take a deep breath. You are about to start an exciting journey!
For Parents
Are there things I can do to help my student in the college planning process?
It’s not uncommon to feel helpless or frustrated as a parent of a student preparing to go to college. However, there are a variety of things you can do that will help you and your student navigate the college planning process. One helpful tool is to hang or post a large family calendar with important dates, such as college application deadlines, indicated on the calendar. Parents can also help plan the logistics of college visits for and with their students. And, though it may sometimes appear that your student does not welcome your help or advice, most teenagers appreciate kind, encouraging words and knowing that their parents care about their college plans.
For Students
How many colleges should I apply to?
Seven to nine colleges is usually the recommended number. It really depends on you and the types of colleges in which you are applying. Ideally, all the colleges on your list are colleges you’d be happy to attend. Be sure to have 3-4 “target” schools on your list. “Target” schools are colleges that have reasonable acceptance rates, usually between 50-75%. Much will depend on your academic record and other “credentials” such as special talents or extracurricular activities. I think it’s a good idea to have 2-3 “reach” schools and 2-3 “likely” schools on your list, as well. “Reach” schools are colleges that you are excited about attending, but your chances of acceptance are on the low side. “Likely” schools are colleges in which your chances of admission are 75% or higher.