COLLEGE ADVENTURES
Choose Your Path
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why should you utilize the services of an independent college consultant?
The college selection and admission process is vastly different now from what it was when you were a student!
The good news is that our children have incredible opportunities and choices, but the process has become
complicated and competitive. Most students and families can benefit from the assistance of an experienced
consultant who can clarify their options and provide insight into the right college fit for the student. Many
students need more individualized attention than their high school counselor can give them. The college
search, selection, and application process requires organization and a sound strategy, and a consultant can
help your student “own” the process.
What does the process involve? What happens?
In the introductory phase, I meet with students and parents and get to know them. We
discuss the students’ goals and interests, and I assess their academic record, extracurricular activities, and any
diagnostic or educational testing available. I utilize several assessment instruments which are geared toward
understanding personality type, aptitudes, and interests. Based on this information, I recommend which
standardized tests to take and when to take
them. I introduce the student and parents to NAVIANCE Family Connection, the premiere management system
for college advising.
In the selection phase, I present the family with a list of schools and explain why they
might be good choices. During the selection phase, families gain insight into the
admissions process and gain a better understanding of the different criteria that colleges
use in assessing applications. I prepare students for campus visits and interviews. The student and I work
through the list, ultimately narrowing down the choices to a manageable number of applications.
In the planning phase, I guide the student through the actual application. We discuss
teacher recommendations, test scores, and transcripts. I supervise the essay writing
process--from what subject to write about and how to approach it--to a final critique. All items are proofed and
no application is submitted without my review.
After the schools make their decisions, in the acceptance phase, I continue to meet
with the families to discuss the best school to attend.
Am I limited to a certain number of hours with you?
No. Each student is an individual and needs a different amount of attention. We meet as often as a student
needs to, and I am available to parents through phone, appointments, email and NAVIANCE’s Family
Connection.
Do you have contacts or influence with admissions offices that can help a client gain admission?
All consultants have contacts in college admission offices but no ethical consultant will promise you they have
“pull” to get you admitted. I work with the student to find the right college fit, one where the student can thrive
and flourish.
Do you fill out financial aid applications?
No. I have an understanding of the financial aid process, but filling out the forms is best handled by the family
and their financial advisors.
What other questions do parents or students typically ask?
When should I take the SAT Reasoning Test (formerly the SAT I)?
Should I take the ACT?
Should I take the SAT subject tests? If so, which subject tests and when?
Should I take advanced placement courses?
How much influence do the colleges place on extra-curricular activities?
How important are athletics?
Should I have an influential family friend write a letter of recommendation?
To how many colleges should I apply?
Should I apply early decision?
What can I expect at an interview?
What is the difference between a big, state supported university and a small private
college?
Is it OK if I don’t know what I want to major in?
And many, many others!!!
For more information, please go to my website at www.collegeadventures.net, or feel free to call or email me!
Tam Warner Minton, M.S.
13388 Meadowside Drive
Dallas, Texas 75240
972.387.1407 voice/972.991.8104 fax
t.warnerminton@sbcglobal.net
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