Preparing for college can be a time of profound growth and learning instead of one marked by stress and anxiety.
Stress. Pressure. Comparison. Fear. Perfectionism. Anxiety. Confusion.
Too often words like these are used to describe preparing for college and the college admissions process. Having worked with hundreds of students through all stages of the college admissions process, I’ve heard these words before. And I get it. Going to college involves big transitions, lots of significant decisions, and a hefty investment of time and resources. And that’s before media, family, friends, and society weighs in on what you “should” do.
I’m here to tell you that it doesn’t have to be that way.
Flipping the Script
You can face the college admissions process as an adventure, a journey. As an opportunity for growth. The figurative ball is in your court at the start and at the end of the process, in addition to much of the time in between. Identifying your priorities and learning the college landscape removes the unnecessary uncertainty and puts you back in the drivers seat. If you have a school counselor, a computer with internet, and the motivation to figure the rest out– you can navigate a successful, and perhaps even enjoyable, college admissions journey. A journey in which you clarify your values, interests, and long-term goals.
As with many journeys, there are benefits to working with an experienced, trustworthy guide. Someone who knows the trail inside and out, has been through the road blocks that can come up, and can draw your attention to things you may not realize on your own. With a guide who has studied the maps, knows the weather report, and is competent to assist travelers like you on paths like this.
This is my role. As your guide, I can identify schools or programs for your consideration that are off the main route. Working with you, I can encourage and coach the personal reflection that is essential for finding the best college match. Using your interests and needs, I can clarify the direction so that your time and energy isn’t lost learning about routes that aren’t applicable for your journey. I have dedicated my professional life to knowing these trails and how to assist students like you in navigating your own unique paths. I can’t think of a role I could enjoy more than guiding students through this important time of figuring out steps after high school.
This time in your life is definitely exciting. But it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. I promise.
Interested in enjoying your journey? Let’s talk.
