reported by Lipman Hearne, a national marketing and communication firm, assisted by the National Research Center for College and University Admissons. High Achieving Students were defined as students scoring a 25 or over on the ACT, or an 1150 or over on the SAT 1 (1600 scale). The myth that only “elite” students headed to the Ivy League hire college consultants is at an end. (And there are plenty of students who have high scores but do not achieve academically in high school, these students often have tremendous potential to do well in college).
Jay Mathews, the Post author of Admissions 101 Blog, wonders if consultants are worth it since they do not have a great influence on the “decision” regarding which school the student attends. Mark Sklarow, Executive Director of the IECA, responds to this on his IECA Blog:
“…he (Jay Mathews) misses the point. A consultant should NOT be influential in the final decision-making phase; rather the consultant’s value comes earlier, when creating a list that explores a student’s needs, desires, interests, preferences, along with the consultant’s extensive first-hand knowledge of colleges. Once that list is created, a great consultant, a member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association, to be sure, seeks to empower students to conduct their own research, explore the possibilities, visit campuses, and ultimately make their own decision. The consultant does create that initial list, but then acts as a coach and advisor, not the “decider.”
Mark is absolutely correct. The key value of a college consultant happens long before that final decision is made. (I am a proud member of the IECA!). Jay correctly points out that the most important factor in the student’s decision is the campus tour. However, who guided the student to the list of schools on the visit and application list? Finding the right fit is what consultants do best.
I would also like to point out that it is not only “high achieving” students who can benefit from a consultant. Students who have learning disabilities, unique interests, or who are still seeking their path are prime candidates for a consultant. I love the students who come to me with no clue of who they are or what they want to do. I use several assessments and methods to help the student understand their personality, their talents, their aptitudes, and I love opening new possibilities to them. It is as rewarding for me as it is for the students and families I work with.
