Question 1

How do you differ from a high school counselor?

Accepted Answer

High school counselors are a valuable resource, and I encourage all students to build a relationship with theirs. However, I also know the demands of this profession, especially in a public school setting. School counselors are responsible for the students' academic, personal/social, and college/career needs, and they often have very high caseloads (the national average is 424). As an IEC, I meet with students and their families at times convenient to them (often evenings and weekends), providing access when school counselors are unavailable. I’m also able to only take on a certain number of students to ensure I will be able to provide your child with the necessary attention and support.

Question 2

Do you guarantee admission to colleges or universities?

Accepted Answer

No. As a member of HECA (Higher Education Consultants Association) and IECA (Independent Educational Consultants Association), I abide by the HECA Code of Ethics and IECA Principles of Good Practice. This means I do not guarantee admission to colleges or universities, nor do I accept any reward from any college or university for the referral or recruitment of any student. My services are strictly advisory.

Question 3

Do you provide SAT/ACT tutoring?

Accepted Answer

No, but I have a great list of referrals I'm happy to share if you’re interested.

Question 4

What are your hours?

Accepted Answer

Because I need to meet with students when they aren't in class, I often work evenings and weekends. I've found that most students don't want to meet on Friday afternoons during the school year, so I don't hold appointments during this time. However, during the summer and school holidays, I am available during daytime hours. All of my families can schedule appointments through Calendly at convenient times for them.

Question 5

How often do you meet with students?

Accepted Answer

It completely depends on the needs of the student. For my comprehensive students, I meet with them every 2-4 weeks during their junior years. Then, from the summer through the fall of their senior years, we meet weekly until all applications are submitted. Most comprehensive students work with me for at least 30 hours, but I do not cap the hours for m,y comprehensive package. Small package and hourly students set the pace of their work and self-schedule sessions. Some students want to meet 2-3 times in the same week to complete their tasks quickly while others prefer to spread out their appointments.

Question 6

Where are you located?

Accepted Answer

While I live in Colorado Springs, CO, I conduct all of my college consulting services virtually through Zoom. This allows me to work with high school students from all over the country. In fact, I've had clients from 34 high schools in 6 states.

Question 7

When is the best time to start working with you?

Accepted Answer

Ideally, I prefer to start with students at the beginning of their junior year. This allows us to work through the comprehensive package at a manageable pace. I will be able to really get to know the student before diving into the college list. However, if space is available, I take on students just for essay work in the fall of their senior years.

Question 8

How does your pricing work?

Accepted Answer

I believe that transparency is crucial, so all of my current prices are listed on my website. I offer payment plans for both the comprehensive and the Junior Year Jump Start packages and bill monthly for hourly clients. Hourly rates increase as we get closer to application deadlines, but families are locked in once they sign a contract.

Question 9

Do you have any contractors or additional essay editors?

Accepted Answer

No. All of my students work directly with me. This helps me get to know the student over time, which helps when the student begins writing their essays. However, I do have a strong group of colleagues I consult with regularly through my involvement with HECA, IECA, and the College Consultants of Colorado.

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Connect With Me:

Phone: 770-654-9136

Email: Allison@GrandFitEducation.com

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