Frequently Asked Questions
| Why should I 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 college admissions 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 student 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? My Comprehensive Services program has no limit on meetings. 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 know people in college admission offices but the short answer is NO. No ethical consultant will use influence to get a student 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? How much do you charge? I have just revised my 2012 Scope of Services, taking into consideration the economy and the need to provide the most affordable service I can. Payment Plans are available. Here are my 2012 services and costs: SERVICES OFFERED Consultation For parents and students who wish to discuss college options. Prior to the consultation the student and parents will be asked to provide a history of the student which includes performance (grades or transcript), standardized testing, academic schedule, extracurricular activities and community service. We will discuss your student’s personality, interests, any learning differences or challenges, and the assessments will help me understand what type of programs, majors, financial aid, and college environments might be best for the student and the family. Students who find a good fit between themselves and the college they attend are more likely to have a successful college experience, and are better prepared to take on their careers. • $250.00 includes preparation (examining transcripts, testing, etc.), a one hour consultation with student and parents and a follow-up by telephone, email, or personal visit. • Interpretation and explanation of another professional’s evaluation is $125.00 per hour. Comprehensive Program We will discuss academic planning, community service, and summer enrichment activities, start school searching, and students and parents will receive help and support. I will assist student in signing up online for college and scholarship services. Student will take personality and career assessments, major/career interest inventories and learning style assessments to assist in the research of potential majors and careers based on the student’s interests and abilities.
Unlimited student appointments, whatever is necessary (within reason) for the student • $3500.00 (250.00 consultation goes toward this fee) Monthly payment plans are available. Assessments The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator administration and interpretation * $250.00 Major/Career Inventories, School Match Indicator Assessment * $100.00 each These assessments are extremely helpful when exploring majors and future careers for students. They also help in determining what size/type college is right for each individual. College Match List and Assessments MBTI, Career Profile, School Match Inventory and an initial college match list of 20 colleges/universities. This package does not include college application assistance, but such assistance is available at a maximum of 8 appointments at the hourly rate of 125.00 per hour. • 1600.00 *250.00 consultation fee is not included in this package. *Parents and student agree to advise Tam of which colleges are applied to and what the results are. Hourly Rate Meetings beyond the initial Consultation for those who do not wish to utilize full services but wish to receive advice on college admission strategies, researching Summer Programs, or planning. Billable time includes all meetings (in-person or videochat), email and phone communication, and information and essay review. • $150.00 per hour Speaking Engagements/Presentations (I love doing coffees and presentations at your home, church, youth group, etc) • 100.00 FREE TO NON PROFITS College Visitation Services At the request of the parents, I am happy to work with you and your student to plan college visits, set up interviews, and/or to accompany the student(s) on the trip. • When accompanying your student on the trip, I charge travel expenses and 250.00 per day. • Trip planning is $75.00 per hour. |
| I follow the IECA Principles of Good Practice |
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| Services Offered |
