Phases of the College Process

The college application process can be divided into three phases which overlap and circle back on each other until a final college choice is made. My program will guide you through each phase with structured activities and advice based upon 35 years of experience in the field.

Reflection Phase:

It is essential to know oneself before a college match can be made. Beginning with honest self-assessment is the key to success in college admissions. Decisions about where to apply, how to present oneself in college applications and interviews, and a final determination of where to enroll all stem from lessons learned in this phase.

  • We’ll begin our work with a writing exercise designed to promote self-reflection and identify the academic and extracurricular interests and goals that will guide your college search.

    In-depth interviews with me will increase your self-awareness while building the strong communication skills necessary to tell your story to colleges when you apply.

  • Meetings in this initial phase will focus on identifying and prioritizing college preferences as well as goal-setting and step-by-step management of the search and application process.

Exploration Phase:

There’s no substitute for thorough research as a means to identify institutions that match a student’s stated criteria. Campus visits, websites, guidebooks, and interaction with admissions officers all offer the opportunity to learn about the many options available. Skillful use of these sources of information will help to develop a college list well-suited to the individual student.

  • I’ll provide you with an initial list of colleges that align with your interests and preferences then collaborate with you to fine-tune that list. I have first-hand knowledge of hundreds of colleges that will help you to develop and refine your list. My college suggestions and advice will ensure that your final list is balanced for selectivity to ensure your success, has affordable options for your family, and meets your stated goals.

  • I’ll help you sort through the vast information about colleges that is available online, minimizing confusion and leveraging the most reliable sources to gain essential information about each college you consider.

  • Advice on how to navigate college visits and help planning college tours will be included as well.

Execution Phase:

Writing compelling applications requires leveraging work from the Reflection and Exploration phases to make a case for why each institution on the list is a good match and a place where the student will be a positive and impactful addition to the community.

  • We will begin this phase by developing a detailed schedule for application completion that aligns with college deadlines.

    Advice on application strategies, such as which deadlines and applications to use, whom to ask for letters of recommendation, and whether or not to submit standardized test scores will also be part of this phase.

  • I will coach you in selecting a compelling topic for your personal statement and provide feedback on drafts until a polished final product is ready for submission.

    Together we’ll brainstorm ideas for each college-specific essay required, and I will help you to fine-tune your responses to all writing prompts as you complete each application.

  • If interviews are required or recommended, I will prepare you for them with mock interview practice sessions.